Emerging Trends in Radar: Perspective on Future Integrated Multistatic Radar

The growing complexity of surveillance demands has led to the increasing adoption of multistatic radar systems (MRS), which utilize spatially separated transmitters and receivers. MRS offer enhanced spatial diversity, superior resolution, and improved detection capabilities, particularly against stealth airborne targets. This article presents a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art approaches across key functional blocks of an MRS, including waveform design, synchronization, detection, and localization, and outlines promising research directions. By leveraging existing infrastructure such as cellular towers, we propose a cost-effective and scalable solution that ensures ubiquitous coverage while addressing the challenges posed by sophisticated threats. Additionally, a layered architectural framework is introduced to enable target monitoring across varying altitudes, resulting in a holistic system capable of both broadband connectivity and effective surveillance. This innovative approach aligns with the integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) paradigm, maximizing spectrum efficiency and ensuring seamless coexistence of communication and sensing functionalities.