A Critical Review on Military Radars

A Technical Seminar Report

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the

Degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION ENGINEERING

By

PENTA NIVAS 21EG504106

Under the Guidance of

Mr. M. MURALI KRISHNA
Assistant Professor

Department of ECE

Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering

ANURAG UNIVERSITY

Venkatapur(V), Ghatkesar(M), Medchal-Malkajgiri Dist-500088

2023-2024

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 ANURAG UNIVERSITY

Venkatapur(V),Ghatkesar(M), Medchal-Malkajgiri Dist-500088

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATION

ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the technical seminar report entitled “A Critical Review on
Military Radars” being submitted by PENTA NIVAS (21EG504106), in partial
fulfillment for the award of the Degree of Bachelor of Technology in Electronics
& Communication Engineering to the Anurag University, Hyderabad is a record
of bonafide work carried out under my guidance and supervision. The results
embodied in this project report have not been submitted to any other University or
Institute for the award of any Degree or Diploma.

Mr. P.PRAVEEN KUMAR Prof. N. MANGALA GOURI

Asst.prof. Head of the Department

Department of ECE Department of ECE

External Examiner

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This technical seminar is an acknowledgement to the inspiration, drive and

technical assistance contributed by many individuals. This project would have never seen
light of this day without the help and guidance we have received. We would like to express
our gratitude to all the people behind the screen who helped us to transform an idea into a
real application.

It’s our privilege and pleasure to express our profound sense of gratitude to Mr. P.
PRAVEEN KUMAR, Assistant Professor, Department of ECE for his guidance
throughout this dissertation work.

We express our sincere gratitude to Prof. N. MANGALA GOURI, Head of

Department, Electronics and Communication Engineering for her precious suggestions
for the successful completion of this project. She is also a great source of inspiration to
our work.

We would like to express our deep sense of gratitude to Dr. V. Vijaya kumar,
Dean School of Engineering, Anurag University for his tremendous support,
encouragement and inspiration. Lastly, we thank almighty, our parents, friends for their
constant encouragement without which this assignment would not be possible. We would
like to thank all the other staff members, both teaching and non- teaching, which have
extended their timely help and eased my work.

BY

PENTA NIVAS 21EG504106

i
 DECLARATION

We hereby declare that the result embodied in this technical seminar report entitled
“A Critical Review on Military Radars” is carried out by us during the year
2023-2024 for the partial fulfilment of the award of Bachelor of Technology in
Electronics and Communication Engineering, from ANURAG UNIVERSITY.
We have not submitted this project report to any other Universities / Institute for the
award of any degree.

BY
PENTA NIVAS 21EG504106 signature

ii
 ABSTRACT

RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) is basically a means of gathering

information about distant objects by transmitting electromagnetic waves at them and

analyzing the echoes. Radar has been employed on the ground, in air, on the sea and

in space. Radar finds a number of applications such as in airport traffic control,

military purposes, coastal navigation, meteorology and mapping etc. The development

of the radar technology took place during the World War II in which it was used for

detecting the approaching aircraft and then later for many other purposes which

finally led to the development of advanced military radars being used these days.

Military radars have a highly specialized design to be highly mobile and easily

transportable, by air as well as ground. specific military applications of radar systems.

The applications include surveillance‐based radar systems such as ground and area

surveillance radars, air surveillance radar and ground penetration radar and tracking

based radar systems such as weapon locating radar, ballistic missile defence radar,

mortar or shell‐tracking radar and so on.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Titles Page No. :
Acknowledgement i
Declaration ii
Abstract iii
CHAPTER-1 : Introduction 1
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Objective
CHAPTER 2: Literature Survey 4
2.1 Literature survey

CHAPTER 3: Technology Description 6

3.1 Technology description
3.2 SETS OF TERMINAL EQUIPMENT
3.3 OPERATING THE RADAR
3.4 SYSTEM FUNCTIONS
3.5 FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF RADAR
SUBSYSTEM

CHAPTER 4: History of Military Radar technology and

development 17

CHAPTER 5: Advantages of Military Radars 18

5.1.1 Early Warning Capability

5.1.2 Enhanced Situational Awareness

5.1.3Target Tracking and Identification
5.1.4 .Air Defense and Missile Warning:
5.1.5 Navigation Support
5.1.6Artillery Fire Control

