Phased array radar and the detection of `low observables´

Solid-state active phased array radar is examined in the context of the widely reported developments in the reduction of the radar cross sections of military targets. It is shown that this form of radar makes the optimum use of power and aperture and is an increasingly attractive approach for the detection of small targets. The possibilities for the generation of high powers with solid-state phased arrays are demonstrated, and the potential performance of a solid-state active phased array radar is presented. Such related technical issues as high power sources, efficiency, duty factor, and heat removal, together with the increased levels of clutter associated with high sensitivity radar, are discussed