Characterization and Validation of the GP-3 Experimental Radar System

The experimental GP-3 radar system was originally designed and built under contract for the Air Force Research Laboratory AFRL. AFRL sought AFITs support in characterizing the as delivered performance of the GP-3. This research effort focused exclusively on software modifications and hardware validations related to the GP-3 post-processing mode. As modified, tested, and validated, the GP-3s post-processing mode is now fully operational. The GP-3 is capable of transmitting and receiving bandlimited 3.5 MHz waveforms at X-Band frequencies. System characterization tests included, noise performance and frequency response. System noise performance characterization permitted establishment of the receiver noise floor and enabled determination of achievable SNRs -22 dB to 44 dB for internal noise only. Frequency response characterization provided system coloration effects an operational center frequency 4.25 MHz and -3.0 dB bandwidth 4 MHz were established. The GP-3s operational post-processing capabilities were demonstrated for three systems 1 a digital communication system, 2 a phase-coded, pulse compression radar, and 3 a radar employing nonlinear range ambiguity suppression NLS. The GP-3 is now a viable research testbed - a highly capable system for adding an element of real-world credibility to any experimental, modeling, and simulation scenario.