Theoretical Minimum Detection Range for a Rapidly Moving Target and an Experimental Evaluation

Abstract

There have been considerable challenges with radar systems for detecting high-speed projectiles at a short range. This necessitates the presentation of a guideline for the minimum detection range that will guarantee detection of a target. In this letter, the detection range for a rapidly flying target is studied based on the characteristics of the target, such as speed and launch angle, and radar parameters such as pulse repetition interval, dwell time, beamwidth, and so on. The derived equation was applied to parametric studies for different characteristics of targets in order to investigate the influential parameters that affect the minimum detection range. A field test using the radar system's prototype was performed to evaluate the validity of the proposed equation.