Radar detection ranges, taking into account wave propagation phenomena

Radar detection ranges were studied under real conditions, taking into account atmospheric refraction and diffraction effects on the detection of low flying objects. The topographic information was derived from a digital terrain data base. This allows the calculation of the attenuation of an electromagnetic field due to the actual terrain profile. The use of a digital computer provides access to the terrain data base as well as the calculation of frequency and terrain-specific mean values of the detection range, based on a statistically relevant number of simulations. Target direction errors due to diffraction at a vertical edge are discussed.