Ocean clutter characteristics for a coherent Doppler UHF radar

Abstract

A coherent UHF radar has been developed by the authors for the detection of small targets in high sea-states. There are several important advantages that can be exploited by operating in the UHF band. The UHF spectrum has been proven to provide a window where the clutter energy scattered back from the sea is significantly less than at other radar frequencies. In addition, the availability of off-the-shelf UHF components allows the development on an inexpensive coherent radar prototype. Coherent radar operation allows for the processing of multiple radar returns for enhanced target detection. The radar has undergone extensive field testing during the summer of 1999 at various locations in Newfoundland, Canada, and Prince William Sound, Alaska. During these experiments, a wide variety of environmental conditions were experienced. Some of the results of the data analysis are presented. Specifically, an analysis is presented on characteristics of the ocean clutter at UHF frequencies and a comparison is made to historical measurements.