Measured forward-scatter sea clutter at near-zero grazing angle: analysis of spectral and statistical properties

To develop forward-scatter radar (FSR) systems for use in maritime applications, a fundamental understanding of the operating environment is required. Currently, there is a lack of published experimental FSR sea clutter data at very low (near-zero) grazing angle over the sea. This data is necessary for the development of FSR systems for maritime applications. Therefore to facilitate further investigation, clutter data for such a system has been recorded at frequencies of 7.5 and 24 GHz with static, medium gain antennas for low sea states 1-3 on the Douglas scale. Analysis of forward scatter propagation phenomena is presented, and spectral and statistical analysis of forward-scatter clutter is performed.