Radar cross section (RCS) is a comparison of two radar signal strengths.
One is the strength of the radar beam sweeping over a target, the other
is the strength of the reflected echo sensed by the receiver. This book
shows how the RCS gauge can be predicted for theoretical objects and how
it can be measured for real targets. Predicting RCS is not easy, even
for simple objects like spheres or cylinders, but this book explains the
two exact forms of theory so well that even a novice will understand
enough to make close predictions. Weapons systems developers are keenly
interested in reducing the RCS of their platforms. The two most
practical ways to reduce RCS are shaping and absorption. This book
explains both in great detail, especially in the design, evaluation, and
selection of radar absorbers. There is also great detail on the design
and employment of indoor and outdoor test ranges for scale models or for
full-scale targets (such as aircraft). In essence, this book covers
everything you need to know about RCS, from what it is, how to predict
and measure, and how to test targets (indoors and out), and how to beat
it.