How does terrain following radar work?

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How does terrain following radar work?

The Terrain Following Radar (TFR) and Terrain Following System (TFS) are crucial components in modern military aircraft designed for low-altitude flight operations. Here’s how they work:

terrain following radar work

Terrain Following Radar (TFR) works by emitting radar signals toward the ground and detecting reflections that bounce back. These radar signals are typically emitted at a slight downward angle relative to the aircraft, allowing the system to “see” the terrain ahead. The radar receiver on board the aircraft captures the reflected signals, which contain information about the distance to the ground and any obstacles or features in the plane’s path.

does terrain following radar work

The Terrain Following System (TFS) integrates data from the TFR with the aircraft’s flight controls and autopilot. Based on the received radar data, the TFS automatically adjusts the aircraft’s altitude and flight path to follow the contours of the terrain below. This is crucial for military aircraft that fly at low altitudes to avoid detection by enemy radar and ground defenses while maintaining a safe distance from obstacles such as mountains, hills and towers.

The TFS continuously monitors the terrain ahead and makes rapid adjustments to the aircraft’s altitude, ensuring that it remains at a predetermined height above ground level. This allows the aircraft to fly at low altitudes with reduced risk of collision or detection. The system is capable of making precise altitude adjustments in real time, even in difficult terrain and variable weather conditions, thereby improving the aircraft’s survivability and mission effectiveness in tactical operations.

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