K-band radar signature analysis of a flying mallard duck

Modern radar receivers are becoming more sensitive than their predecessors, which is believed to be a necessity for detection of low signature targets. As a result, it is assumed that birds will represent a potential problem for radars in the future. Both in a resource management context, where a large number of targets can overwhelm the system, as well as for discrimination between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and birds. This paper aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities of micro-Doppler extraction and analysis in the context of modern air defense surveillance radars.