CHAPTER 6: Limitations of Military Radars 19

6.1.1.Line of Sight and Terrain Obstacles

6.1.2. Limited Horizon Coverage:
6.1.3.Susceptibility to Jamming:

一
 6.1.4. Stealth Technology Counteraction
6.1.5. Weather Interference
6.1.6. Cost and Maintenance:

CHAPTER 7:Applications Military Radars 20

7.1.1. Air Defense:
7.1.2.Surveillance and Reconnaissance:
7.1.3. Target Tracking and Identification
. 7.1.4.Ground-Based Artillery Fire Control:

REFERENCES 21

二
 LIST OF FIGURES

Fig. No. Name of the figure Page No.

1 Battlefield Surveillance Radar‐Short Range 1

2 ELM‐2248 MF‐STAR. 2

3 Data flow in a typical military radar system 7

4 Block Diagram of Radar 9

5 Transmitter unit 11

三
 CHAPTER-1
Introduction
1.1.Introduction

Military radar should be an early warning, altering along with weapon control functions. It
is specially designed to be highly mobile and should be such that it can be deployed within
minutes. Military radar minimizes mutual interference of tasks of both air defenders and friendly
air space users. This will result in an increased effectiveness of the combined combat operations.
The command and control capabilities of the radar in combination with an effective ground-based
air defence provide maximum operational effectiveness with a safe, efficient and flexible use of the
air space. The increased operational effectiveness is obtained by combining the advantages of
centralized air defence management with decentralized air defence control.

Figure 1: Battlefield Surveillance Radar‐Short Range (BFSR‐SR). (Source: Arun Vishwakarma,

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/ File:BFSR‐SR_with_thermal_imager.JPG
In recent years, there have been a number of key developments in radar technology which
have enhanced radar capabilities in areas such as range, detection, identification, integration with
other sensors and adaptability to new missions, platforms and environments. As operators are
confronted by emerging threats and increasingly congested and contested operational
environments, these technological advancements are filling critical capability gaps; therefore, there
will be severe consequences for militaries which fail to adapt to recent developments. Ultimately,
understanding these complex challenges and making decisions on procurements and upgrades is
vital to national security.word,
 As we embark on this exploration, it becomes evident that radar technology is not merely a
technological artifact but a dynamic force shaping the landscape of defense strategies. In unveiling
the complexities of military radar, this report seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of its
role in contemporary defense scenarios, offering insights that resonate with both technical
enthusiasts and defense professionals alike. The subsequent sections will delve into the
fundamental principles of radar operation, the diverse types of military radars, signal processing
intricacies, and the broader implications of recent advancements.

Figure 2: ELM‐2248 MF‐STAR. (Source: Indian Navy,

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:ELM_2248_MFSTAR_radar_onboard_INS_Ko
lkata_(D63)_of_the_Indian_Navy.png. CC BY 2.5 IN.)

The objective of this paper is to delve into the evolutionary journey of military radar technology.
By tracing its historical origins from the early 20th century to the present day, we aim to provide a
comprehensive overview of the factors and milestones that have shaped radar's development. This
understanding is crucial for appreciating the technological advancements that have propelled radar
from its rudimentary forms to the sophisticated systems employed in modern defense operations
 1.2.Objective

In pursuit of these objectives, this report aspires to contribute to a deeper understanding of

military radar technology, catering to a diverse audience interested in the intersection of technology
and defence.
 Surveillance and Early Warning: Detecting and monitoring the airspace, waterways, or land
for potential threats.
 Target Tracking and Identification: Accurately tracking the movement of detected objects
to determine their speed, trajectory, and potential threat level.
 Air Defense: Facilitating the interception of incoming threats by guiding anti-aircraft
missiles or directing fighter aircraft to intercept hostile targets.
 Navigation and Guidance: Assisting military aircraft and ships in navigation, especially in
adverse weather conditions or low visibility
 Artillery Fire Control: Supporting ground-based operations by providing accurate
coordinates for artillery targeting. Improving the efficiency and accuracy of artillery fire by
adjusting aim based on real-time radar data.
 Strategic Missile Defense: Detecting and tracking ballistic missile launches to initiate
appropriate defense measures. Contributing to the overall missile defense architecture by
providing critical data for interception systems.
 Electronic Warfare and Countermeasures: Monitoring and identifying electronic signals,
including jamming attempts by adversaries. Implementing countermeasures to mitigate the
impact of electronic warfare on radar functionality.
 Search and Rescue Operations: Assisting in search and rescue missions by detecting
distress signals and locating individuals or vessels in need of assistance. Providing vital
information for coordinating rescue efforts in challenging environments.
 Integration with Other Sensors: Collaborating with other sensor systems, such as infrared
and electro-optical sensors, to enhance overall surveillance capabilities. Creating a
comprehensive and integrated picture of the battlespace for effective decision-making.
 Strategic Intelligence and Reconnaissance: Gathering intelligence by monitoring activities
in the operational area. Supporting reconnaissance efforts by providing valuable data for
assessing enemy capabilities and intentions.
 CHAPTER-2
Literature Survey

