Assessment of atmospheric influence on surveillance radar performance in littoral zones

Acoustic sensors, traditionally thought of as the mainstay of modem ASW's means of detection and localization, are rapidly becoming secondary in the littoral zones to active sensors such as radar. The coastal region has a dynamic meteorological environment dominated by surface and near-surface ducts which influence sea clutter. Accurate, timely description of the effects this changing environment has on sensor performance is mandatory for the ASW tactitician to utilize his sensors. The Radio Physics Optics (RPO) program and the Engineer's Refractive Effects Prediction System (EPEPS) are used to evaluate influence of a measured environment. Both prediction systems are then applied to a Gulf of Oman winter environmental profile with five generic radars operating parameters. EREPS is used to evaluate factors affecting Wallops Flight Facility Space and Ranging Radar (SPANDAR) detected sea clutter in the littoral zone off the United States East Coast.