What distinguishes airborne radar from other types of radar?

Airborne radar is primarily distinguished from other types of radar by its design, which prioritizes compactness to accommodate the space and weight limitations inherent in aircraft. Given that airborne radar systems must fit within the confined space of an aircraft and operate efficiently without adding significant weight, engineers prioritize a smaller form factor while ensuring operational effectiveness. This consideration is crucial because any additional weight or size could adversely affect the aircraft's performance, including stability and range.

In addition, other radar types may not have the same stringent requirements for compactness because they operate in more flexible environments, such as ground-based or shipborne installations, where space and weight constraints are less critical. Thus, the focus on creating compact designs is what sets airborne radar apart in the context of radar systems.