Challenge: Persistent maritime surface sensor system

Challenge Statement

The Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces (DND/CAF) require an integrated and persistent sensor, information, and decision system that provides indications and warnings of surface and near-surface threats in Canada’s three oceans maritime estate.

Background and Context

DND/CAF requires a persistent, effective, reliable and secure system capable of detecting and continuously tracking a full-spectrum of threats in the maritime environment including, but not limited to, small maritime vessels (65 feet or less), low-observable cruise missiles, small and micro Unmanned Aircraft Systems, and other small radar cross-section objects, at a sufficient range that permits an appropriate, scalable response.

Desired Outcomes and Considerations

The goal of the challenge is to enhance maritime domain awareness. The national commands and agencies responsible for maritime continental defense and security need sufficient time to conduct threat assessments and effectively respond to threats in the maritime environment. Innovative solutions are sought that will support the DND/CAF’s ability to reliably detect, characterize and track objects within the maritime approaches to Canada. Of particular interest are innovative solutions that bolster defense and security in northern regions of Canada.

Research, analysis, concepts and technologies are sought that address, but are not limited to, one or more of the following characteristics associated with an enhanced maritime domain awareness system:

• Capable of unhindered operation regardless of environmental and weather conditions, including, but not limited to, high Arctic conditions (e.g., low temperature and low light);
• Capable of extended operation in remote locations with power storage capabilities;
• Flexibility to adjust to changing threat characteristics and behaviours, such as mode of operation, physical properties and spectrum of emissions;
• Enable prompt and reliable detection of relevant objects in order to permit sufficient time for threat characterization, assessment and response;
• Capable of detecting and tracking multiple concurrent objects and anomalies;
• Allow for persistent tracking of maritime surface and near-surface threats in the maritime environment (i.e., enduring or prolonged presence covering an area of interest);
• Have the ability to maintain contact of maritime surface and near-surface threats (i.e., continuous tracking) by some means (e.g., radar, visual, infrared, etc.) as required; and
• Allow for trusted and secure real-time data transmission and communication of data and information to appropriate agencies in order to permit near-real time decision-making.