The estimation and correction of refractive bending in the AR3-D tactical radar systems

The development of techniques for the estimation and correction of refractive bending, in the vertical plane, in the evolution of a family of radar systems is discussed. The systems are based on the AR3-D radar and are in service in several countries and climates. After a brief description of the AR3-D radar systems, the Operational requirements, the Engineering solutions, some of the Human Factors which affect the design and implementation, and future possibilities are discussed. A simple and exact approach to sensitivity analysis is given. A fast algorithm for the online correction of radar plot elevation data is given. The need for education on refractive effects and for understanding the possibilities which exist for estimation and correction in 3-D radar systems is emphasized.