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Area scanning sensors are used to augment the covert
Unattended Ground Sensors, (UGS) wide area coverage and automatic
spotting of moving objects over a wide area. These visible sensors are
having important deterrent effect on hostile infiltrators. In use are
elevated sensors, covering a wider area with observation through
electro-optical and radar surveillance means. One such system is the
Persistent Threat Detection System (PTDS), already deployed under a
Quick Reaction Capability (QRC) to Iraq in September 2004. The system
uses a tethered aerostat, equipped with a high-resolution
Electro-Optic/Infrared (EO/IR) payload. It integrates IR and radar
sensors cueing the aerostat camera to provide near-real-time "eyes on
target." PTDS utilizes the Inter-Brigade Communication System (IBCS),
which provides the communication backbone and networking capabilities
of the system and will be integrated into the Persistent Surveillance
Dissemination System of Systems (PSDS2) once fielded.
 A different category of unattended sensors employs scanning sensors,
including EO/IR and ground surveillance radars. Such sensors are
scanning a larger area, automatically detecting moving targets. The
coverage and distances of such sensors depend on the technology used
such as, FLIR sensitivity, radar transmitted power and sensitivity,
signal processing etc. These sensors are commonly used for perimeter
protection, border security and battlefield surveillance. When
operated individually, EO/IR systems could suffer from sensitivity
degradation under certain conditions, while radar has its own weak
spots, particularly in the rejection of false alarms and low velocity
targets. Imaging and radar sensors can be integrated with very high
probability of detection under all weather conditions. Scanning
sensors can be used to cue adjacent remotely operated weapon stations,
therefore rapidly closing a sensor-shooter loop engaging time
sensitive targets. When a more flexible response is called for, such
systems can be integrated with autonomous patrol vehicles, or manned
patrols, to establish an effective rapid-response. Other
topics covered in this feature include:
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