Integrated mission planning architectures for unmanned underwater vehicles

Deployment and operational capability of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) can be enhanced by leveraging mission planning technologies that have been developed for cruise missiles (CM), unmanned air vehicle (UAV) control, and space applications. The authors discuss the architecture, design philosophy, and application of command, control, communication, classification, and information (C⁴I) technology to future UUV operations. They provide a framework of the approach for an integrated UUV and mission planning architecture. This approach has resulted from past CM and UAV work, but is tailored to the unique UUV environment. In particular, the unique UUV environment consists of low bandwidth communications, extended mission times, and limited space available for the UUV planning and controlling element (UPCE). The architecture shown illustrates a low-cost/low-risk functional approach to the planning, control, and monitoring of UUV systems. The intent of this architecture is to provide the UUV with sufficient autonomy to require minimum attention by the mission planner and controller