Ship detection in SAR medium resolution imagery for maritime surveillance: Algorithm validation using AIS data

In this paper paper we address performances of ship detection algorithms in medium resolution SAR imagery. An automatic validation approach based on coastal AIS data allows to evaluate detectors efficiency. Detection capabilities remain sensitive to dataset features such as SAR imaging characteristics, meteorological conditions or vessel size. The influence of this different key parameters is fully assessed in this study. This analysis is valuable for operational services, allowing to select the most appropriate type of data for different applications in maritime surveillance.