2.1 Literature survey

The literature survey on military radar technology is expansive and encompasses a wide range of
topics, reflecting the continual evolution and significance of radar in defense applications.
Researchers and experts have contributed valuable insights into various aspects, from fundamental
principles to cutting-edge advancements. This literature survey provides a brief overview of key
themes and notable contributions in the field of military radar.

Researchers such as Sir Robert Watson-Watt, credited as one of the founders of radar
technology, laid the groundwork for early developments. Literature from this period highlights the
role of radar in World War II, showcasing its strategic importance and impact on military tactics.

Numerous scholarly works delve into the fundamental principles of radar operation. Texts
by Skolnik (Introduction to Radar Systems) and Stimson (Introduction to Airborne Radar) are
seminal works that comprehensively cover radar theory, including transmission, reception, and
signal processing.

Literature exploring the diverse types of military radars and their applications is
extensive. Books such as "Introduction to Radar Systems" by Merrill I. Skolnik and "Radar
Handbook" by Merrill Skolnik provide comprehensive coverage of ground-based, naval, and
airborne radar systems. Journals like the "IEEE Transactions on Aerospace and Electronic
Systems" regularly publish research on radar applications, including air defense, target tracking,
and surveillance.

Advancements in radar signal processing techniques are extensively covered in works

such as "Principles of Modern Radar: Basic Principles" by Mark Richards and "Radar Signal
Processing and its Applications" by Pere Molinet. These texts delve into the intricacies of signal
processing, including Doppler processing, target detection, and range-Doppler mapping.

The integration of advanced technologies into military radar systems is a prominent theme in recent
literature. "Radar Systems Analysis and Design Using MATLAB" by Bassem R. Mahafza provides
insights into the use of simulation tools for radar system design. Additionally, journals like the
"Journal of Applied Remote Sensing" feature articles on the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence
(AI) and Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology in radar systems.
 Literature examining challenges faced by military radar systems and countermeasure
strategies includes works like "Electronic Warfare and Radar Systems Engineering Handbook" by
Stimson and Skolnik. These publications discuss issues such as jamming, stealth technology, and
the measures employed to overcome these challenges.

Anticipating future trends in military radar, works like "Radar Sensor Technology
XXIII" by Armin W. Doerry explore emerging technologies and their potential impact. Journals
like "IEEE Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine" regularly publish articles discussing the
trajectory of radar technology, including advancements in machine learning and sensor integration.

The literature survey reveals a rich tapestry of research and insights into military radar
technology. From its historical origins to the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, the body
of work underscores the dynamic nature of radar research and its critical role in shaping defense
strategies. The synergy of foundational principles, advanced technologies, and practical
applications forms the foundation for ongoing advancements in military radar systems.
 CHAPTER-3

3.1. Technology description

A typical military radar system can be split up into three parts:
1) Radar group
The radar group consists of antenna, mast unit, remote control, high tension unit, LO/AFC
(Local Oscillator/Automatic Frequency Control) unit, radar transmitter, radar receiver,
video processor, waveguide drier and IFF interrogator. The transmitter and receiver forms
the active part of the system. The integrated radar/IFF antenna is fitted on the collapsible
mast, mounted on the container. The container is connected by cable to the operator/control
shelter.
2) Shelter
Shelter contains display unit, processor unit, TV monitor, colour PPI (Plan Position
indicator), IFF control unit, air conditioner, battery charger with battery, Radio set with
antenna for data link, radio set with antenna for voice transmission i.e. communication,
filter box for radios.
3) Motor generator
The motor generator supplies the power to the whole radar system.

