Automated UAS Aeromagnetic Surveys to Detect MBRL Unexploded Ordnance

Authors

Alex Nikulin, Ph.D., Binghamton University - The State University of New YorkFollow
Timothy deSmet, Ph.D., Binghamton University - The State University of New YorkFollow
Andrii Puliaiev, Ukrainian Multirotor TechnologiesFollow
Vasyl Zhurakhov, State Science Research Institute of Armament and Military Technology Testing and CertificationFollow
Sofia Fasullo, Binghamton University - The State University of New YorkFollow
Gabriel Chen, Binghamton University - The State University of New YorkFollow
Isaac Spiegel, Binghamton University - The State University of New YorkFollow
Kaylee Cappuccio, Binghamton University - The State University of New YorkFollow

Abstract

Unguided Multiple Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL) systems are limited-accuracy, high-impact artillery systems meant to deliver barrages of explosive warheads across a wide area of attack. High rates of failure of MBRL rockets on impact and their wide area of ballistic dispersion result in a long-term unexploded ordnance (UXO) concern across large areas where these systems have been deployed. We field tested a newly-developed UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle)-based aeromagnetic platform to remotely detect and identify unexploded 122 mm rockets of the widely-used BM-21 MBRL. We developed an algorithm that allows near real-time analysis, mapping, and interpretations of magnetic datasets in the field and, as a result, rapid identification of anomalies associated with both surfaced and buried MBRL items of UXO. We tested a number of sensor configurations and calibrated the system for optimal signal-to-noise data acquisition over varying site types and in varying environmental conditions. The use of automated surveying allowed us to significantly constrain the search area for UXO removal or in-place destruction. The results of our field trials conclusively demonstrated that implementation of this geophysical system significantly reduces labor and time costs associated with technical assessment of UXO-contaminated sites in post-conflict regions.

Recommended Citation

Nikulin, Ph.D., Alex; deSmet, Ph.D., Timothy; Puliaiev, Andrii; Zhurakhov, Vasyl; Fasullo, Sofia; Chen, Gabriel; Spiegel, Isaac; and Cappuccio, Kaylee (2020) "Automated UAS Aeromagnetic Surveys to Detect MBRL Unexploded Ordnance," The Journal of Conventional Weapons Destruction: Vol. 24 : Iss. 1 , Article 13.
Available at: https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/cisr-journal/vol24/iss1/13