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About

Michael V. Scanlon is a defense researcher specializing in acoustic sensing, autonomous robotic systems, and battlefield surveillance technologies, primarily affiliated with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) in Adelphi, Maryland. His work has focused on developing innovative acoustic array systems mounted on small robotic platforms capable of detecting and localizing impulsive noise events — such as gunshots and human activity — in complex urban environments, addressing a critical gap in military situational awareness where traditional line-of-sight sensors fall short. Scanlon's most influential contribution, "Detection and Localization with an Acoustic Array on a Small Robotic Platform in Urban Environments" (2003, 16 citations), established foundational methods for robot-based acoustic detection that extended across multiple follow-on studies. His research portfolio spans ground-based robots, aerial balloon platforms, and soldier-robot teaming concepts, reflecting a broad systems-level vision for networked battlefield sensing under programs such as the Future Combat System and Networked Sensors for the Future Force. His 2000 work on voice detection through non-line-of-sight acoustic sensing was particularly forward-thinking, anticipating the growing importance of autonomous intelligence-gathering in denied environments. Collectively, Scanlon's contributions have helped shape the Army's approach to integrating multisensor robotic systems into modern combat operations.