Bistatic reflectivity measurements at X, Ku, Ka and W-band frequencies

Data that realistically represents the phenomenology of bistatic reflectivity is essential to the design of radar systems intended to sense land based targets and low flying aircraft. A large database exists describing the response of X-band monostatic reflectivity, and limited data is available for X-band bistatic reflectivity. However, there is little data in the literature describing bistatic reflectivity at Ku-band or at millimeter wave bands. Radar designers often resort to either scaling, or using directly, the bistatic reflectivity of X-band to model this environment at the other frequencies. A need exists to further characterize clutter phenomenology in order to design and project the performance of current and future systems. This paper provides an overview of X, Ku, Ka and W-Band bistatic measurements made at the Research Development and Engineering Center at Redstone Arsenal. The data collection includes both on-axis (zero degrees) and off-axis (10 and 30 degrees) measurements of the bistatic reflectivity response. The radar instrumentation design for the data collection is briefly described. A summary of the reflectivity results from smooth sand terrain is presented, along with preliminary modeling and statistical analysis. This work has application to tactical missile systems that must complete their engagements at low altitudes in a clutter environment.