Defence thin client computers

The Australian Department of Defence is reported to be planning to deploy 500 thin client computers by the end of 2011. Defence CTO Matt Yannopoulous mentioned thin clients in his talk at the ACS Canberra branch conference recently. Thin clients also feature in the "Defence Next Generation Desktop Project" (issued 22 April 2010).

It should be noted that thin client computing is not new to defence. Melbourne based electronics manufacturer Labtam, produced advanced thin client workstations (then called "X terminals") in the 1990s. These were sold to the Department of Defence and the ANU. The business was later sold to Tektronix Inc. IBM had a contract to supply Defence with hardware, but the Australian made units were superior. I was working in HQ ADF at the time and recall I recall writing a speech for the then Minister for Defence Support, about these terminals being made in Victoria (which the Minister's office liked).

Breakfast at O'Connor

A cliché of 1960s Hollywood comedies is an exotic neighbour climbing through the the window of your apartment (Barefoot in the Park, 1967). Ideally you are a struggling writer (Breakfast at Tiffany's, 1961). I thought this fanciful, until it happened this morning.

Interrupted while making some changes to my latest book, I opened the door of my Smart Apartment to an Amazon. This was a neighbour dressed their Australian Defence Force issue combat boots and camouflage uniform. Back from a run and forgetting her key, she swung out my window and disappeared from view. I assume she arrived safely, as I did not hear a thud.

This makes me think:

1. Those sitcoms are not so fanciful afterall,
2. With resourceful personnel like this, Australia's enemies need beware.

Australia and Cyber-warfare Book on Attacks from China

The book "Australia and Cyber-warfare" is very useful for putting the new Australian Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC) into perspective. The section on "China’s cyber-attack capability" is relevant to Google's recent allegations of attacks from China.

There are very well formatted free web and mobile versions of the book available online, as well as a print on demand edition.

Australia and Cyber-warfare

Gary Waters, Desmond Ball and Ian Dudgeon

Canberra Papers on Strategy and Defence No. 168

ISBN 9781921313790 (Print version) $19.95 (GST inclusive)
ISBN 9781921313806 (Online)
Published July 2008

This book explores Australia’s prospective cyber-warfare requirements and challenges. It describes the current state of planning and thinking within the Australian Defence Force with respect to Network Centric Warfare, and discusses the vulnerabilities that accompany the use by Defence of the National Information Infrastructure (NII), as well as Defence’s responsibility for the protection of the NII. It notes the multitude of agencies concerned in various ways with information security, and argues that mechanisms are required to enhance coordination between them. It also argues that Australia has been laggard with respect to the development of offensive cyber-warfare plans and capabilities. Finally, it proposes the establishment of an Australian Cyber-warfare Centre responsible for the planning and conduct of both the defensive and offensive dimensions of cyber-warfare, for developing doctrine and operational concepts, and for identifying new capability requirements. It argues that the matter is urgent in order to ensure that Australia will have the necessary capabilities for conducting technically and strategically sophisticated cyber-warfare activities by the 2020s.

The Foreword has been contributed by Professor Kim C. Beazley, former Minister for Defence (1984–90), who describes it as ‘a timely book which transcends old debates on priorities for the defence of Australia or forward commitments, [and] debates about globalism and regionalism’, and as ‘an invaluable compendium’ to the current process of refining the strategic guidance for Australia’s future defence policies and capabilities. ...

Table of Contents

Abstract

Contributors

Acronyms and Abbreviations

Foreword by Professor Kim C. Beazley

Chapter 1. Introduction: Australia and Cyber-warfare

Chapter 2. The Australian Defence Force and Network Centric Warfare

Introduction

The ADF’S NCW Concept

Networks

Shared situational awareness

Self-synchronisation

Balancing risks and opportunities

The NCW Roadmap

The human dimension

Accelerating change and innovation

Defence’s Information Superiority and Support Concept

Networking issues

The ADF’s capability planning for NCW

Maritime

Land

Aerospace

ISR

Joint force

Coalition

Conclusion

Chapter 3. Information Warfare—Attack and Defence

Introduction

The value of information

Open source information

Information Warfare

How would an adversary attack us?

China’s cyber-attack capability

What should we do?

Conclusion

Chapter 4. Targeting Information Infrastructures

Introduction

The information society

Information Infrastructures: the NII, GII and DII

The National Information Infrastructure

The Global Information Infrastructure

The Defence Information Infrastructure

Information Infrastructures: Some key characteristics

Components

Connectivity

Bandwidth

Functional interdependence

Ownership and control

The Importance of Information Assurance

Targeting Information Infrastructures: who and why?

Nation-state targeting

Targeting by non-state organisations

Targeting: objectives

Targeting: capabilities required

Psychological operations

Database management

Computer Network Operations (CNO)

Other weapons and methodologies

Media

HUMINT assets

Additional capabilities

Targeting: vulnerability and accessibility

Vulnerabilities

Accessibility

Intelligence

Conclusion

Chapter 5. Protecting Information Infrastructures

Introduction

Balancing information superiority and operational vulnerability

Vulnerabilities

Balancing security and privacy in information sharing

Managing security risk

Managing privacy risk

Dangers in getting privacy wrong

Cyber-security

Critical Infrastructure Protection in Australia

Securing the Defence enterprise

Trusted information infrastructure

Addressing the national requirement

Conclusion

Chapter 6. An Australian Cyber-warfare Centre

Introduction

The relevant organisations and their coordination

Research, planning and preparation

Offensive activities

Information Warfare and the intelligence process

Command issues

A premium on ante-bellum activities

Rules of engagement, doctrine and operational concepts

Capability planning

Location of a Cyber-warfare Centre

Regional developments

Conclusion

Bibliography

Index

Computer stabilised platform for replenishment at sea

A new option for underway replenishment (UNREP/RAS) of ships is the Ampelmann self stabilising platform. This has computer controlled jacks which compensate for the motion of the ship. This could be used to transfer crew and cargo from a ship to a Collins class submarine, as well as other vessels.

It may be possible to apply the same technology to the jack supported ramps fitted to the the Australian designed Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSV) being built for the US navy. This would allow the ships to transfer cargo, vehicles and personnel at sea while underway. For safety reasons it might be prudent to use remote controlled fork lift trucks for most cargo transfer.

