The correct use of modern radar in flight and attack aircraft is one of the main tasks of the pilot and copilot. This means that training in radar operation and image interpretation is one of the most important training aspects in a full mission simulator. Realistic simulation of modern radars is essential to achieving the required training.
The state-of-the-art in micro-electronics, data processing, computer graphics and other relevant areas make it possible to generate all necessary radar signals in real-time using completely synthetic video generation methods. Based on digital data bases and the appropriate aircraft and radar parameters, terrain and culture profiles are generated. From these profiles, radar echoes simulating Ground Mapping Radar, Terrain Following Radar and the Radar Altimeter are synthesized. Typical radar effects such as range attenuation, shadowing, far-shore enhancement, and pulse stretching are accounted for along with the antenna, transmitter, and receiver characteristics of the actual radar in all operating modes.
The radar simulation is performed in real-time, with all computations up-dated at a rate consistent with the radar characteristics and the flight control system of the aircraft. The use of a high up-date rate allows all training missions to be performed with full freedom of manoeuvring in the simulator.
This paper describes the performance characteristics of a Digital Radar Landmass Simulation System (DRLMS), developed for the TORNADO Flight and Tactics Simulator, with an emphasis on its training role.