Increased ambiguity resolution in digital radio frequency receivers

Resolving radar signal ambiguities in digital radio frequency receivers using traditional identification (ID) techniques remains challenging. Parametric comparison of common received signal features such as radio frequency, pulse width, pulse repetition interval and angle-of-arrival can lead to either (1) multiple emitters producing a single ID, or (2) a single emitter producing multiple IDs. This work considers the use of radio frequency-distinct native attribute (RF-DNA) features to augment traditional parametric comparison approaches to augment emitter ID and reduce ambiguity. Applying RF-DNA techniques to emitter identification provides a new way of reducing or removing this ambiguity. Previously only used for communications signals, we demonstrate the concept of using RF-DNA on simulated radar signals. Initial results indicate up to 85% accuracy in determining an ambiguous pulse descriptor word was transmitted from a digitally reproduced source.