Small UAVs and their Buzz.. How micro-Doppler makes the difference!

Abstract

Radars for air and surface picture compilation are very good at detection, localization and tracking of objects in a large volume. For identification and classification however, other means are necessary, like transponders on-board airborne and surface platforms. If those are not available, Non-Cooperative Target Recognition (NCTR) techniques can be used to learn more about the radar contacts. If available… Our research work demonstrates the potential of combining micro-Doppler radar measurements with smart algorithms for the purpose of advanced NCTR in typically time critical radar systems. Micro-Doppler signatures provide informative features on which fast and reliable classification can be performed. In addition, it can be measured with minimal impact on the radar hardware. Classification is done by feeding the measured signatures to smart, notably AI-based algorithms. In this work we give a research overview performed by the strategic alliance between Thales Nederland B.V. and TNO, called D-RACE, on how micro-Doppler is exploited, for instance for anti-drone capabilities, in Thales Nederland’s state of the art radars.