Abstract

A radar transmitter in which a pseudo-random sequence of pulses are transmitted, each at a different frequency. Prior to the return of the first pulse, a receiver is retuned to the first transmit frequency, then the transmitter is retuned to the second transmit frequency and so on. The return pulses are integrated coherently across the sets at a each frequency to achieve the highest signal level. The pulses are integrated noncoherently within a set over all the frequencies transmitted to improve the signal-to-noise ratio.The technique of the present invention requires accurate knowledge of the range to the target. In a specific multi-line embodiment, the range calculation is provided by the centerline carrier frequency operating at a medium pulse repetition (prf) frequency. The retuning is then performed with the sidebands operating at a low prf.The invention offers the advantages of single frequency operation, pulse-to-pulse switching, and simultaneous processing of two different waveforms (medium and low prf). Thus, the radar system of the present invention offers improved fade elimination, interference insensitivity, and range ambiguity.