Objective

Advancements in unexploded ordnance (UXO) detection and discrimination technologies are necessary to support the operation, restoration, and transfer of the Department of Defense's ranges. UXO characterization technologies can be affected by variations in site terrain, geology, vegetative cover, and weather conditions encountered. The establishment of standardized UXO technology demonstration sites will allow users and developers to define the range of applicability of specific UXO technologies, gather data on sensor and system performance, compare results, and document realistic cost and performance information.

The Standardized UXO Technology Demonstration Site Program will provide the UXO technology developer with "turn key" standardized sites for UXO sensor technology testing and demonstration.

Technical Approach

In order to satisfy both the research and development community and the technology demonstration community, the standardized sites will consist of three areas including a calibration lane, a blind grid, and an open field. The calibration lane will allow demonstrators to test their equipment, build a site library, document signal strength, and address site-specific variables. The blind grid allows the demonstrator to showcase the sensors on their system without platform, coordinate system, or operational concerns. The open field will document the performance of the entire system in actual range operations by presenting special challenges including wooded areas, mogul/crater areas, adjacent power lines, steep terrain, desert extremes, and boulder fields. The Standardized UXO Technology Demonstration Site Program involves collaboration of several organizations and will build on the experience and expertise of each of the participants to establish realistic and cost effective standardized demonstration sites.

Results

Two sites including Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG) in Maryland and Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) in Arizona have been established. The APG site opened in August 2002, while the YPG site opened in January 2003.

Benefits

This program will ensure that critical UXO technology performance parameters such as detection capability, false alarm rates, discrimination, reacquisition, and system efficiency are determined through standardized test methodologies, procedures, and facilities. Other products resulting from the program include a screening matrix of system performance, a series of standardized site protocols, a standardized target repository, a technology-screening matrix, and a variety of technology transfer and marketing materials.

  • Standardized Test Site,