A Vessel Detection Method Using Compact-Array HF Radar

A compact-array high-frequency surface wave radar equipped with two crossed-loop/monopole receiving antennas has been established for vessel detection. Using two compact antennas of the same design, this system can obtain two extremely similar sets of radar range-Doppler spectra over the same period. To detect vessel targets efficiently, the spectra of two antennas are enhanced by performing a principle component analysis. A wavelet-based approach is then applied to suppress clutter and reduce noise. The signal-to-noise ratios and signal-to-clutter ratios of the echoes are thus improved. Finally, an adaptive threshold is used to extract targets. The real radar data detection results are compared with Automatic Identification System data as well as those from the conventional ordered-statistic constant false alarm rate method. The feasibility and the validity of method proposed here are thus demonstrated.