What is the difference between search and tracking radars?
============ Search radars are systems devoted to the systematic exploration of a large volume of space (for typical air search radars, this is performed over 360° in azimuth and over elevation angles ranging from 20-30° up to almost 90°, processing the echoes over the whole PRI, i.e. over the whole observable range), using different scan techniques. On the other side, tracking radars remains “locked” on a specific target to provide continuos information about its position and motion. Usually, a “pencil beam” (i.e., narrow in both azimuth and elevation) is used. Only a small “range window” correnponding to the target range and its immediate vicinity is processed. External designation systems (such as search radars) are normally employed for target initial location. Tracking radars use “closed loop” (feedback) control systems to keep the target aimed in both angle and range. For angle tracking (azimuth/elevation) different techniques, such as conical scan or monopulse are employed to de