Infrastructure for our Boradband Future

Greetings from the "Realising Our Broadband Future" forum Sydney. Brad Weam, CIO Iron Ore, BHP Billiton is talking about the network used for running iron ore mining in Western Australia to Port Headland. This shows how broadband is literally part of Australian infrastructure. Without the telecommunications, Australia's mining industry would stop. It happens that some years ago I was part of a HQ Australian Defence Force party which visited northern Australia, including Port Headland, looking at how to protect it. While my military colleagues discussed how y satchel charges a terrorist would need to blow up an LNG refinery, I looked at the telecommunications. It would have only needed cutting a few cables to disrupt Australia's major industry. Since then a level of redundancy has been introduced, making a disruption to the system much harder.

Strategic and technical options for new Australian submarines

In his 2009 Annual Burgmann College Lecture, the Prime Minister proposed a National Security College be set up by the Australian Government and the Australian National University. This would train senior civilian and military officers in strategic matters, including collaborative culture. A practical exercise which the new students could undertake is the design of the new Collins class submarine replacement, combining strategic and technical options in the one process.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has proposed 12 submarines at a cost of $A25 billion (project SEA 1000). However, there is no proven design for such submarines. Even if they could be built, it is not clear the Australian Government could use such a powerful weapon system effectively. Therefore it would be useful for a mixed team of policy specialists, military and technical specialists to consider what capabilities are feasible and how they might be used.

The preferred ADF option is for a larger version of the current Collins class Australian-built diesel-electric submarines. Even if this is the best option, there are still many details to consider. As an example, one option is to use automation to reduce the crew of the submarine, allowing for more capability in a smaller space. That would require an analysis of what is possible with computer based systems to run a submarine. With effective use of automaton, it may be possible to provide all the desired capability in a submarine the same size as the current Collins class.

There are rapid advances being made in autonomous underwater vehicles (robot miniature submarines). It is likely these will be used for missions currently undertaken by manned submarines. It is likely the Collins class replacement will be equipped to launch and recover several types of AUVs, but what types and for what missions? This will require a knowledge of robotics and AI.

The primary mission of the submarines will be to collect information and to attack shipping. With the development of long range accurate cruse missiles, the submarines may also act as a strategic deterrent. However, Australia does not have a process for making the rapid political decision needed to use such a deterrent. This would require consideration of the political process to be used, as well as how consultations would be made with advisers and the technical communications infrastructure to do that. Even the USA, which has invested considerable resources on strategic decision making over decades, found its decision systems unable to cope with a relatively small scale attack on 11 September 2001.

The Australian Department of Defence issued a Request for Tender for a "Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC) Telepresence System". Government agencies are also investing in telepresence systems. However, this would require not only technical compatibility between the military and civilian systems, but also compatible meeting procedures. While the military have long practiced the use of such technology for decision making, this usually does not involve civilian decision makers. Also new systems such as instant messaging on mobile devices create new options and well as creating a risk of subverting established processes. Scenarios could be investigated using tools such as the Delphi Decision Maker.

New options are emerging, such as use of the National Broadband Network, which will be a high speed, relatively secure and reliable network. The "Defence Information and Communications Technology Strategy 2009" makes no mention 0f the NBN.

The ADF has envisioned the Collins class replacement as having a very long range. This is in part due to the long transit times from Australian submarine bases to likely patrol areas. An alternative would be to provide floating support facilities, which could undertake some replenishment at sea and major work at a friendly port.

Replenishment at sea (Underway replenishment UNREP) is not favoured by submariners, due to limited space in a submarine making loading slow and dangerous, with most supplies being loaded by hand down narrow hatches. However, with the design of a new submarine comes the opportunity to incorporate containerised, automated stores handling. This would allow rapid transfer using automated cranes and helicopters.

The RAN's new Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Dock ships will be equipped for rapid stores transfer, as will the Australian designed Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSV) being built for the US navy. On a smaller scale the Austal Multi-Role Vessel could be used with an unmanned helicopter, such as the Kaman Aerospace Corporation K-MAX, for Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP). However, studies of the technical feasibility, strategic and political implications of this would be needed.

Standard unit loads would prove challenging to accommodate in a submarine. MIL-STD-1660 specifies a 1,016 mm × 1,219 mm 1,814 kg unit load and the "Joint Modular Intermodal Container" (JMIC) is 51.75”L X 43.75”W X 43”H which would be difficult to load into and move about in a submarine. However, the benefits for solving this problem would be substantial. Containerisation of stores and equipment has begun to change the design, operation and strategic uses of surface warships, such as the Absalon class command ship. The same could be applied to submarines, making them quicker to load, replenish and reconfigure.

Proving access ways to accommodate standard unit loads would also allow equipment on the submarine to be palletised and easily replaced. This would allow equipment to be swapped out for maintenance and for different missions. One application of this would be for power. The Collins class vessels have experienced problems with the Hedemora diesel engines. These cannot be easily replaced due to their size. Smaller palletised power units could be removed for service.

Design Set for Canberra Class Landing Helicopter Dock Ships

According to "Shape of things to come: Spain's new projection ship readies for sea" (By Nick Brown in Janes, 9 September 2009), the design of the Canberra class LHD ships for the Australian Navy has been finalised. The ships will have the same overall structure as the Spanish Juan Carlos I, they are derived from, but with different electronics and fitout. The ships will have an Australian specific bridge layout. The communications and combat management systems will be similar to the Anzac frigates. The hulls for the Australian ships are being made in Spain, but will be fitted out in Melbourne with a locally made "island".

The Australian ships will retain the transport capabilities of the Spanish one, including the ability to carry 144 ISO 20 foot containers. As an example, the ship could carry a modularised five story building, similar in to the 5 story 70 apartment building currently being assembled at the ANU in Canberra from shipping containers.

