Abstract: A method of processing radar returns derived from a new radar waveform. The method processes radar returns derived from transmitting the radar waveform to provide simultaneous matched processing and range profiling of different size objects in the presence of clutter. In the present method, radar returns are digitized and processed to produce pulse compressed radar returns having a predetermined (169:1) pulse compression ratio. A pulse to pulse fast Fourier transform on each RF step is performed on the pulse compressed radar returns. The Fourier transformed radar returns are then simultaneously processed by three processing channels, one each for ships, boats and submarines to provide detection of the different size objects. The waveform permits concurrent detection, discrimination, and high resolution range imaging of detected objects within a single dwell, using a single waveform. Thus, a radar search mode using the waveform integrates several search functions without increasing search frame time.

Abstract: A synthetic aperture radar processing system receiving return data from a plurality of transmitted pulses which utilizes frequency alignment for partitioning the received data into patches of data in an orderly sequence, a plurality of patches of data being formed in each of a plurality of range subswaths and being sequentially aligned in range columns. For each subswath, the return data is filtered in patch filters having wide bandwidths and passband overlaps selected so that each patch of data is totally included within a passband. The patch filters are selected for each subswath to provide sequential columns of data. Each patch of data for each subswath is then frequency shifted to an interpolator narrow band filter having a passband selected so that data outside of each patch is eliminated.