Integrated precision SAR targeting: a SAR targeting simulation

Abstract

Operational deficiencies exist in the current ability to perform high resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) targeting for precision strike missions in difficult electronic countermeasure (ECM) and anti-aircraft environments. Increasingly sophisticated enemy defenses require that fire control information be derived from highly maneuverable aircraft trajectories rather than traditional straight-and-level flight. In addition, target area, aspect information is needed to determine optimal attack approaches. These imaging and targeting conditions impose severe performance requirements on the sensor aircraft motion compensation system (MCS), and dictate the need for sophisticated algorithms to counteract ECM threats. This paper describes the development of a user friendly "Design Tool" for modeling and analysis of airborne radar system performance for SAR imaging and Precision SAR Targeting.