Abstract: A mode scheduling system for selecting track or search dwells in a track-while-scan radar. Targets to be tracked are classified according to acceleration levels and then arranged into priority classes based upon the acceleration. A relative update frequency for the targets in the priority classes is established. The track and search dwells are made during a repetitive dwell period having a predetermined number of track dwell intervals. Track dwells are scheduled during these intervals to satisfy the update frequency requirements. When all of the track dwell positions are not needed, search dwells are substituted for some of the track dwells. Search dwells are also inserted between track dwells, as needed, to maintain a minimum amount of search time regardless of the number of targets being tracked.

Abstract: A radar tracking system having a Kalman estimator is disclosed. The estimator is provided with angle and range track error measurements in a coordinate system that is aligned with and normal to the antenna line of sight, commonly referred to as the LOS coordinate system. This estimator implementation uses less computing resources in converting the measurements provided relative to the antenna LOS coordinate system, to predict target position referenced to a stable coordinate system such as geographic, wander azimuth, or inertial.

Abstract: A radar system of the type utilizing an optimal estimator to process raw range and angle track data for driving a radar antenna, where the tracking computations, range rate, and angular rate of the range vector are utilized in estimating the target velocity vector and the target acceleration vector. The attenuation inherent in the practical estimation of target acceleration is effectively removed for severely maneuvering targets by a compensating system that provides an attenuation factor, and multiplies the estimated acceleration output signal by the reciprocal of such factor. The implement control system is governed by the estimated target position and estimated target velocity from the estimator, and the modified acceleration signal of the compensating system.