War 2.o Live TV with smaller display

The symposium "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" is being streamed live from the ANU in Canberra for the next two days. As well as
Video, there is a Twitter discussion. Some on low bandwidth and low performance computers may have difficulty with the full live content (I have suggested a lower frame rate video stream be provided), so I have broken out the components: Live TV, Chat, Social Stream and Media stream. Here is the Live TV, reduced to 100 x 80 pixels:Live TV : Ustream

War 2.0 Media Stream

The symposium "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" is being streamed live from the ANU in Canberra for the next two days. As well as
Video, there is a Twitter discussion. Some on low bandwidth and low performance computers may have difficulty with the full live content (I have suggested a lower frame rate video stream be provided), so I have broken out the components: Live TV, Chat, Social Stream and Media stream. Here is the Media Stream:

Broadcasting Live with Ustream.TV

War 2.0 Social Stream

The symposium "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" is being streamed live from the ANU in Canberra for the next two days. As well as
Video, there is a Twitter discussion. Some on low bandwidth and low performance computers may have difficulty with the full live content (I have suggested a lower frame rate video stream be provided), so I have broken out the components: Live TV, Chat, Social Stream and Media stream. Here is the Social Stream:

War 2.0 Chat

The symposium "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" is being streamed live from the ANU in Canberra for the next two days. As well as
Video, there is a Twitter discussion. Some on low bandwidth and low performance computers may have difficulty with the full live content (I have suggested a lower frame rate video stream be provided), so I have broken out the components: Live TV, Chat, Social Stream and Media stream. Here is the Chat:

War 2.0 live TV stream

The symposium "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" is being streamed live from the ANU in Canberra for the next two days. As well as
Video, there is a Twitter discussion. Some on low bandwidth and low performance computers may have difficulty with the full live content (I have suggested a lower frame rate video stream be provided), so I have broken out the components: Live TV, Chat, Social Stream and Media stream. Here is the Live TV:Live TV : Ustream

War 2.0 streamed live now

The symposium "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" is being streamed live from the ANU in Canberra for the next two days. As well as
Video, there is a Twitter discussion.

I hope to take part in the symposium via the web (from Web Directions South), relating some of my experience setting the Australian Defence Force's policy for the use of the web and Internet.

Last night the "Timeline Project" was demonstrated at Google Sydney. This used a timeline updating a map of Europe in World War 2. Military organisations traditionally document battles in the battalion dairy. This timeline mapping technique could be used for an electronic diary. This week ABC Media Watch criticised the Australian Department of Defence for providing minimal information for the public about what is happening in Afghanistan. Perhaps as well as a war artist, there could be a war blogger, providng a timeline map of what is happening. I might ask the symposium about this.

The Department of International Relations of the Australian National University is hosting a two day symposium on "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" in Canberra, 7 to 8 October 2009. The program includes Brigadier Brian Dawson (Director General of Australian Defence Force Public Affairs), Eric Beecher (Crikey.com), Professor Hugh White (ANU Strategic and Defence Studies Centre) and Mehran Mortezai (Iranian student and Twitterer). The venue is the new hit-tech Hedley Bull Centre at the ANU.

War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media

Today, war is conducted not only by the dispatch of Tomahawks in the air or Kalashnikovs and suicide attacks on the ground but also by means of bytes, tweets, digital images, and social networking forums. (New) media technology, in other words, has become a medium of war and diplomacy.

This multidisciplinary two-day symposium on 7-8 October hosted by the Department of International Relations at the ANU will map the shifting arena of war, conflict, terrorism, and violence in an intensely mediated age. The symposium will bring together international relations academics, media scholars and media practitioners, policymakers and defence staff. It will explore cultural, political, strategic, and technological transformations in media platforms and media participation and assess their impact on policy, publics, and outcomes of political conflict.

The symposium addresses questions such as: What is 'new' about new media? How have the transformations in media technology influenced media-military relations? How have these transformations impacted upon traditional media actors? How are war, conflict, terrorism and violence represented; what are the consequences of these representations? In what ways has new media technology empowered marginalised voices in war, conflict, and terrorism? And how has the transformation of the media landscape impacted on the way states conduct their foreign policy? ...

From: War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media, ANU, 2009

Symposium Program

7 October
9:15 - 9:30	Introduction
9:30 - 10:45	Keynote address by James Der Derian From the Image of War to the War of Images (Live webcast from Brown University)
10:45 - 11:15	Morning tea
11:15 - 12:45	Panel One: Traditional Voices Responding to New Toys, New Challenges Kate Geraghty, Sydney Morning Herald photographer Prakash Mirchandani, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, ANU Bill Paterson, Ambassador for Counter-terrorism Peter Mantello, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Japan Brigadier Brian Dawson, Director General Public Affairs, ADF
12:45 - 1:45	Lunch
1:45 - 3:00	Keynote address by Eric Beecher, Crikey.com The Changing Media Landscape
3:00 - 3:30	Afternoon tea
3:30 - 5:00	Panel Two: New Voices New Media Empowering New Actors Lisa Goldman, political blogger from Tel Aviv Sophie McNeill, SBS Dateline video journalist Mark Andrejevic, University of Queensland Matthew Hornsey, University of Queensland Nicholas Farrelly, ANU Mehran Mortezai, Iranian student and Twitterer
5:00 - 6:30	Reception

8 October
9:30 - 10:45	Keynote address by Paul McGeough, Sydney Morning Herald A Correspondent's Journey
10:45 - 11:15	Morning tea
11:15 - 12:45	Panel Three: War 2.0 - What are We Facing? How is New Media Shaping Conflict? Thomas Rid, Authors of War 2.0 Peter Leahy, University of Canberra Seb Kaempf, University of Queensland Julie Posetti, University of Canberra Hugh White, ANU
12:45 - 1:45	Lunch
1:45 - 3:00	Concluding Plenary Politics by Other Means?

War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media, Canberra,

Brig. Dawson

The Department of International Relations of the Australian National University is hosting a two day symposium on "War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media" in Canberra, 7 to 8 October 2009. There is a modest $50 registration fee ($15 for students). The program includes Brigadier Brian Dawson (Director General of Australian Defence Force Public Affairs), Eric Beecher (Crikey.com), Professor Hugh White (ANU Strategic and Defence Studies Centre) and Mehran Mortezai (Iranian student and Twitterer). The venue is the new hit-tech Hedley Bull Centre at the ANU. I hope to take part in the symposium via the web (from Web Directions South), relating some of my experience setting the Australian Defence Force's policy for the use of the web and Internet.

War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media

Today, war is conducted not only by the dispatch of Tomahawks in the air or Kalashnikovs and suicide attacks on the ground but also by means of bytes, tweets, digital images, and social networking forums. (New) media technology, in other words, has become a medium of war and diplomacy.

This multidisciplinary two-day symposium on 7-8 October hosted by the Department of International Relations at the ANU will map the shifting arena of war, conflict, terrorism, and violence in an intensely mediated age. The symposium will bring together international relations academics, media scholars and media practitioners, policymakers and defence staff. It will explore cultural, political, strategic, and technological transformations in media platforms and media participation and assess their impact on policy, publics, and outcomes of political conflict.

The symposium addresses questions such as: What is 'new' about new media? How have the transformations in media technology influenced media-military relations? How have these transformations impacted upon traditional media actors? How are war, conflict, terrorism and violence represented; what are the consequences of these representations? In what ways has new media technology empowered marginalised voices in war, conflict, and terrorism? And how has the transformation of the media landscape impacted on the way states conduct their foreign policy? ...

