MTI Radar: Advantages and Disadvantages

This page explores the advantages and disadvantages of MTI (Moving Target Indication) Radar, covering its benefits and drawbacks. It also provides a basic overview of MTI radar technology.

What is MTI Radar?

Introduction: MTI radar stands for Moving Target Indication Radar. It is a type of pulsed radar characterized by a very low Pulse Repetition Frequency (PRF). This low PRF ensures there is no range ambiguity in the MTI radar’s operation.

MTI radar is used primarily to determine the velocity of targets and to distinguish moving targets from stationary objects (clutter). The unambiguous range (R_un) is expressed by the following equation:

R_un = V_o / f_p

Where:

• V_o = velocity of electromagnetic waves in free space
• f_p = PRF

Image alt: MTI Radar Block Diagram

The radar leverages the Doppler effect in its operation. It effectively eliminates clutter from stationary objects, allowing it to identify moving targets. Figure 1 (above) depicts a block diagram of a typical MTI radar, which is largely self-explanatory. In the diagram, STALO refers to a Stable Local Oscillator, while COHO refers to a Coherent Oscillator.

Benefits or Advantages of MTI Radar

The following are the key benefits and advantages of using MTI Radar:

• Distinguishes Moving from Stationary Targets: MTI radar excels at differentiating between moving targets and stationary objects, filtering out unwanted clutter.
• Avoids Range Ambiguities: It utilizes a low PRF (Pulse Repetition Frequency) to minimize or completely avoid range ambiguities.
• Suitable for Cluttered Environments: The MTI principle is widely used in air surveillance radar systems that operate in the presence of significant clutter.
• Simpler Design: Compared to pulse Doppler radar, MTI radar typically has a simpler design.
• High Antenna Bandwidth: MTI radar systems often feature high antenna bandwidth.
• Economical: Generally, MTI radar is more economical compared to other advanced radar types.
• No Multiple PRF Waveforms Needed: It doesn’t require complex waveforms with multiple PRFs, simplifying signal processing.
• Preferred at UHF Frequencies: MTI radar is often the preferred choice for applications utilizing UHF frequencies.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of MTI Radar

Here are the primary drawbacks and disadvantages associated with MTI Radar:

• Blind Speed: Pulse MTI radar is unable to detect targets moving at specific “blind speeds.” Blind speed is defined as the radial component of a target’s velocity at which the moving target appears as a stationary object to the radar.
• Doppler Ambiguities: MTI radar systems can suffer from Doppler ambiguities, leading to potential errors in velocity estimation.