Simultaneous detection and target motion analysis from conventional passive beamforming outputs

Conventionally, source location estimation from passive sonar beams needs three successive steps: detection, data association and tracking, and target motion analysis (TMA). An alternate approach is presented for considering the problem from a global point of view. The maximum likelihood estimator of source position is shown to consist of maximizing the integral of beamforming outputs on the bearing history. This method allows a large gain in index of detection allowing detection and TMA even on 0-dB SNR sources. Cramer-Rao lower bound and simulations are in good agreement