Feasibility of Adopting 6G Frequencies for Transmitter of Opportunity by Passive Radar

Abstract

Targets are detected by passive radar by analysing the electromagnetic signal reflections from unintentional opportunistic signal transmitters in the surveillance area. The passive bistatic radar selects the opportunistic emitters, also known as illuminators of opportunity (IOO), depending on the available IOO signals, operating frequency, and the kind of application. Most commonly used IOOs by the passive radar are frequency modulated signal (FM), digital video broadcasting signal (DVB), and radio frequency signals. Recent work suggests that the 5G New Radio (5G NR) waveform might provide an useful IOO for passive bistatic radar. In this analytical study we aim to carry out feasibility of adopting proposed 6G frequencies for IOO in a passive radar. Radar metrics such as range resolution, velocity resolution, range product, and Ovals of Cassini are examined. Furthermore, the 6G frequency bands are compared with existing IOOs. The simulation findings show that all of the radar parameters outperform for the 6G bands, implying that 6G is a viable alternative for future IOO. © 2022 IEEE.