3.2. SETS OF TERMINAL EQUIPMENT

These are the sets of lightweight man portable units, which can be easily be stacked
together and consists of:
3.2.1. TDR (Target Data Receiver)
The TDR is either connected to a VHF-FM radio receiver or to a LCA to receive
transmitted target data. The TDR itself is intelligent, it performs parallax correction,
threat evaluation and it displays the result in a threat sequence, enabling the weapon
commander to make the correct decision.
3.2.2. Radio Receiver or LCA (Line Connection Adapter)
A radio receiver or LCA (with standard 2 wire telephone line) can be used to receive
target data. In principle any VHF-FM radio receiver can be used as a part of the
terminal equipment set. In case line connection is applied, no radio receiver is required.
An LCA connects the 2-wire telephone line to the TDR cable.
3.3.OPERATING THE RADAR

The operator’s main task is to watch the PPI (Plan Position Indicator) display, which
presents only moving targets in the normal mode (MTI-MODE). Detected target can be
assigned with the joystick-controlled order marker to initiate target tracking. Target
tracking is started and a track marker appears over the target echo. A label is displayed near
the track marker. The system computer in the processor unit processes data on this tracked
target. When an aircraft does not respond to the IFF interrogation it is considered to be
unknown.

3.4. SYSTEM FUNCTIONS

The main task of the radar is to provide individual weapon systems, after an alert, with
accurate target data. Therefore, the system has to perform certain functions as shown in the
following block diagram:

Data flow in a typical military radar system

Detection

The detection function is supported by the search radar, the MTI processor and the PPI.

On the PPI all moving targets, even those flying at low radial speeds, are displayed to the

operator.
 Automatic Target Tracking

After target detection a track is initiated by indicating the target video with the joystick

controlled order marker. The computer starts generating a track on the basis of the

joystick data. A target track marker is displayed on the PPI over the target echo. Search

radar information is gathered and extracted by video extractor as plots. The computer

evaluates the plot information, determines the position and speed of the target and

updates the generated track.

Identification

The identification function comprises: -

1) Interrogation of a target detected

2) Decoding IFF responses

3) Display of the decoded IFF responses on the PPI

Reporting Function to External Terminal Equipment

The data of the tracked targets is automatically converted to X and Y grid co-ordinates,

with respect to preset co-ordinates of the radar location. The data is included in digital

data message made up for all targets being tracked. The computer-originated message is

encoded and automatically transmitted by VHF-FM radio or by line communication.

IFF Alarm

The IFF alarm function alerts the operator that the IFF code setting has to be changed.

The valid code is displayed to the operator. The IFF codes and their validity period are

entered into the system in advance.

3.5.FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION OF RADAR SUBSYSTEM

Block Diagram of Radar

The detection of air targets is accomplished by the search radar, the video

processor and the colour PPI unit. The colour PPI unit provides the presentation of all

moving targets down to very low radial speeds on a PPI screen The search radar is pulse

Doppler radar (also called MTI radar) i.e. it is capable of distinguishing between the echo

from a fixed target and that of a moving target. The echoes from fixed target are

eliminated, so that the echoes from the moving targets are presented on the screen. The

great advantage of this is that it is possible to distinguish a moving target among a large

number of fixed targets, even when the echoes from these fixed targets are much stronger.

To achieve this the search radar makes use of the Doppler effect, if the target having a

certain radial speed with respect to the search antenna is hit by a series of transmitter

pulses from the search radar antenna, the change in range between this target and antenna

is expressed by successive echo pulses in phase shifts with respect to the phase of the

transmitter pulses

Block Diagram of Radar

The main units of radar subsystem are: -

3.5.1 HT Unit The high tension unit converts the phase mains voltage into a DC supply

voltage of about in the order of kV for the transmitter unit.

3.5.2 Transmitter Unit The transmitter unit comprises:

a) Modulator TRANSMITTER UNIT Modulator SubModulator Magnetron AFC Control

Circuit LO+AFC UNIT Lock Pulse Mixer AFC Discriminator SSLO COHO RECEIVER

UNIT PPI UNIT BJD Image Rejection Mixer IF Preamplifier MTI Main Amplifier Linear

Detector PSD Linear main amplifier VIDEO PROCESSOR ANTENNA

The modulator consists of the following components:

 Start Pulse Amplifier The start pulse amplifier unit comprises:

An amplifier which amplifies the pulses from the video processor, a thyratron for

discharging the pulse-shaping network. These pulses then trigger a monostable

multivibrator.

