Low Probability of Intercept Radar (LPIR) is designed to avoid detection by both the target and non-target platforms, but the emphasis can vary depending on the operational context. Here’s a breakdown of the intent and mechanisms:
Avoiding Detection by the Target
1. Purpose:
Avoiding detection by the target is critical in scenarios where stealth is paramount, such as tracking an adversary without alerting them to your presence. For example:
• A fighter jet using LPIR to track another aircraft covertly.
• A stealth platform engaging in surveillance or targeting operations.
2. How It Works:
• Low-Power Emissions: Signals are emitted at power levels close to the noise floor, making it hard for the target’s radar warning receiver (RWR) to detect.
• Directional Beaming: Highly directional antennas focus the radar energy toward the target, reducing leakage and making it less likely for the target to pick up the signal.
• Complex Waveforms: Spread-spectrum, frequency-hopping, and pulse-compression techniques ensure that the radar’s emissions appear indistinguishable from background noise to standard detection systems.
Avoiding Detection by Non-Targets
1. Purpose:
Avoiding detection by non-target systems is important to maintain operational security and prevent broader situational awareness of radar activity. This is especially important in:
• Large-scale operations where adversaries deploy networked detection systems.
• Denied areas where adversary electronic warfare systems actively search for radar emissions.
2. How It Works:
• Wideband Emissions: LPIR spreads its signal across a broad frequency spectrum, making it harder to detect or localize using traditional electronic intelligence (ELINT) or EW systems.
• Power Management: By using only the minimum power needed for effective detection and tracking, LPIR reduces its chance of being intercepted by distant sensors.
• Adaptive Waveforms: Some LPIR systems adapt their emissions in real-time to avoid matching known profiles detectable by adversary systems.
Prioritization: Target vs. Non-Target
• LPIR is primarily designed to avoid detection by the target, as this is critical for maintaining the element of surprise in combat or reconnaissance.
• Avoiding detection by non-target systems (such as nearby aircraft or ground-based sensors) is an additional benefit and part of the broader goal of reducing radar intercept likelihood.
Conclusion
LPIR technology serves a dual purpose but is primarily designed to remain undetectable to the intended target while also minimizing the risk of detection by non-target systems in the surrounding area. This dual capability enhances survivability and effectiveness in stealth-oriented operations.
