Robust Light-Weight Doppler Weather Radar

Agile RF Systems LLC has assembled a team of experts in phased array systems, weather radar, and hard target search and track signal processing to conduct a comprehensive trade study and determine the best antenna and system architecture for the USAF Portable Doppler Radar (PDR) mission. These experts have designed and fielded several 1+ meter class radars specifically for weather surveillance using phased array and conventional gimbaled reflector antennas. The team has also fielded tracking software that is deployed worldwide in USAF and other US military forces surveillance radars. Using this expertise, trades on mechanical and electronic scan, single versus dual polarization, single versus dual frequency, single versus multiple faces, and multifunction to include air surveillance versus single weather detection have been completed to make unambiguous recommendations for future PDR implementation. The study has concluded that a hybrid solution at X-band meets all USAF requirements. Dual polarization is included to simplify system calibration and improve measurement accuracy with minimal impact to the system cost. Last, a preliminary bill of materials has been assembled that is substantially less than the target system price of $500K providing ample room to cover integration and tests costs while meeting the USAF price objective.