Low Signal to Noise Ratio Radar Technology Investigation

ABSTRACT: ARTEMIS Inc. proposes to develop a low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) radar sensor that can be produced at low-cost and provide high range and Doppler resolution with multi-mode capabilities, including SAR, GMTI, and HRR.The radar seeker will need to search, detect, and track multiple targets, obtain high probability of detection (Pd) and low probability of false-alarm (Pfa), while maintaining a low-probability-of-intercept (LPI).A trade-off study of various radar concepts is proposed, to consider multiple options for achieving the program goals.This includes examining different waveforms, different mechanisms for signal reception and signal correlation, different signal processing methods for pulse compression and target detection and tracking, and additional radar parameters such as bandwidth and operational frequencies.Following the trade-off study, we design a complete radar system, including radar architecture, antennas and transmitters, and performance calculations.Through simulation, we will demonstrate the expected radar performance, and compare it to conventional radar systems.This work is based on our innovative, low-SWaP SAR systems which operate at multiple frequencies and modes (SAR and GMTI).The goal is an innovative, compact, long-range, multi-mode, high-frequency, low SNR radar that enhances the performance, robustness, and survivability of precision terminal guided weapons.; BENEFIT: The final result of the Phase I Low-SNR Radar Seeker SBIR will be a detailed design and performance model for the low-SNR radar seeker, based on our multi-band SlimSAR technology and on the surveys, trade studies, and modeling conducted in Phase I.The development of small, affordable radar technology with performance on par with, or better than, systems many times its size and cost will encourage adoption of small SWaP radar technology.The new radar will not only fit on much smaller aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), but it will also be much easier to manufacture. This will provide the capabilities of radar to new markets that were not achievable with previous radar designs.The low-SNR radar will be a sensor for weapons, manned aircraft, and UAS.Applications include UAS navigation, collision avoidance, weather/environmental monitoring, law enforcement, etc.