Single target tracking with distributed cognitive radar

Abstract

This paper presents the application of the fully adaptive radar (FAR) framework for cognition to a distributed radar network. Multiple instances of the FAR framework were arranged hierarchically, allowing for multiple levels of perception and adaptation. We demonstrated this approach using two distributed radar nodes connected to a fusion center. Each node adapted its transmitted waveform parameters to optimize tracking performance, while the fusion center tracked the target in Cartesian space and passed operating instructions to each node. Experimental results demonstrated that the proposed adaptive, hierarchical structure was able to track a human target in Cartesian space while adapting the radar waveform parameters in real-time.