From: War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media, ANU, 2009

Symposium Program

7 October
9:15 - 9:30	Introduction
9:30 - 10:45	Keynote address by James Der Derian From the Image of War to the War of Images (Live webcast from Brown University)
10:45 - 11:15	Morning tea
11:15 - 12:45	Panel One: Traditional Voices Responding to New Toys, New Challenges Kate Geraghty, Sydney Morning Herald photographer Prakash Mirchandani, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, ANU Bill Paterson, Ambassador for Counter-terrorism Peter Mantello, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Japan Brigadier Brian Dawson, Director General Public Affairs, ADF
12:45 - 1:45	Lunch
1:45 - 3:00	Keynote address by Eric Beecher, Crikey.com The Changing Media Landscape
3:00 - 3:30	Afternoon tea
3:30 - 5:00	Panel Two: New Voices New Media Empowering New Actors Lisa Goldman, political blogger from Tel Aviv Sophie McNeill, SBS Dateline video journalist Mark Andrejevic, University of Queensland Matthew Hornsey, University of Queensland Nicholas Farrelly, ANU Mehran Mortezai, Iranian student and Twitterer
5:00 - 6:30	Reception

8 October
9:30 - 10:45	Keynote address by Paul McGeough, Sydney Morning Herald A Correspondent's Journey
10:45 - 11:15	Morning tea
11:15 - 12:45	Panel Three: War 2.0 - What are We Facing? How is New Media Shaping Conflict? Thomas Rid, Authors of War 2.0 Peter Leahy, University of Canberra Seb Kaempf, University of Queensland Julie Posetti, University of Canberra Hugh White, ANU
12:45 - 1:45	Lunch
1:45 - 3:00	Concluding Plenary Politics by Other Means?

From: Program for War 2.0: Political Violence & New Media, ANU, 2009

Australian National Security College

Last Thursday in the 2009 Annual Burgmann College Lecture, the Prime Minister proposed a National Security College be set up by the Australian Government and the Australian National University. This would train senior civilian and military officers in strategic matters, including collaborative culture.

It happens I attended a short course at the then Australian College of Defence and Strategic Studies. In this as a senior government officer I took part in a role playing exercise with senior military officers on how to deal with a security crisis in South East Asia. This was very different from the average public service course. Later I gave the college a seminar on Internet and web for command and control at a Joint US/Australian military exercise.

The mention of "collaborative culture" by the PM is significant. There may be a role for the use of technology in this training, as this is also being increasingly used for the actual collaboration at senior levels. Both the military and civilian government buildings are being equipped with computers and telecommunications to link them together for meetings. What is lacking is training of the staff in how to make use of these facilities, both the support staff who prepare briefing materials and the senior staff who need to lean new forms of literacy to be able to use the materials.

Recently I was considering how the techniques of mentoring and collaboration I have been using to teach Green ICT, may be applied further. One thought was to develop a course which not only used these techniques for delivery, but also as the topic of the course: teach how to do online collaboration, by using online collaborating. Apart from teaching an essential skill to senior decision makers, this would also have the advantage of reducing the resources required to deliver such courses.

A major problem with courses for senior staff is to get them in one place at the same time for long enough to teach them. One way around this is to give them online courses. This also has the advantage of better simulating the busy environment which the education is for. It also makes best use of very senior instructors.

... I spoke before about the new strategic relationship between the Australian Government and the ANU. To spearhead this new relationship, I want to explore the establishment of a National Security College.

National security is now a very complex policy environment and senior officials need new sets of knowledge and skills to operate effectively and strategically within this new environment. Last December in my National Security Statement I announced the establishment of a national Security Executive Development Program.

The development of this program is underway, however I envisage that this be developed into a suite of world-leading courses that will be undertaken by senior officials working in the national security community.

I want the Program to develop a generation of senior executive officials who will have a shared understanding of the national security strategic environment, architecture and collaborative culture - and a shared understanding of the capabilities, priorities and challenges that exist across the national security community. Such a college would help develop the next generation of national security leaders and more broadly enhance strategic leadership in our community.

To give this program a “home” and recognised brand of excellence, some preliminary discussions have commenced with the ANU about the establishment of a National Security College as a joint venture established under our strategic relationship with the ANU. These initiatives, incorporating national security and public service excellence, would not only help generate the future leaders of the Australian public service.

The strategic relationship would also build the capabilities for university-based experts to support the Government and contribute to policy making. Preliminary discussions will explore models for how such a venture could be progressed. ...

From: 2009 Annual Burgmann College Lecture, Kevin Rudd, Prime Minister of Australia at the Australian National University, 27 August 2009

Weapons Systems Defence Research Summer Vacation Scholarships

Here are the Weapons Systems projects for Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) Scholarships. DSTO is offering 68 university students $4,050 tax-free each for a 12-week research project in the Summer Vacation Scholarship Program. Applications can be made online and close 19 July 2009, with the projects running from late November 2009 to mid February 2010 accross Australia.

The Projects

WSD 01 Enhancement of Ground Based Air Defence Planning Tools

Weapons Systems Division has developed a ground based air defence planning tool that is used by the 16th Air Defence Regiment for optimizing air defence layouts. The Air Defence Command Post Automation (ADCPA) tool is a Microsoft Windows based tool that is currently being upgraded based on user requirements. Developments will consider GUI, functionality and potential integration of Geospatial products.

This project involves: a) continued updating the existing ADCPA tool; b) design and development work for migration of the tool to a new simulation architecture; and c) general support to the development of simulation architectures. The student will gain experience in software engineering in a research environment, state of the art simulation architectures and an understanding of weapon systems.

Update the existing ADCPA software application with user defined modifications. Assist with the re-design of ADCPA to be compatible with the new simulation architecture developed by Weapon Systems Division. Assist with general simulation application architecture development as directed by MSTARS team leader.

Engineering (Aerospace, Information Technology, Software), Applied Physics, Computer Science. C++ programming, Visual C++ MFC, wxWidgets, knowledge of GIS products.

Weapons Systems Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

WSD 02 Enhancement of Simulink Missile Models using MSTARS

Weapons Systems Division has developed an environment to aid the development of physics-based models of missiles called MSTARS. MSTARS is a Model Architecture developed under Matlab Simulink that provides templates, GUI’s and utility blocks to aid the construction of missile models and the export of these models to C++ simulations. Sample missile components and models are included to serve as a worked example to users. This project involves updating some of the sample MSTARS models to enhance their functionality and better represent the capabilities of modern missiles. The student will gain experience in modelling complex systems in Simulink, software engineering in a research environment and an understanding of modern missile technology.

Update example MSTARS model components to represent more advanced missile capabilities, such as launch aircraft to missile datalink and lock-after-launch infra-red seekers. Integrate Simulink models from other missile modeling environments into MSTARS. Assist with general MSTARS architecture development as directed by MSTARS team leader

Engineering (Aerospace, Information Technology, Software), Applied Physics, Computer Science.

Matlab and Simulink, C++ programming.

Weapons Systems Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

WSD 03 Replacement of Safety Status Monitor and Display

The Safety Status Monitor and Display (SSMD) is a critical safety component of the Primary Infrared Scene Projector. Its role is to monitor analog safety sensors and communicate this data to a host PC over an RS232 serial interface. The SSMD must be replaced and this project requires a requirements analysis and specification of new hardware including ADC and communications hardware. This project may be extended to include the development of a TCP/IP interface in FPGA hardware if time is available.

For SSMD replacement Identification of requirements for replacement hardware Specification of replacement system Selection of COTS hardware

For TCP/IP project extension Implement a TCP/IP interface on Xilinx FPGA Develop a GUI and communications protocol for communication between FPGA development board and host PC

Electronic Engineering or Mechatronic Engineering

Knowledge of ADCs and how to select appropriate ADC for a given task Good report writing and communication skills Some programming skills (C++ or Java) VHDL design experience FPGA design experience MATLAB experience Simulink experience

Must have good knowledge of Analog to Digital conversion theory and hardware and must possess good communication skills.

Weapons Systems Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

WSD 04 Characterisation of fuel vaporisation

Experiments and trials that are done to study the interaction of projectiles in a jet fuel-air mixture require knowledge of the concentration and fractional composition of the fuel as it is introduced to the apparatus and vaporises. Following a short review of relevant literature, this project will firstly study in a laboratory apparatus the vaporisation process from initiation to saturated equilibrium, or to a steady non-equilibrium state using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry or other methods. It will then assess options for rugged sensors that could be used in a larger projectile interaction chamber. The ability of simple gauges to identify conditions in the vapour mixture and methods of calibration will be addressed

Review of available literature; refinement of experimental methodology; design and construction of laboratory apparatus; supervised operation of gas chromatography/mass spectrometer instruments; analysis of results; search and assessment of measurement product options; reporting of conduct and results of the project

Organic Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Petrochemical engineering, Physical Chemistry

Laboratory skills, desktop analysis and reporting

Weapons Systems Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

WSD 05 Design, construction, and evaluation of high current Helmholtz coils

Using computer simulation and analytical tools design Helmholtz coils for high current applications. Suitable designs will be constructed and then evaluated. Magnetic fields will be measured and mapped for a variety of current inputs. A final report detailing results will be provided.

Simulation, construction, experiment, report writing Physics, mechanical, electrical, electronic engineering

Mechanical design This is not a desk job Weapons Systems Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

WSD 06 Target Detection Algorithm Development for Ground Penetrating Radar Data Algorithms

Real-time detection and discrimination of targets of interest at a standoff distance is a major issue in efforts to develop defence against improvised explosive devices (IED). Threat Mitigation (TM) group, Defence Science Technology Organization (DSTO) in collaboration with universities has developed a number of target detection algorithms applicable to Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), metal detector array data, and Visual & Infrared (IR) images. This project focuses on development and testing of enhanced target detection algorithms to reduce clutter signal due to the reflection from the ground surface in ground penetrating radar (GPR) measurements. The proposed technique will be applied to a GPR, which has been used to detect subsurface anti-personnel (AP) landmines. A very simple model will be is used to model the GPR clutter and the target signal

Data analysis, report writing Electronic and electrical engineering Matlab competency

Weapons Systems Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

Human factors Defence Research Summer Vacation Scholarships

Here are the Human factors projects for Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) Scholarships. DSTO is offering 68 university students $4,050 tax-free each for a 12-week research project in the Summer Vacation Scholarship Program. Applications can be made online and close 19 July 2009, with the projects running from late November 2009 to mid February 2010 accross Australia.

The Projects

MPD 05 A Review of Fatigue and Performance Models

The Navy Personnel and Material Sustainment Group in MPD are currently involved in a number of research studies where fatigue is one of the key issues. It is well known that fatigue is a persistent occupational hazard and may be an influence in many human factors accidents. Fatigue is also very much part of life within the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), where work demands and stress are high. Part of the research conducted within MPD aims at providing recommendations and initiatives to mitigate against fatigue and improve safety within the RAN.

Over the last decade there has been an increased interest in technologies and procedures that are capable of monitoring and predicting fatigue and performance. This interest has largely been brought about by the requirement for more effective fatigue countermeasures in the transport sector. Within this context, the Navy Personnel and Material Sustainment Group in MPDhave purchased and used technologies capable to some extent of detecting and predicting fatigue. An important aspect for these technologies is that they are properly validated and that critical reviews are conducted before use. This means that the models must be a predictor of fatigue-related performance errors. This project aims to compare and contrast the features and capabilities of two fatigue and performance models and to identify critical gaps in fatigue and performance research. The aim is to review, evaluate and validate these models and provide recommendations on the most appropriate technologies for use within MPD's research mandate.The two models under review will be: o The Fatigue Audit InterDyne (FAID) {1}; o Sleep, Activity, Fatigue and Task Effectiveness Model (SAFTE) {2} o Literature Review o Software Review and Evaluation o Basic Statistical Analysis o Report Writing

The two models will be compared using experimental data available from past experiments carried out by the Navy Personnel and Material Sustainment Group. The outcome of this project will include a report which will cover a description of the models and the results from the validation process. The project will be split up into different phases. 1. A literature review with the aim being to collect data on these models. Important aspects of these models are validity, reliability, generisabililty and sensitivity. This will involve a comparison and critique of these models. 2. Utilising experimental data to evaluate validate and compare the two models. 3. A report which will include information on the review, evaluation and validation results of these models

Human factors: Psychology, Science Maritime Platform Division DSTO Fishermans Bend

PRD 01 Capability Technology Demonstration - Project Maturity Program

Develop options for how the CTD & CTD-EP Programs might improve the ability for existing industry technology projects to enter Defence service

Using imagination and new approaches, consider and develop commercial and technical approaches to improve acceptance of new technology for operational use.

