HELICOPTER-BORNE RADAR SYSTEM Russian patent published in 2000 - IPC

FIELD: radiolocation. SUBSTANCE: invention refers to radar systems designed for use as helicopter-or aircraft-borne radar for survey of ground and water surface and detection of objects on it, small-sized object included. Objective of proposal consists in obtainment of high angular resolution of radar in azimuthal plane by way of synthesizing of antenna aperture both under hovering condition of helicopter and while it flies in direction of its velocity vector. It is achieved by giving motion in horizontal plane to radar antenna installed in nose of helicopter thanks to rotation of helicopter body about axis in specified angular sector. Its electrical axis is set perpendicular to ( or at angle ) direction of flight. Radiation, reception and coherent summation of reflected signals are conducted with motion of antenna in each range element. Artificial ( synthesized ) antenna aperture considerably exceeding aperture of real antenna is created as result of coherent summation which ensures high angular resolution in azimuthal plane. Capability of coherent summation of received signals is provided by way of compensation of phase variations of received signal. EFFECT: high angular resolution of radar in azimuthal plane. 8 dwg