Electromagnetic environment synthesis - a tool for ESM system development and support

A review is given of electromagnetic environment synthesis techniques that are applicable to electronic warfare support measures (ESM) equipment. The approach described is based on the use of the most desirable features offered from a combination of mathematical modelling and RF signal stimulation of the ESM receiver. In order to produce a real-time digital description of an electromagnetic environment with pulse rates in excess of 106 pulses/s, a novel multiprocessor-based data generator is used. This, coupled with the advantages of high-level-language software emitter modelling, leads to the capability for high-fidelity signal representation. The necessary attributes of an associated RF signal generator are defined in the context of a total simulator that can be used during the development of ESM equipment.