Analysis of superhet radar receivers in electronic warfare: performance against jamming techniques

Year 2025, Volume: 67 Issue: 1, 43 - 58, 18.06.2025

Cenk Kaan Zeki Fikret , Ahmet Akbulut

https://doi.org/10.33769/aupse.1611938

Abstract

The resilience of RADAR systems in electronic warfare environments is critical for ensuring accurate communication and target detection amidst signal jamming techniques. This study focuses on the performance of Superheterodyne (Superhet) receivers, which are favored for their simplicity, flexibility, and high sensitivity in handling jamming signals. The paper examines the effectiveness of Superhet receivers in scenarios involving various jamming types, including DRFM, sweep, barrage, and noise jamming, while considering factors such as distance, RADAR Cross Section values, and signal processing techniques. Using MATLAB simulations, the study investigates the impact of different jamming strategies on RADAR signal integrity. Key parameters such as carrier frequency, power level, and the Jamming-to-Signal Ratio are analyzed to evaluate receiver performance. The results show that Superhet receivers, due to their structural flexibility and advanced signal processing capabilities, demonstrate significant robustness against jamming, especially in hybrid electronic warfare systems requiring precise pulse parameter measurement. The study highlights the importance of receiver complexity in maintaining performance as jammer proximity decreases and fighter aircraft RADAR Cross Section values lower. The findings offer insights into designing more resilient receiver systems for future electronic warfare applications.

Keywords

RADAR receiver , jamming , signal processing , electronic warfare , simulation

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