Continuous wave radar is particularly unsuitable for which type of targets?

Continuous wave radar is particularly unsuitable for fast moving targets flying in the same direction because it primarily measures the frequency shift of the radar signal due to the Doppler effect. This technology is effective at detecting changes in speed or direction when the target is moving relative to the radar source.

When a fast moving target is traveling in the same direction as the radar wave, the frequency shift may be minimal. This can lead to difficulties in differentiating the target from the background noise and accurately measuring its speed or position. In such scenarios, the radar may not significantly alter the frequency from the transmitted signal, thus making it challenging for the continuous wave radar to provide reliable information about these types of targets.

In contrast, continuous wave radar can effectively engage with stationary objects or slow moving ground-based targets, as these provide clearer frequency shifts because they do not exhibit significant motion relative to the radar source. Similarly, targets flying at varying speeds offer a detectable difference in frequency, which makes them easier to track than those traveling rapidly in the same direction.