Angular superresolution algorithm for frequency scanning array antennas

In this paper, we address the problem of angular resolution in frequency scanning array antennas and propose a simple and yet effective method to recover target cross-range resolution beyond the beamwidth limitations. First, the frequency scanning antenna signal model is presented and then a new superresolution technique for frequency scanning signals is explained. This method uses the nonlinear relation between frequency variation and pointing angle of the antenna and achieves a resolution equal to the angular steps chosen for scanning the field of view. For instance, using an antenna with the -3dB beamwidth of seven degrees and scanning steps of one degree, we achieve a resolution of one degree under various noise conditions. The validity of the proposed method and the resulting performance in the presence of noise are demonstrated by simulations.