Abstract: The present invention pertains to a microwave continuous wave (CW) Doppler adar system for river ice motion detection and real-time kinematic data acquisition using digital signal processing equipment for processing, storing and displaying such data. With less complex electronic signal processing hardware, a Doppler radar ice motion detection and alarming system can be used in conjunction with the system. River ice kinematic measurements are fundamental to analyses of river/ice dynamics. The system herein can be rapidly deployed, requires minimal operator interaction, and can continuously acquire, process, store and display ice kinematic data regardless of visibility conditions. Use of the Doppler radar system is an effective, efficient and precise method and apparatus for obtaining river ice kinematic data.