An improved scheduling algorithm for a naval phased array radar

A multifunctional phased array radar performs a number of different functions: horizontal search with a low data updating time (2 seconds); volumetric search with medium updating time (typically 8 seconds); tracking with different updating times (1 to 4 seconds) depending on the target; and analysis of the ECM environment. Every task requires the pointing of the pencil beam in a given direction for the time required to perform the task. The authors describe and evaluate the performances of a simple algorithm which schedules the different tasks in a phased array radar based on a single face antenna rotating with a scan period of 1 second