Test and evaluation of radar systems operating in the modern electromagnetic spectrum

Abstract

Modern radar systems are critical infrastructure in defence and civilian applications. In the defence domain, modern radars operate in a highly contested, congested, and constrained electromagnetic environment. In the context of operating in this challenging environment, the challenges across the system life cycle are examined in testing modern radar systems which are characterised by advanced features, such as multi-function capability, advanced digital signal processing, high resolution, wideband, and frequency agile systems that incorporate phase array and active electronically scanned array capabilities. The challenges and key objectives in testing these sophisticated modern radar systems are highlighted, as well as the enabling technologies that can support Test & Evaluation of such systems. An architecture for Hardware-in-the-Loop testing, which leverages modular and flexible commercial-of-the-shelf hardware, is proposed together with an application software that allows the testing of radar with a radar target generator.