Radar Observer · Performance — Beam Width vs Bearing Resolution
A narrower horizontal beam width gives:
- ABetter bearing resolution and discrimination of targets close together at the same range✓ Correct
- BGreater maximum range
- CBetter range resolution
- DA larger minimum range
Explanation
Horizontal beam width sets bearing (angular) resolution: a narrow beam separates two targets at the same range but slightly different bearings, and reduces bearing 'painting' (a target appears wider than it is by about the beam width). A larger antenna gives a narrower beam.
Authority: IMO Performance Standards for Radar; Bowditch
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