Comparison of MLFMM, PO and SBR for RCS investigations in radar applications

It is well known that full-wave and asymptotic computational electromagnetics (CEM) methods have different benefits and disadvantages [1], [2], [3], but these factors are usually considered from a theoretical and not an application point of view. Even though asymptotic CEM methods are considered to be too inaccurate for many applications, their application to the radar cross section (RCS) analysis of electrically large objects can lead to significant insights for both the design of a radar system and the development of doctrine associated with a specific platform. The aim of this paper is to illustratively evaluate the Multilevel Fast Multipole Method (MLFMM), Physical Optics (PO) and Shooting and Bouncing Rays (SBR) methods in terms of their suitability for simple RCS investigations which might be encountered in radar applications.