Modeling and validation of modulated characteristics for aircraft rotating structure in the air surveillance radars

A practical parametric model (PPM), described the modulated characteristics for aircraft rotating structure in the air surveillance radars is presented and validated. Firstly, the scattering mechanism of the modulated signatures generated by aircraft rotating structure is described systematically based on the optical electromagnetism scattering theories. Secondly, the PPM is proposed based on some theoretical parametric models, the radar system and aircraft rotating structure. The relationships between the modulated signatures of the air surveillance radar echoes and the physical rotating structures of aircraft are analyzed. Thirdly, the PPM is validated by analysis of different conditions echoes including aircraft configuration and orientation, radar parameters and operation. The results demonstrate that the relatively unchangeable modulated feature, which is corresponding to the rotating structure of helicopters and propellers, can be described with the PPM, and can be reliably and steadily extracted from the echoes of the air surveillance radars.