 Pulse Unit The pulse unit comprises of pulse shaping network and pulse transformer.

The pulse discharge of the pulse- shaping network will occur only if the magnetron

impedance transformed by the pulse transformer is about equal to the characteristic

impedance of the pulse-shaping network. The thyratron diodes ensure that the remaining

negative voltage, caused by the mismatch, on the pulse-forming network is directed to

earth. If the mismatch is too large, capacitor is charged by the discharge current to such an

extent that relay (reflection coefficient too high) is activated. This relay switches off the

high voltage. b) Magnetron The magnetron is a self-oscillating RF power generator. It is

supplied by the modulator by high voltage pulses, whereupon it produces band pulses. The

generated RF pulses are applied to the receiver unit. The PRF of the magnetron pulses is

determined by the synchronization circuit in the video processor, which applies start pulses

to the sub-modulator of the transmitter unit.

This sub modulator issues start pulses of suitable amplitude to trigger the thyratron in the

modulator.

On being triggered the modulator, which is supplied by the h high tension unit, produces

high voltage pulses. As a magnetron is self oscillating some kind of frequency control is

required. The magnetron is provided with a tuning mechanism to adjust the oscillating

frequency between certain limits. This tuning mechanism is operated by an electric motor

being part of AFC control circuit. Together with circuits in LO+AFC unit, a frequency

control loop is created, thus maintaining a frequency difference i.e. the intermediate

frequency of the receiver between the output frequency of the SSLO and the magnetron

output frequency. The magnetron unit comprises a coaxial tunable magnetron, servo motor

driving an adjustable plunger.

Transmitter Unit

3.5.3 LO+AFC Unit

The LO+AFC unit determines the frequency of the transmitted radar pulses. It comprises

of: -

1) Lock pulse mixer AFC circuit and servo amplifier Readout Module Start Pulse

Amplifier Pulse Unit ARC Sensor RF Power Sensor

2) AFC discriminator

3) Solid State Local Oscillator (SSLO)

 4) Coherent Oscillator (COHO)

The SSLO generates a very stable low power RF signal lower than the desired transmitter

frequency. This signal is split in two branches and distributed as local oscillator signal to

two mixers.

These are: -

1) Image rejection mixer in the receiver unit

2) Lock pulse mixer

The lock pulse mixer mixes the SSLO signal with a fraction of the magnetron power. The

mixer output consists of AFC lock pulse, provided that the magnetron is correctly tuned.

The AFC lock pulses are applied to an AFC discriminator, which checks their frequency.

If the frequency of the AFC lock pulses is unequal to IF, a positive or negative control

voltage for the AFC control circuit in the transmitter unit is developed, to force the

magnetron frequency to the desired value. Thus the AFC loop is closed. The AFC lock

pulses are also applied to COHO. The COHO outputs a signal with a frequency of AFC

lock pulse, and is synchronized with the phase of each transmitter pulse. In this way a

phase reference signal is obtained required by the phase sensitive detector in the receiver

unit.

3.5.4 Receiver Unit

The receiver unit converts the received RF echo signals to IF level and detects the IF

signals. By detecting the IF signals in two different ways, two receiver channels are

obtained called MTI channel and linear channel. The RF signals received by radar

antenna are applied to the low noise amplifier. The image rejection mixer mixes the

amplified signals with the SSLO signal, to obtain an IF signal. After amplification the IF

signal is split into two branches viz. a MTI channel and a linear channel. A fraction of

amplified received signal is branched off and applied to broadband jamming detector

(BJD). In the MTI channel, the IF signal is amplified again by the MTI main amplifier,
 and applied to the Phase Sensitive Detector (PSD). The second signal applied to the PSD

is the phase reference signal from the COHO. The output of the PSD is the function of

the phase difference between the two inputs to the PSD. The polarity pulses indicate

whether the phase difference is positive or negative. The phase differences between the

COHO signal and IF echo signals from a fixed target is constant whereas those between

the COHO signals and IF echo signals from a moving target is subject to change. The

PSD output signal is applied to the canceller in video processor. In the linear channel, the

IF signal is amplified again by the linear main amplifier and subsequently applied to the

linear detector. The linear detector output signals are passed on to the colour PPI drive

unit.

