A Forward Scatter Radar Sea Clutter Model Based on Experimental Data

Forward Scatter Radar is a particular configuration of Bistatic Radar, where the transmitter and the receiver are facing each other and the Bistatic angle is close to 180°. Unlike traditional backscatter Radar, where the received signal is the sum of target reflections in Forward Scatter Radar it is formed via the shadowing of the direct signal by the target’s body. Target detection is a challenging task in Forward Scatter Radar, especially in dynamic sea clutter in maritime system due to absence of range resolution in Continuous Wave. This thesis concerns with simulation of sea clutter return and the mitigation of highest component by the use of Ultra Wide Band. This thesis considers analysis of sea clutter at very low grazing angle in Forward Scatter Radar. It is done mostly through a mapping for estimation of areas, which would affect performance of Forward Scatter Radar in terms of significant reduction of Signal to clutter ratio. The thesis gives a useful instrument for the study and the development of Forward Scatter Radar maritime systems. It presents a model able to determine the sea clutter spatial distribution. A sea clutter map is provided to evaluate clutter effects in each area of the illuminated surfaces and detection aspects have been analysed for Ultra Wide Band Forward Scatter Radar.