Feasibility Study for Enhanced CC-130 Search and Rescue Capability With a Ground Penetrating Radar
Abstract
Penetration radars have been successful in detecting and locating many types of metallic targets under foliage, including flat plates, vehicles, reflectors, and pipes. The purpose of this study is two-fold: (1) define the radar operating parameters, especially frequency, that would maximise the chances of success for a penetration radar mounted on the CC-130 for detection of downed aircraft in search and rescue operations; and (2) investigate the feasibility of mounting a foliage penetration radar on the CC-130 RMAS. The study concludes that the penetration radar can be operated from the CC-130 RMAS pallet and associated pod using a frequency range which will effective in detecting concealed sections of downed aircraft. The minimum size of detected metal parts will depend mostly on the background clutter in the radar image. In many scenes this will most likely be due not to snow or forest properties, but to surface rockfall in the area which itself has also been covered by foliage or snow. Pieces of metal two or more meters across will be readily detectable from a wide range of illumination angles. Snow cover is not an impediment to radar detection in this frequency range, or indeed for any frequencies, even beyond L-Band.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA436216
Entities
People
- Roger Vickers
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada