LONG TERM GOALS. Identification of mine-like contacts (MLCs) is a pressing fleet need. During MCM operations, sonar contacts are classified as mine-like if they are sufficiently similar to signatures of mines. Each contact classified as mine-like must be identified as a mine or not a mine. During MCM operations in littoral areas, tens or even hundreds of MLCs must be identified. This time consuming identification process is performed by EOD divers or ROVs, and is the rate limiting step in many MCM operations. A method to provide rapid visual identification of MLCs would dramatically speed up such operations. Acquisition of Laser Line Scan sensors for MLC identification is currently planned to support both Air Mine Counter-Measures (AMCM) and Surface Mine Counter-Measures (SMCM) operations.
