Target tracking algorithms for phased array radar

Abstract

Phased array radar have an additional degree of freedom compared with track-while-scan radar, in that a variable update time may be used in the former. On detection of a manoeuvre, the update time may be reduced leading to an improved tracking accuracy. It has been shown how a variable update time may be incorporated into the αβ filter, the value of this update time being dependent on the magnitude of the residual. The algorithm of Cohen is tested by application of Monte-Carlo simulations to a wide variety of target tracks. Additional strategies in choosing the update time are also examined. The dependence of the mean square estimation errors and the mean update times are investigated for a range of parameters of the algorithm. It is concluded that in choosing the parameters of the algorithm, there is a trade-off between keeping the estimation errors low and restricting the mean update time from becoming excessively small.