Resource allocation for target detection in distributed MIMO radars

A distributed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radars using transmitters and receivers distributed over a large area can offer improved target detection, estimation, and tracking capabilities. In order to achieve best performance, it is necessary that the use of resources is optimized in such a radar system. In this paper, we consider the optimization of the transmit power of the transmitters for the purpose of target detection. We derive the optimal Neyman-Pearson detector without assuming whiteness of noise or independence of scattering and formulate the problem of optimizing the probability of detecting targets in an area of surveillance. Numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.