Modern radar techniques encompass a variety of advanced technologies and methodologies aimed at improving detection, tracking and imaging capabilities. These techniques include phased array radar, which uses multiple antenna elements to electronically steer the radar beam without physically moving the antenna, allowing rapid scanning and flexible beamforming. Another technique is synthetic aperture radar (SAR), which creates high-resolution images by processing radar echoes received from multiple locations as the radar platform moves. Additionally, frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar is used for range-Doppler processing, enabling simultaneous measurement of target range and velocity with high accuracy.
Different radar tracking techniques include several approaches tailored to specific operational needs. These include track-time-scan (TWS), which allows radar systems to track multiple targets simultaneously by updating their positions in real time. Another technique is multiple hypothesis tracking (MHT), which manages uncertainties by maintaining and updating multiple possible tracks for each target, adapting to changing conditions and sensor inputs. Kalman filtering is also commonly used for radar tracking, providing optimal estimation of target states based on noisy measurements over time.
The principles of modern radar systems emphasize advanced signal processing, integration of multiple sensor inputs (such as radar, infrared, and optical), and adaptive algorithms to improve detection, accuracy and reliability. These systems often use digital signal processing techniques for noise reduction, clutter removal, and target classification. Additionally, modern radar principles focus on network-oriented operations, where radar systems collaborate and share information in real-time to provide a complete situational awareness picture. Additionally, radar systems are increasingly being designed with enhanced electronic warfare capabilities to counter jamming and other threats in complex operational environments.