3.5.5 Antenna

The search antenna is a parabolic reflector, rotating with a high speed. In the focus of the

reflector is a radiator, which emits the RF pulses, and which receives the RF echo pulses.

In the waveguide is the polarization shifter, which causes the polarization of the RF

energy to be either horizontally or circularly.

3.5.6 Video processor

The video processor processes the MTI video from the MTI receiver channel, to make

the video suitable for the presentation on the colour PPI screen.

3.5.7 Protection Units

There are some protection units such as arc sensor to protect the magnetron against arcing

and RF power sensor maintaining the RF power. prepare themselves to engage the ‘best’

target for their specific weapon location. A magnetron radar system is relatively simple

and reliable. As a consequence, minimum maintenance is required and thus the system

life cycle costs can be kept low.

 CHAPTER-4
4.1. History of Military Radars technology and developments

The history of military radar technology is a captivating narrative that spans over a
century, marked by key developments and innovations that have revolutionized
defense capabilities. The roots of radar can be traced back to the 1920s, with initial
experiments in radio wave propagation. Sir Robert Watson-Watt's pioneering work in
the 1930s laid the foundation for practical radar systems. The advent of World War II
saw rapid advancements, as the urgent need for detecting incoming enemy aircraft
propelled radar into the forefront of military technology.

World War II marked a turning point for radar technology. The British Chain
Home radar system played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain, providing early
warning of incoming Luftwaffe raids. The innovation of airborne radar facilitated
night bombing raids and improved navigation, giving Allied forces a significant
strategic advantage. This period saw the emergence of radar as a decisive tool in
military operations.

After World War II, radar technology continued to evolve. The Cold War era
witnessed advancements such as the development of radar systems for ballistic missile
early warning and the integration of radar into air defense networks. Ground-based,
naval, and airborne radar systems proliferated, contributing to both strategic and
tactical military capabilities.

The 1960s to the 1990s witnessed significant technological innovations. The

introduction of phased-array radar technology, exemplified by the AN/FPS-85 at the
Ballistic Missile Early Warning System site, represented a leap forward in radar
design. The integration of computers into radar systems enhanced signal processing
and improved target tracking capabilities.

The Gulf War of 1990-1991 showcased the integration of radar technology

into precision-guided munitions and highlighted the importance of radar in modern
warfare. The evolution of Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology
further enhanced radar capabilities, offering increased flexibility, reliability, and
reduced vulnerability to jamming.

In recent years, military radar technology has seen advancements in cognitive

radar, incorporating artificial intelligence for adaptive and autonomous operation. The
integration of radar with other sensors and communication systems has further
enhanced the overall situational awareness of military forces. The use of radar in
unmanned systems and the exploration of quantum radar technologies represent the
cutting edge of current research.The history of military radar technology is a
testament to its enduring significance in shaping the course of warfare.

17
 CHAPTER 5
5.1Advantages of Military Radars
Military radars confer a multitude of advantages, making them indispensable assets in
modern defense strategies. Here's an overview of the key advantages:
5.1.1 Early Warning Capability:
Radars provide early detection of incoming threats, offering vital time for response
and strategic decision-making.
Early warning capabilities are crucial in air defense, allowing forces to prepare for
potential aerial threats, including missiles and enemy aircraft.
5.1.2 Enhanced Situational Awareness:
Military radars contribute significantly to situational awareness by continuously
monitoring the operational environment.
Real-time tracking and identification of objects, both friend and foe, provide a
comprehensive picture of the battlespace.
5.1.3 Target Tracking and Identification:
Radars excel in tracking the movement of targets, determining their speed,
trajectory, and potential threat level.
Advanced signal processing enables accurate identification and classification of
various targets, essential for effective response coordination.
5.1.4 .Air Defense and Missile Warning:
Radars play a pivotal role in air defense systems, guiding anti-aircraft missiles and
directing fighter aircraft to intercept hostile targets.
They serve as critical components in missile warning systems, detecting and tracking
ballistic missile launches for timely response.
5.1.5. Navigation Support:
Military radars assist aircraft and ships in navigation, providing accurate and
reliable information in adverse weather conditions or low visibility.
Precise guidance during take-off, landing, and in-flight operations enhances overall
safety and operational efficiency.
5.1.6. Artillery Fire Control:
Radars contribute to artillery fire control by providing accurate coordinates for
targeting.