Industrial studies, technical policy, technology commercialisation, engineering & science.

Computer literacy to prepare reporting, tables and presentations. A willingness to look at new and novel commercialisation approaches for high technology industry.

The candidate would be advantaged by having completed some study in commercialisation of technology and an understanding of basic engineering

Projects & Requirements Division DSTO Canberra

Maritime Platform Defence Research Summer Vacation Scholarships

Here are the Maritime Platform projects for Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) Scholarships. DSTO is offering 68 university students $4,050 tax-free each for a 12-week research project in the Summer Vacation Scholarship Program. Applications can be made online and close 19 July 2009, with the projects running from late November 2009 to mid February 2010 accross Australia.

The Projects

MPD 01 Comparative Study of monohull and trimaran hull forms

This project requires the comparison of two different ship hull forms designed to perform the same primary tasks in order to determine the influence of hull form on ship size and propulsion.

A monohull design would be used as the base ship and the objective would be to initially develop a high level concept trimaran design able to carry out the same primary roles as the base ship.

An estimate of the speed-resistance characteristics and corresponding propulsion demands for both ships would then be conducted to identify other potential implications such as effect on maximum range and/or speed.

This task requires the ability to carry out various naval architectural type activities such as: weight and space calculations, development of concept arrangements and speed - resistance calculations

Naval Architecture Familiarity with commercial and academic naval architectural software codes is essential

The successful applicant must be able to demonstrate initiative and good time management skills. Only naval architecture students about to enter their final year or currently undertaking final year bachelor degree studies will be considered

Maritime Platform Division DSTO Fishermans Bend

MPD 02 Submarine Surfaced Stability

To investigate the feasibility of using gyro stabilisers to increase roll damping and enhance the stability of a surfaced submarine.

1. Analyse and model the effect of gyro stabilizers on the roll motion of a surfaced submarine. 2. Assess the effectiveness of gyro stabilizers on submarine roll. 3. Design a roll damping capability demonstrator using gyrostabilise

Engineering/Science ability to analyse, model and design dynamic systems completed the third year of an engineering/science degree with good knowledge in engineering or applied mathematics

Maritime Platform Division DSTO Fishermans Bend

MPD 03 Advanced battery system investigations

Development of infrastructure for advanced battery system test cell. To assist in the construction and commissioning of the Propulsion and Energy Management group’s high current battery cycling test rig and to conduct limited cyclic and classification tests on advanced batteries for submarine and land vehicle applications. If time allows, begin investigations into battery management system architectures in support of these advanced batteries

Electrical engineering knowledge of Labview Safety conscience with power laboratory experience

Maritime Platform Division DSTO Fishermans Bend

MPD 04 Structural Evaluation of Composite Propeller Hub Connections

DSTO has established a research program on developing technology for composite marine propellers. A key aspect of the technology is the design of an effective and practical connection between each composite blade and a metallic hub. The project will aim to develop an understanding of how loads can be transferred between an orthotropic composite blade and an isotropic, higher stiffness metallic hub. The connection concept will facilitate removal of a blade from the hub which may also induce special considerations in relation to load transfer.

The student will be required to refine one or more concept connection designs and develop and analyse a basic finite element model. A report shall be prepared to provide a preliminary evaluation of concept design's) investigated, indicating recommendations on further research

Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Materials Engineering, Marine/Ocean Engineering.

Experience with finite element modelling and analysis and familiarity with composite materials is essential. Familiarity with marine propulsion and marine design is desirable but not essential.

Completion of at least 3 years of an undergraduate engineering/science degree. Australian citizen and eligible to obtain restricted security clearance

Maritime Platform Division DSTO Fishermans Bend

Maritime Operations Defence Research Summer Vacation Scholarships

Here are the Maritime Operations projects for Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) Scholarships. DSTO is offering 68 university students $4,050 tax-free each for a 12-week research project in the Summer Vacation Scholarship Program. Applications can be made online and close 19 July 2009, with the projects running from late November 2009 to mid February 2010 accross Australia.

The Projects

MOD 01 Developing of a generic model for ambient ship noise

To implement an initial radiated noise model for ships that can be embedded in ship tracks so as to produce a far field spectrum for calibration of ship sonars - leading to an eventual real-time system using GCSS / TESS and operational trialling

Literature search, development and implementation of model. Mathematical modelling; literature review. programming in JAVA or C++; Interest in modelling and GIS displays

Maritime Operations Division ATP Sydney

MOD 02 Investigate the deployment and sustainment options for an amphibious task force.

The Australian amphibious capability will be greatly improved with the introduction of two large amphibious ships. These ships will support more helicopters and landing craft than have previously been possible. This study will use simulation and other appropriate operations research techniques to determine an appropriate mix of helicopters and landing craft for amphibious operations.

Conduct a feasibility study for different simulation packages.

Determine variables including limiting constraints for elements within an amphibious system. Produce simulation.

Operations Research / Mathematics/ Physics/ Computer science Java programming experience and knowledge of the entire software engineering lifecycle

Very good communication, interpersonal and writing skills. Distinction Average preferred.

Maritime Operations Division ATP Sydney

MOD 03 World model for autonomous underwater exploration

Investigation of strategies for efficient representation and update of a ‘world model’ for the underwater environment to be incorporated into a robotic vehicle.

Applicant will be required to undertake theoretical studies into processes by which parameters describing the underwater environment (bathymetry, bottom type, currents, obstacles) can be represented and modified efficiently in the context of an exploratory autonomous underwater vehicle (a ‘scout’) that is tasked with mapping an unexplored underwater area and maintaining a ‘safe route to exit’ as it explores.

Applied mathematics, physics, mechatronics, computer science

Well-developed programming skills are essential

Position would suit an applicant with an interest in artificial intelligence and ocean research

Maritime Operations Division ATP Sydney

MOD 04 Automation of hydrographic survey Investigation of strategies for autonomous survey of coastal waters using an autonomous surface vehicle fitted with a bathymetric sonar.

