ELINT: The Interception and Analysis of Radar Signals
Combining and updating the author's two definitive volumes on electronic intelligence (Elint), this is your indispensable reference on radar's role in Elint. Starting with the basic theory of range equations and probability of intercept, the book examines Elint systems characteristics, performance issues, and essential functions. It gives you new insight into Pri and intrapulse analysis so you can obtain better results and more data for identifying signals. Supported with over 240 illustrations and more nearly 300 equations, this in-depth resource helps you more fully understand the benefits and limitations of Elint information that is so crucial in electronic warfare. You learn how to draw more cohesive conclusions about radar's capabilities that are implied by observed signal parameters. Moreover, the book teaches you how to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of different receiver configurations and master the challenges of Lpi radar signals.
Why Read This Book
You will gain a practical, end-to-end understanding of how radar signals are intercepted, analyzed, and interpreted for electronic intelligence (ELINT), with deep coverage of PRI and intrapulse techniques that yield better emitter characterization. The book balances theory (range equations, probability of intercept) with system-level performance and signal-processing detail so you can draw reliable conclusions about radar capabilities from measured parameters.
Who Will Benefit
Engineers and analysts working in radar signal processing, electronic intelligence, electronic warfare, or communications who need to design, evaluate, or exploit ELINT systems and emitter-characterization methods.
Level: Advanced — Prerequisites: Familiarity with basic radar concepts, linear systems and Fourier analysis, probability & statistics, and digital signal processing fundamentals (FFT, filtering); undergraduate-level electromagnetics and signals recommended.
Key Takeaways
- Apply range equation and probability-of-intercept concepts to assess ELINT system performance under realistic operational constraints.
- Perform PRI and intrapulse analysis to extract timing, frequency, modulation, and micro-Doppler features for emitter characterization.
- Design and evaluate intercept receiver architectures and signal-processing chains (spectral analysis, pulse compression, adaptive filtering) for robust detection and parameter estimation.
- Classify and identify radar emitters using measured signal parameters and statistical decision techniques to support tactical and strategic intelligence.
- Quantify limitations and uncertainties in ELINT measurements and fuse multi-source observations to improve confidence in radar capability assessments.
Topics Covered
- 1. Introduction to ELINT and Radar Interception
- 2. Radar Fundamentals: Range Equation and Detection
- 3. Probability of Intercept and Performance Metrics
- 4. Intercept Receiver Architectures and Front-End Considerations
- 5. Pulse Repetition Interval (PRI) and Timing Analysis
- 6. Intrapulse Analysis: Modulation, Frequency, and Micro-structure
- 7. Spectral Analysis, FFTs, and High-Resolution Techniques
- 8. Pulse Compression, Matched Filtering, and Waveform Effects
- 9. Adaptive Filtering and Clutter/Interference Mitigation
- 10. Emitter Classification, Parameter Extraction, and Databases
- 11. ELINT Systems, Sensors, and Platform Considerations
- 12. Performance Assessment, Limitations, and Uncertainty Analysis
- 13. Case Studies and Practical Examples
- Appendices: Mathematical Background, Tables, and Equations
Languages, Platforms & Tools
How It Compares
Complementary to Skolnik's Radar Handbook and Introduction to Radar Systems — Wiley focuses specifically on ELINT interception, parameter analysis, and emitter identification rather than general radar design or system engineering.
