Experimental Seaborne Passive Radar

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Radar Systems
• Signal Processing

Background:

• Passive bistatic radar leverages existing transmitters (illuminators of opportunity), unlike active radar systems.
• Ground-based passive radar technology is mature, but applications on moving platforms remain an emerging area.
• Seaborne applications present unique challenges for passive radar systems due to platform motion and environmental factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate an experimental seaborne passive radar system.
• To assess the feasibility of using digital radio (DAB) and digital television (DVB-T) signals for maritime target detection.
• To analyze clutter characteristics and demonstrate real-world target detection capabilities from a moving platform.

Main Methods:

• Development of an experimental passive radar system designed for seaborne deployment.
• Utilization of digital radio (DAB) and digital television (DVB-T) signals as illuminators of opportunity.
• Conducting clutter analysis and performing target detection experiments in a maritime environment.

Main Results:

• Successful detection of real-life targets was achieved using the experimental seaborne passive radar system.
• Comprehensive clutter analysis was performed, providing insights into the seaborne environment.
• The system demonstrated the potential of leveraging digital broadcast signals for maritime surveillance.

Conclusions:

• The experimental seaborne passive radar system effectively utilizes DAB and DVB-T signals for target detection.
• This research validates the viability of passive radar technology for moving platforms in maritime settings.
• Further development could enhance capabilities for naval and coastal surveillance.