Applicant will be required to undertake theoretical studies into the efficiency of autonomous survey operations. The work will be based on optimisation algorithms and probabilistic models of hydrographic sensor performance and the marine environment. This work is a continuation of a previous SVS project

Applied mathematics, physics, mechatronics, computer science

Well-developed programming skills are essential and exposure to optimisation algorithms would be beneficial

Position would suit an applicant with an interest in ocean research

Maritime Operations Division ATP Sydney

MOD 05 Enhancements of DSTO AIS Recording Systems

DSTO collects position data broadcast by vessels through the Automatic Identification System (AIS). DSTO currently records this data through a system that consists of java programs to receive and rebroadcast data streams, and to collect and database the information. The information is stored in MySQL databases that are becoming large. Depending on the skills and interests of the summer student, this project will look at improving and optimizing one or more of internally developed tools and systems: 1. Data stream redirection software 2. MySQL databases, including storage, replication/redundancy and query optimization 3. Database and stream management software 4. Geospatial presentation of ship current and historic data (using NASA Worldwind GIS System­java version). 5. Historical analysis toolboxes (MATLAB Based) Software Development and database development and management

Computer Science/Software Engineering OR Mathematics/Physics with strong computing component. Java Programming (essential), Database (essential) MATLAB (desirable)

The successful applicant will require initiative to understand our existing systems and work with the DSTO team to identify and develop system improvements.

Maritime Operations Division ATP Sydney

MOD 06 Scenario Generation and Control Development

The Virtual Maritime System (VMS) is a modeling and simulation framework with a particular focus on the maritime combat system centric domain. The VMS is currently based on a distributed simulation standard (the High Level Architecture (HLA)) that is 10 years old. In that time the HLA has been updated and new simulation standards have appeared. One new simulation standard is the Test and Training Enabling Architecture (TENA) (http://www.tena-sda.org)

This project will explore the implementation of VMS using TENA. This activity will have several tasks: Evaluating the differences/similarities between HLA and TENA Comparing the VMS to existing TENA object models for similarities Porting existing VMS software written to work with the HLA to work with TENA Possibly developing middleware to allow a simulation model to transition between VMS/HLA and VMS/TENA with no modifications Writing a report providing an introduction to TENA for those experienced with HLA and advice on porting from HLA to TENA

Presentation of work performed during employment.

Software engineering Software development experience with C++ Experience with CORBA (TENA is heavily CORBA based)

Experience with software development best practices (source code management, build systems, release management).

Maritime Operations Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

MOD 07 Cloud Computing Research and Development

Cloud computing is a style of computing in which dynamically scalable and often virtualized resources are provided as a service over the Internet. Users need not have knowledge of, expertise in, or control over the technology infrastructure in the "cloud".

The project will explore the implementation of Cloud Computing onto a small cluster of computers in the ANZAC Combat Systems Integration Laboratory (ACSIL)'s development and production environments. The activity will have several tasks: For a small set of candidate architectures, evaluate the relative merits of using each Present the evaluation to a small working group of MOD staff Install the selected architecture onto a cluster of computers Integrate, and where applicable, develop solutions to integrate higher-level job and task management functions into the architecture Contrive and implement policies to govern the management and operation of jobs within the cloud. Present the work performed during employment.

Familiarity with Distributed Computing principles and practices.

Experience with software development best practice (source code management, build systems).

Experience with C/C++.

Maritime Operations Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

MOD 08 Scenario Generation and Control Development

DSTO has recently embarked on an ambitious project to construct its own Scenario Generation and Control (SGC) program, which can be used to create and drive simulations in the ANZAC Combat Systems Integration

Laboratory (ACSIL). The ACSIL has a combination of simulated and actual Maritime platform hardware and is used regularly for human-in-the-loop experimentation.

The SGC programme of work is at a relatively early stage; there exists a unique opportunity for a motivated Summer Vacation

Student to get involved in extending the extant capabilities of this work by adding additional platform controller mechanisms. The software program is based on Java, JavaScript and Groovy, and operates as a Web Service; it features a novel time-line based viewing mechanism for developing scenarios.

This project will explore different types of advanced platform behaviours to be folded into the SGC programme of work. Using a DSTO-developed specification for the characteristics of scenario ‘background traffic’, this open-ended activity will involve several tasks: develop, implement code and visualisations of surface traffic in shipping lanes, with pre-defined behaviours based on the relative times of day, etc develop, implement code and visualisations of air traffic in air lanes, with aircraft traversing at pre-defined intervals based on the relative time of day, etc develop, implement code and visualisations of ‘fishing fleets with pre-defined behaviours based on the relative times of day, clustering together and moving as a single unit, etc present the work performed during employment.

Software engineering Software experience with Java/JavaScript/C++ Experience with, and an interest in high-level real-world simulations

Experience with, and an interest in developing GUI controls

Experience with software development best practices (source code management, build systems)

Maritime Operations Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

MOD 09 Integration of Google Earth with Simulation Tools

The project aims to develop a tool that can act as a bridge between an entity level simulation tool and the public domain software Google Earth. An entity level simulation is used to generate war games and is able to represent most military platforms and people.

The reason for this is to enable the use of Google Earth as the common view into the simulation. Using Google Earth has the benefit of any data available in the public domain for Google Earth can be made available during the simulation, making a more immersive simulation possible. The project will aim to enhance and develop on top of some initial prototype work to produce a more robust tool for use in the simulation environment at DSTO Sydney.

Development of a tool to integrate simulation with Google Earth to be utilised during entity level simulations Software Engineering, IT, Computer Science, Geospatial Information C/C++, Google Earth

Maritime Operations Division ATP Eveleigh (Sydney)

MOD 10 GIS Package for Amphibious Assault Toolset

The Amphibious Operations Group has been working on an Amphibious Assault Toolset to aid in the planning and conduct of beach and helicopter assaults. The student will be working towards adding a GIS element to the existing toolset

The project will involve researching GIS user requirements, conducting a study on relevant, existing GIS packages, develop/incorporate an appropriate GIS solution and demonstrate/review its functionality with the end user

Computer Science / Software Engineering Java programming experience and knowledge of the entire software engineering lifecycle

Very good communication, interpersonal and writing skills. Distinction Average preferred

Maritime Operations Division ATP Eveleigh (Sydney)

MOD 11 Development of User Interface for Force Protection Games

FPG have in the past been conducted as table-top exercises, however there is an opportunity to develop a software driven version of the FPG.

The student will be required to analyse the project requirements of developing a software driven FPMG and develop a solution to those requirements. Options for further extension of the interface should be considered e.g. remote access, instant messaging, recording tools

Software Engineering Programming, Human Factors Maritime Operations Division ATP Eveleigh

MOD 12 WebREP integration and support

WebREP is a web-based environmental and geospatial information management tool that provides key information to planners and warfighters. Enhancing WebREP with new and innovative algorithms and adding support for new data sets requires modification to the existing code base. WebREP has been requested for use in the TTCP / NATO REP10 trial in June 2010.

