MIMO distributed imaging of rotating targets for improved 2-D resolution

This letter deals with the multiple-input-multiple-output distributed radar imaging of rotating targets. The distributed system is based on formation-flying platforms, which can be configured with proper cross-track and along-track displacements. The platforms carry active radar systems transmitting almost orthogonal waveforms; exploiting both monostatic and bistatic acquisitions, range and cross-range resolution improvement can be achieved, and a maximum theoretical 2-D resolution cell improvement factor can be obtained significantly greater than the number of flying platforms. The required distributed focusing technique is developed, and its effectiveness and robustness is tested against simulated data. The proposed distributed system could be suitable to the application of ship target imaging, using a reconfigurable formation of platforms, for maritime surveillance in wide sea areas.