Using polarization discriminants for target classification and identification

The exploitation of target polarization behavior to improve radar performance is a subject of increasing interest. This typically requires the use of polarimetric radars which are capable of measuring the full target scattering matrix in real time. Information thus obtained can be processed to be optimally exploited to enhance target classification and identification by radar. Different techniques have been proposed for such an objective, which are briefly examined in this paper Their inherent capabilities are highlighted while potential developments in this field of applications are discussed.