18
 CHAPTER 6

6.1 Limitations of Military Radars

While military radars offer a wide array of advantages, they also exhibit
certain limitations that impact their effectiveness in various operational scenarios.
Understanding these limitations is crucial for developing strategies to address
challenges in radar technology. Here are key limitations:

6.1.1.Line of Sight and Terrain Obstacles:

Issue: Radars rely on line-of-sight propagation, making them susceptible to terrain
obstacles such as mountains or buildings.
Impact:Limited visibility behind obstacles reduces coverage, potentially creating
blind spots in radar surveillance.
6.1.2. Limited Horizon Coverage:
Issue:The Earth's curvature limits the radar's ability to detect low-flying or distant
targets beyond the radar horizon.
Impact:Misses on potential threats approaching from afar, particularly in naval and
airborne radar systems.
6.1.3.Susceptibility to Jamming:
Issue:Radars can be vulnerable to electronic warfare, where adversaries use jamming
techniques to disrupt or deceive radar signals.
Impact:Reduced accuracy and effectiveness as jamming can obscure or generate
false targets.
6.1.4. Stealth Technology Counteraction:
Issue:Advancements in stealth technology aim to minimize radar cross-section,
making objects harder to detect.
Impact:Reduced radar effectiveness against stealth aircraft and vessels,
compromising early warning capabilities.
6.1.5. Weather Interference:
Issue:Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog can absorb or scatter
radar signals, affecting performance.
6.1.6. Cost and Maintenance:
Issue: Advanced radar systems can be expensive to procure and maintain.
Impact: Budget constraints may limit widespread deployment, and maintenance
demands can affect system availability.

19
 CHAPTER 7
7.1Applications of Military Radar
Military radar systems find diverse applications across various operational domains,
enhancing situational awareness, aiding strategic decision-making, and contributing to the
overall effectiveness of defense operations. Here are key applications of military radar:

7.1.1. Air Defense:

Radar is fundamental to air defense systems, providing early warning and tracking
capabilities against incoming enemy aircraft or missiles.

7.1.2.Surveillance and Reconnaissance:

Radars are extensively used for continuous surveillance of airspace, ground, and
maritime environments.

7.1.3. Target Tracking and Identification:

Radar systems excel in tracking the movement of targets, determining their speed,
trajectory, and classification.
7.1.4.Ground-Based Artillery Fire Control:
Description: Radars contribute to artillery fire control by providing accurate
coordinates for targeting.

20
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technology on military radar systems," 27th International Spring Seminar on
Electronics Technology: Meeting the Challenges of Electronics Technology
Progress, 2004., Bankya, Bulgaria, 2004, pp. 557-563 vol.3, doi:
10.1109/ISSE.2004.1490878.
keywords: {Information technology;Radar tracking;Radar signal
processing;Information systems;Space technology;Intelligent sensors;Target
recognition;Target tracking;Surveillance;Communication system control},
3. A. Aprile, A. Mauri, D. Meledandri, T. Macri Pellizzeri and N. Pendeggia,
"GRIFO Radar: Advances and developments in high-resolution modes for an
expert avionic radar for fighters," 2008 IEEE Radar Conference, Rome, Italy,
2008, pp. 1-5, doi: 10.1109/RADAR.2008.4720721.
keywords: {Aerospace electronics;Doppler radar;Radar applications;Radar
tracking;Military aircraft;System buses;Weapons;Target tracking;Signal
processing;Signal resolution;Radar systems;SAR;ISAR},
4. Huaiyi Wang, J. Johnson, C. Baker, Lixin Ye and Chenglin Zhang, "On spectrum
sharing between communications and air traffic control radar systems," 2015
IEEE Radar Conference (RadarCon), Arlington, VA, USA, 2015, pp. 1545-1550,
doi: 10.1109/RADAR.2015.7131242.
keywords: {Radar;Interference;Radar
antennas;Receivers;OFDM;Communication systems;Throughput;spectrum
sharing;air traffic control radar;LTE system;interference to noise
ratio;performance degradation},

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