Programming and application support; integration of new data types and web services.

Computing - programming and web design/development

Understanding of Services Oriented Architectures and geospatial data structures

Maritime Operations Division ATP Eveleigh (Sydney)

MOD 13 Enhance real-time monitoring and display of resource consumption in component-based cluster software applications

Starting with a distributed component architecture which runs concept sonar processing applications the project is to improve the amount of information available on how the limited system resources (including memory and network bandwidth) are being allocated and consumed from being system-wide (recorded per-computer) to being per-component.

Upgrading various server software components of our in-house component architecture to support monitoring their individual consumption of CPU, memory and network bandwidth.

Enhance or replace the existing real-time monitoring tool to include the more detailed statistics. Given a generic test application, investigate and optimise for the performance penalty caused by the monitoring. Manage software using a version control system. Document changes made using comments and design documents.

Computer Science or Software Engineering, with understanding of operating systems, distributed computing and IP networking

Competence in programming in C++ Strong familiarity with Linux or UNIX environment and tools including shell scripts and the Eclipse IDE

Understanding of the CVS version control system

Desirable familiarity with Qt graphical toolkit and/or Java

Able to operate a standard desktop environment including Microsoft Windows and Office

Maritime Operations Division HMAS Stirling WA

MOD 14 Investigate the utility of Virtual World technology for early concept exploration

Virtual world technology is now being applied to many role rehearsal and scenario exploration tasks across a wide range of disciplines. More recently military organizations have been exploring the use of the technology because of the relatively low cost and for the diversity and richness of experiences using these tools. This project will produce exemplar submarine control spaces in a number of available virtual world technologies. These will then be used to examine metrics that might be applied to measuring the relative performance of people in these spaces and how that might translate to real world implementations

The students will build exemplar submarine control rooms using two or more available virtual world technologies (e.g. Open Simulator and Open Cobalt) and at varying levels of fidelity. Using metrics devised for the purpose the students will then quantify the utility of the models produced in evaluating performance of operators in the virtual spaces. Output of the project will be virtual world models of submarine control spaces, an assessment of the maturity of the technologies used and a comparison of the utility of the designs produced.

Human Factors, Computer Graphic Design Basic programming skills, experience creating virtual world or gaming content.

Maritime Operations Division HMAS Stirling WA

MOD 15 Adaptive beamforming for sonar audio

Sonar audio is an important tool used by sonar operators to assist in classifying contacts. Adaptive beamforming is a preferred processing technique for obtain high quality sonar audio. Using adaptive beamforming technique to improve the quality of sonar audio is still at its infancy stage. In this project, we shall test and compare different adaptive beamforming algorithms using simulated and recorded data, and recommend an appropriate algorithm for sonar audio.

Testing and comparing different adaptive beamforming algorithms using simulated and recorded data

Signal processing Programming in Matlab Prefer 3rd year Engineering students.

Maritime Operations Division HMAS Stirling WA

MOD 16 Investigate the use of a time stepping simulation for Monte Carlo study

To support the purchase of the future submarines to replace the Collins submarines, DSTO will be performing analytical studies using simulations. Simulations provide insight into the effectiveness of any proposal under various threats and under different environmental contexts. To have confidence in the result, it is essential to measure the outcomes under numerous starting conditions and contexts in a Monte Carlo fashion.

A set of criteria will be given to the student. The duty of the student is to learn how to use a commercial time stepping simulation VR-Force (http://www.mak.com/products/vrforces.php), and to attempt to use it for traditional Monte Carlo study. In the process identify and quantify any limitations of the tool against given criteria.

Operation research / Statistic, Modeling & simulation/ Computing. Basic desktop and programming skill.

Maritime Operations Division HMAS Stirling WA

MOD 17 New sensor technology for submarine sonar

This project will involve working in the future underwater acoustic sensors group at HMAS Stirling in WA. The focus is to investigate new sensor technology that can be used for submarine sonars. Current work done covers new sensor materials, re-configurable and smart sensor electronics and sensor characterization and calibration at our on site acoustic facility.

The applicant will be expected to participate in one or all of these existing work areas depending on their subject of specialization and interest. The work would be more suited to the experimental scientist.

Physics, Engineering Computing 3rd year Physics or Engineering students

Maritime Operations Division HMAS Stirling WA

MOD 18 Multi-Sensor Data Fusion for Tracking with Bearings-Only Measurements

When tracking a target using sensors that measure only the approximate bearing to a target, the use of data collected from multiple geographically separated sensors can drastically improve our accuracy. In this project, the student will investigate a data fusion scheme which can be used to track a single target using information from multiple bearings-only sensors. This scheme involves the use of Kalman filters and particle filters to process the sensor data. The project requires using Matlab to analyse the performance of the algorithm on simulated tracking scenarios, and to compare its performance to standard multi-sensor fusion schemes. - Understanding literature on the algorithm - Implementation and testing of algorithm in Matlab - Produce a report and give a seminar on the results

Engineering (Electronic or Computer Systems), Mathematics, Statistics Matlab programming Strong mathematical, analytical and problem solving skills

Maritime Operations Division HMAS Stirling WA

MOD 19 Open Architecture CMS Representative

Computing Environment Development - Generic combat system models and test functions

Contribute to the development of a representative combat system computing environment based on open architecture design philosophies and development practices by designing and developing generic combat system models and test functions. Participate in the research and design of generic information flow and functional architecture models for a generic combat system Research and use model driven tools to help with developing UML models and code generation. Participate in the development of UML models to represent the generic information flows and functional architecture for a generic combat system. Develop combat system test functions based on the information and functional models developed for a generic combat system

Software Engineer/Computer Scientist Knowledge of UML, C++ and JAVA

Maritime Operations Division DSTO Edinburgh SA

MOD 20 Open Architecture CMS Representative

Computing Environment Development - Generic Sensor Interface and test functions

Contribute to the development of a representative combat system computing environment based on open architecture design philosophies and development practices by designing and developing generic sensor interfaces and test functions. Participate in the research and design of generic information flows and interface functionality for a generic sensor interface into the combat system Research and use model driven tools to help with developing UML models and code generation. Participate in the development of UML models to represent information flow and interface functions of a generic sensor interface. Develop the interface code and test functions to test the design of the generic sensor interface.

Software Engineer/Computer Scientist Knowledge of UML, C++ and JAVA

Maritime Operations Division DSTO Edinburgh SA