Signature management for low-flying vehicles
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | SAAB Aktiebolag - SAAB AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 3 370 000 |
| Project duration | July 2013 - June 2017 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
An analysis of the radar threats encountered by low flying objects has been used to formulate radar signature requirements that reduce detection. LU has investigated 3D periodic absorbing structures. A conclusion is that the performance is not always stable to incidence angle variations. The absorber performance as a function of surface curvature was investigated and simulation methods were developed for rotationally symmetric objects of arbitrary shape. A new measurement method for low frequency material properties was developed.
Expected results and effects
Radar signature requirements for low flying objects was determined. It was found that the expected positive signature properties of 3D periodic structures was not possible to realize for all 3D structures. Tools were developed to simulate radar-absorbing structures. These tools make it possible to perform a large number of simulations of radar absorbing structures faster than what has previously been possible. The scientific results from the project have been published as technical reports and conference papers, and two journal papers have been submitted for publication.
Planned approach and implementation
The industrial participants have formulated the signature requirements and the university participants have developed useful solutions based on the requirements. The cooperation has been carried out successfully with monthly project meetings. Two participants have shared their time between Saab and Lund University as adjunct professors and have contributed as co-supervisors for the PhD student. The PhD student has worked part time in the project and results from this project will be part of his dissertation. The dissertation will be defended in October 2017.