Novel adaptive generalized likelihood ratio detector with application to maneuvering target tracking

A novel adaptive jump-detection algorithm is introduced for scenarios involving abrupt changes in the inputs to linear systems, such as those that might occur in tracking maneuvering targets. Improving upon the standard generalized likelihood ratio (GLR) detector, presented over two decades ago, the new algorithm is characterized by increased robustness with respect to uncertainties in the system input, which frequently arise in the context of target tracking applications. The performance of the new algorithm is demonstrated in an endgame scenario involving an interceptor missile and a maneuerable tactical ballistic missile. An extensive Monte Carlo simulation study is used to demonstrate the superiority of the method over the conventional GLR method in terms of its much smaller observed false alarm probability, which actually agrees with the theoretical value. The new algorithm also facilitates a correct isolation of the abrupt change, is consistent in the usual statistical sense, and generally proves more reliable.