Fusion of IFF and radar data

A set of algorithms which fuse radar data and IFF data is described. The fusion is accomplished using a contact-to-track vs. a track-to-track fusion architecture. The algorithms are extensible to fuse multiple radars and multiple IFF sensors. The preprocessing algorithms which are used to remove false radar target returns are described. The preprocessing of the IFF data is described. The fusion algorithms described include sensor alignment, contact-to-track correlation, track initiation, track update, and track hypothesis processing. The interaction of the radar and IFF sensors is also described. Fusion of two sensors of different type (e.g., a transponder and conventional radar) provides significant improvement in overall system tracking and target identification capabilities. The fusion of IFF and radar data provides data not obtainable by either sensor alone. The IFF sensor provides target height which is used to improve track accuracy of a 2D (range-bearing) radar. The radar provides consistent and accurate bearing and range measurements which are not always available from the IFF sensor (i.e., from hostile targets). The radar generates detections and tracks on unfriendly targets. Finally, the radar tracks are used as a data base from which automatic interrogation of new tracks is done.