Radar sea clutter: Recent progress and future challenges

This paper reviews current developments in sea clutter modelling, covering both statistical models, mainly based on empirical observations, and modelling of electromagnetic scattering from simulated sea surfaces. The latest developments in detection processing are also discussed, within the framework provided by these models. The emphasis throughout the paper is on the modelling of low grazing angle microwave radar backscatter in relation to airborne and surface maritime surveillance radar. As well as reviewing current knowledge in these areas the paper also highlights areas where further research is needed.