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From Mechanics to Electronics: The Evolution of Active Phased Array Radar and Its Impact on Air Combat

author:Shenshan Hui'an

#有源相控阵雷达到底有多厉害#

Active phased array radar systems are a key technology in modern air defense and navigation systems, which enable rapid and accurate detection and tracking of air targets through highly advanced electronic and radar technologies. The power and utility of this radar is reflected in many aspects, greatly increasing the level of capabilities in the military and civilian fields.

Multi-target processing capability

Active phased array radar is capable of tracking and managing multiple targets simultaneously, thanks to its electronic scanning characteristics. In contrast to traditional mechanically scanned radars, AESA radars do not require physical moving antennas to direct beams. It electronically and rapidly changes the direction and shape of the beam, allowing it to jump from one target to another almost instantaneously, enabling real-time tracking and management of a large number of targets.

From Mechanics to Electronics: The Evolution of Active Phased Array Radar and Its Impact on Air Combat

Stealth ability

Active phased array radars have a low probability of being detected because they can emit very small, highly concentrated beams. This ability to precisely control the beam means that the radar can operate at reduced power, reducing the risk of being detected by enemy radar. In addition, AESA radar is able to avoid enemy radar interference by changing the transmission frequency, improving jamming immunity.

Distance and resolution

Active phased array radars, due to their advanced technology, typically have a longer detection range and higher target resolution than conventional radars. It is capable of detecting targets at greater distances while maintaining high-resolution recognition of small or low-detectability targets. This makes AESA radar the radar system of choice for modern fighters, ships, and ground-based air defense systems.

From Mechanics to Electronics: The Evolution of Active Phased Array Radar and Its Impact on Air Combat

Anti-interference capability

Active phased array radar systems are resistant to strong electronic interference thanks to their agile frequency conversion capabilities and sophisticated signal processing algorithms. AESA radar can change the operating frequency in an instant to avoid jamming signals, while its advanced algorithms can extract target information from the chaotic signal environment to maintain stable tracking of the target.

Flexibility and reliability

Since each antenna unit of the AESA radar is an independent transmitting and receiving module, the entire system can continue to work even if some modules fail. This modular design greatly increases the reliability and survivability of the radar system. In addition, the software-defined capability of AESA radar means that it can enhance performance and functionality through software updates, ensuring the long-term effectiveness and adaptability of the system.

From Mechanics to Electronics: The Evolution of Active Phased Array Radar and Its Impact on Air Combat

Active phased array radar plays a vital role in modern military and certain civilian scenarios due to its excellent multi-target processing capabilities, stealth characteristics, long-range detection and high resolution, strong anti-jamming performance, and excellent flexibility and reliability. As the technology continues to evolve, AESA radar will continue to provide more powerful and flexible perception capabilities for air, sea, and ground platforms.

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