Germany demonstrates passive radar system using Starlink satellite radiation - Airforce Technology
A passive radar demo has been constructed by Germany, which monitors objects through the use of radiation originating from Starlink satellites in a strategic manner.
Germany is currently exploring a novel passive radar system that utilizes signals from the Starlink satellite network to detect and obtain images of targets. The German Ministry of Defence recently released their annual report on defence technology on 15 January 2024, which includes information on an operational prototype of this system being developed.
According to the report, utilizing the already existing transmitters from the Starlink network in an opportunistic manner provides the chance for an undercover operation that is resilient against jamming and has enhanced capabilities in identifying elusive targets.
Starlink is an immense group of over 3000 satellites, even compared to today's standards. Positioned at an elevation of 550km, these satellites orbit close to the earth and are capable of delivering robust bandwidth signals to Starlink's clients, as well as individuals in Ukraine, regardless of weather conditions. This guarantees worldwide coverage for the satellite network and its users.
The Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques (FHR) finds the current situation advantageous for their SABBIA 2.0 passive radar system demonstrator's development. With the abundance of Starlink satellites, objects can now be illuminated from different angles, which helps reveal objects not easily seen in real-life scenarios with only one transmitter.
The method relies on a single powerful reference antenna to follow a specific Starlink satellite and mimic its transmission, in addition to a second monitoring antenna set towards a distinct viewing region so that it can pick up feedback from the targeted satellite.
The SABBIA 2.0 passive radar system doesn't need to send its own radar signal to find targets. Instead, it can use the behaviour of the Starlink satellite to detect them. This means that it can work even if it's on a moving platform like a ship. The system doesn't emit a signal from its own location, which means it can adjust for its own movement.
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Aside from the advantages of conserving energy through the use of Starlink radiation for passive radar, this system is also undetectable by opponents, making it more resistant to interference from radiation.
FHR has recently come up with a new model that merges the Starlink signal and radiation obtained from geostationary TV satellites. This combination helps create a steady flow of radar imaging that can be conveniently captured for remote sensing purposes.
