Radar detectability of light aircraft micro‐Doppler modulation

Abstract The critical role of specifying micro‐Doppler mode performance in the modelling and development of modern radar systems is investigated. The authors focus on the detection of micro‐Doppler modulation from light aircraft, analysing data from eight helicopters and nine propeller aircraft. With the growing need for accurate target classification in radar technology, incorporating micro‐Doppler detection metrics into radar performance specifications has become increasingly important. This research offers a novel approach to measuring the detectability of micro‐Doppler modulation relative to returns from the main fuselage. The investigation covers the impacts of various preprocessing techniques, polarisation, and aspect angle on detection capabilities. Findings reveal that, on average, micro‐Doppler modulation from propellers is detectable at distances between 50% and 100% of the range at which the fuselage is detected. For helicopters, this range decreases to between 30% and 80%. Additionally, the study introduces empirically derived statistical models designed to predict micro‐Doppler detection ranges in relation to fuselage returns, enhancing the predictability and specificity of radar system performance. This novel contribution presents a basis for improving radar system specifications, leading ultimately to more predictable and reliable light aircraft classification.