Analysis of the radar return of micro-UAVs in flight

This paper presents an analysis of the radar signature of micro-UAVs whilst in flight when subjected to realistic environmental flight conditions. These highly dynamic signatures have been found to be significantly different from modelled signatures or those expected from the RCS when measured in a benign environment. The time varying radar returns of different micro-UAV targets, measured in different conditions, are presented and characterized. Also the varying characteristics of the micro-Doppler rotor returns are analyzed. The impact of results on radar systems design is discussed.