Navigation General · Radar Principles
The maximum radar range at which a target can theoretically be detected depends MOST directly on:
- AThe pulse repetition frequency (PRF) and receiver bandwidth
- BThe antenna height above the waterline and the height of the target✓ Correct
- CThe transmitter frequency (X-band vs. S-band) alone
- DThe operator's gain setting
Explanation
Radar maximum range is primarily a function of the radio horizon, which depends on the heights of both the transmitting antenna and the target. The formula is: Range (nm) ≈ 1.22 × (√h1 + √h2), where h1 and h2 are antenna and target heights in feet. PRF affects ambiguity range, bandwidth affects resolution, and gain affects sensitivity — but none extend the geometric radar horizon.
Authority: Radar Navigation Manual (Pub. 1310), Ch. 2
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