Design considerations for adaptive active phased-array 'multifunction' radars

Adaptive active phased-array radars are seen as the vehicle to address the current requirements for a true 'multifunction' radar system. Their ability to adapt to the environment and schedule their tasks in real time allows them to operate with performance levels well above those that can be achieved from conventional radar designs in addressing the current and future threats. Their ability to make effective use of all the available RF power and to minimise RF losses also makes them a good candidate for future very long range radars. This paper addresses the design of such radars in terms of the system and its component parts and the operational requirements that drive the design. The paper also considers some futures uses outside the military field.