Modelling for the control of a complex radar system

Scope and Purpose—The word radar is derived from the phrase radio detection and ranging which is essentially what a radar system does. It transmits electromagnetical energy and gets returns from any reflecting object in its domain. There are many types of radar systems, traditionally built and designed to perform one task. A multifunction radar is a new type of radar system which combines three tasks: search, track and weapon guidance. As more of these multifunction systems are being developed there is an increasing interest in the research into the control of such systems. This paper describes a case study in which a detailed model of such a system is developed, tested and used extensively for experimental purposes. The problem of effectively controlling a new breed of complex radar system is considered. The various tasks to be performed by the newly developed radar are distinguished and a radar simulation model is evolved. The model enables recommendations to be made about how, and when, various tasks should be performed so as to achieve an efficient compromise between the required radar actions and the resources available to the radar. This study was instigated by the Defence Research Agency to help assess a new radar system they had developed. The model developed has some general features that can be used for other complex systems.