Multiple Image Coordinate Extraction (MICE) Technique for Rapid Targeting of Precision Guided Munitions

The effectiveness of weapons guided by the Global Positioning System (GPS) often depends on the accuracy of the target coordinates provided as aimpoints. However, current geolocation methods using GPS, pointing angles, and terrain elevation are only accurate to 100 m at best, which is inadequate for precision strike. This article discusses an APL-developed technique called Multiple Image Coordinate Extraction (MICE) that can use unmanned air vehicle (or other equivalent) imagery to pinpoint target coordinates to within about a 5-m CEP (circular error probable). By applying principles of photogrammetry to determine the locations and sizes of objects, MICE can be easily integrated into imaging platforms.