An Overview on Development of Passive Radar Based on the Low Frequency Band Digital Broadcasting and TV Signals

Abstract

Starting from the detection principle and characteristics of passive radar, this paper describes the development of passive radar based on the low frequency band (HF/VHF/UHF) digital broadcasting and TV signal. Based on the radio coverage ratio and technical features of digital broadcasting and TV signals, the research status in abroad, especially in Europe, is introduced at first, on experimental systems, technical parameters, and comparative experiments. Then the latest development of passive radars, in different frequency bands in China, both theory and experimental study are presented. Followed is the commentary on the key techniques and problems of Digital Broadcasting-based Passive Radar (DBPR), including the waveform’s properties and its modification, reference signal extraction, multipath clutter rejection, target detection, tracking, and fusion as well as real-time signal processing. Finally, the prospects of development and application of this kind of passive radar are discussed.

Keywords

• Passive radar
• High Frequency (HF) radar
• Very High Frequency (VHF) radar
• Ultra High Frequency (UHF) radar
• Air surveillance radar