Study of the Monostatic Scattering Characteristics of Fifth-Generation Fighters

This paper discusses two methods for studying the monostatic scattering diagrams of fifth-generation aircraft: the Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor and Sukhoi Su-57. The monostatic scattering characteristics are determined through the asymptotic modeling of the object to obtain a complete pattern of effective scattering area, hotspots, and reflected wave propagation direction and also through the experimental study using an ultrasonic radar. Based on the study results, the use of modern aircraft development methods can reduce the radar cross section of an object. This fact is confirmed by both full-scale models in modeling and experimental studies of scale models. Since an ultrasonic radar was used in the experimental study, in accordance with the electrodynamic similarity rule, the chosen frequencies corresponded to waves which would irradiate the full-scale model. The study results are presented in the form of monostatic scattering diagrams with a step of 1° for the modeling and 10° for the experimental study. The monostatic scattering diagrams are mostly similar in shape, and some differences are caused by a lower measurement step in the experiment. The experimental data are presented in the form of dBmV instead of square meters, since no conversion was made to the radar cross section values.