Statistical angular resolution limit for array radar with ultrawideband stochastic signals

Abstract

The 2-D angular resolution limit for array radar with ultrawideband (UWB) stochastic signals based on the statistical resolution theory is presented in this paper. The signal model of monostatic array radar with circular array configuration and UWB stochastic signals is established, while the resolution of two closely spaced targets is modelled as a binary hypothesis test. The statistical angular resolution limit (SARL) for array radar with UWB stochastic signals is derived based on the generalized likelihood ratio test (GLRT) with given probabilities of false alarm and detection. The effects of detection parameters, transmit waveforms, array geometry, signal-to-noise ratio and parameters of target on SARL are analysed. Compared with the conventional resolution defined by ambiguity function, the SARL reflects the practical resolution ability of radar and can provide an optimization criterion for radar system design.