Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques FHR
Situation Reports for Dynamic Operational Areas
Today, monitoring complex operational environments requires highly mobile and flexible sensor systems that can operate independently of fixed locations. Different types of targets—from manned platforms to unmanned systems—must be reliably detected, tracked, and assessed. At the same time, electronic warfare is becoming increasingly important: sensor systems must not only detect threats but also be resilient to jamming and deception measures.
Fraunhofer FHR develops radar-based technologies for airborne reconnaissance. The goal is to provide a robust information base for time-critical decisions.
Miniaturization and New Platforms
A central development trend is the integration of high‑performance sensor technology into compact and energy‑efficient carrier platforms. One example is the TAUSAR project, in which a high‑resolution millimeter‑wave radar sensor is integrated into an electrically powered vertical‑takeoff platform (eVTOL). Such approaches enable high‑resolution reconnaissance even with small, highly flexible carrier systems. In particular, power supply, weight, and system integration pose major challenges.
Networked Intelligence in Combined Systems
Modern reconnaissance systems increasingly rely on the interaction of multiple platforms. Manned and unmanned systems collect data from different perspectives and merge them into a consistent overall picture. These so‑called networked integrated systems (“system of systems”) enable a more robust and more complete situational awareness by combining information from different viewpoints.
We are working on key technologies for this networking, particularly in the areas of
- synchronization of distributed sensors
- efficient processing and distribution of large data volumes
- coordinated resource management within multifunctional sensor systems
An example of this is the European project SCEPTER, which develops methods for the coordinated use of radar, communication, and electronic‑countermeasure functions.
Testing Under Real‑World Conditions
The development of new technologies at Fraunhofer FHR does not take place exclusively in the laboratory but is systematically tested under real‑world conditions. A key unique capability is the use of in‑house airborne experimental systems that allow the collection of real sensor data. One example is the PHOENIX 94 system, which is deployed in international measurement campaigns.
Further Information PHOENIX 94
These real‑world data are essential for developing reliable evaluation methods, as they include real effects such as interference, multipath propagation, and environmental influences.
Advancing Networked Sensor Architectures
Future systems require seamless networking across different platforms and operational layers. In addition to airborne systems, other domains are increasingly being integrated. In the long term, space‑based sensors will also play an important role, particularly for the early detection of distant threats.
Fraunhofer FHR is working with partners on concepts that combine airborne sensing with additional system components to enable consistent information acquisition. Clients benefit from scalable solutions that can be flexibly adapted to different operational requirements.