Analytical Model of the Passive Millimeter Wave Scenario

A common requirement of missile delivery systems is an ECM resistant, all- weather, day/night capability. The all-weather, day/night requirement leads to millimeter waves as a reasonable solution. The current proliferation of ARM devices favors passive rather than active modes. An analytical Model of the passive scenario predicts that atmospheric attenuation is not an important consideration, and essentially equivalent performance can be obtained over the entire spectrum from 30 to 140 GHz. The operational availability of the full millimeter wave spectrum for radiometric solutions to tactical weapon sensor requirements, represents a new dimension of opportunity. Other equally important sensor system implications are predicted by the analytical Model. Many have a direct bearing on capabilities of interest to the Air Force Armament Directorate, Eglin AFB. Verification of Model predictions is an important first step. The Phase I Work Plan addresses both the requirements and methods for verification by direct measurement. Active participation by the research staff of the Armament Directorate, Eglin AFB is needed in order to realize the full potential of this effort, by focusing the direction of this investigation on Air Force missions and their future tactical weapon sensor requirements.