The operation and performance of a multi-frequency HF Surfacewave Radar

The challenge to achieve robust operational performance for a HFSWR in a complex environment requires the combination of an effective operator interface with automated radar control processes. The development of a radar system that simultaneously transmits and processes signals on multiple frequency channels provides the basic detection capability that is necessary to counter severe natural and man-made electrical interference in the HF band. Mission based radar control profiles can be defined for specific combinations of environmental conditions and targets of interest. The radar operator is able to select from these profiles allowing automated radar control functions to manage the real time aspects of the radar including the optimal selection of frequencies using a wideband Frequency Monitoring System. This paper details the operational aspects of this production standard HF Surfacewave radar and provides examples of air and surface track performance and characterisation of target RCS variation with aspect angle and frequency. These examples are taken from data recordings for selected durations of the radar operating at its test site.