Space-time adaptive processing in stable impulsive interference

Abstract

This paper studies methods for space-time adaptive processing-based (STAP-based) parameter estimation in the presence of impulsive noise backgrounds. Towards this goal, the theory of alpha-stable random processes provides an elegant and mathematically tractable framework for the solution of the detection and parameter estimation problems in the presence of impulsive radar clutter. We develop joint target angle and Doppler, maximum likelihood-based estimation techniques from radar measurements retrieved in the presence of impulsive noise (thermal, jamming, or clutter) modeled as an alpha-stable, complex random process. We derive the Cramer-Rao bounds for the additive Cauchy interference scenario to assess the best-case estimation accuracy which can be achieved. The results are of great importance in the study of space-time adaptive processing (STAP) for airborne pulse Doppler radar arrays operating in impulsive interference environments.