Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Signal Processing and Machine Learning

DOI: 10.54254/2755-2721/112/20251726

The Latest Development of Synthetic Aperture Radar: An

Overview

Jiuyi Guo
Wuhan University, 299 Bayi Road, Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei, China

1827757840@qq.com

Abstract. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology enables high-resolution imaging

regardless of weather conditions, offering immense potential for target detection and recognition.
This paper reviews the latest advancements in SAR technology, highlighting key developments
and applications. The limitations of traditional SAR imaging techniques, particularly the trade-
off between resolution and swath width, have been addressed by High Resolution Wide Swath
(HRWS) SAR, enabling simultaneous acquisition of high-resolution and wide-swath data. Multi-
polarimetric SAR provides richer scattering information for improved target recognition
accuracy, while deep learning algorithms enhance image quality and recognition performance.
Emerging technologies like 3D-ISAR and holographic imaging offer novel approaches to target
recognition and tracking. We discuss the development history, performance advantages, and
limitations of these technologies, providing a comprehensive overview of their practical
applications. We identify current challenges and future trends in SAR target imaging and
recognition, including computational efficiency, adversarial attack defense, data acquisition and
processing, and feature extraction and classification. Potential research directions, such as
integrated multi-mode SAR systems, multi-source data fusion, and adversarial attack defense
strategies, are outlined to fully harness the potential of SAR technology in target imaging and
recognition.

Keywords: Synthetic Aperture Radar, Imaging, Object Detection.

1. Introduction
Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is an important remote sensing technology that plays a significant role
in target imaging and recognition, as shown in Figure 1. It can achieve fine imaging and recognition of
ground targets, unaffected by light, weather and other conditions, and has the ability to image all-weather.
Traditional SAR imaging methods are mainly based on frequency-domain algorithms, such as strip
mode, scan mode, and beam mode. There is a certain contradiction between the imaging resolution and
mapping bandwidth of these methods, and it is difficult to meet the needs of high resolution and wide
mapping at the same time. In order to overcome this limitation, High Resolution Wide Swath (HRWS)
SAR imaging technology has emerged. HRWS SAR can obtain azimuth high-resolution and wide swath
SAR data at the same time, which brings new opportunities and challenges to SAR target imaging and
recognition.

© 2024 The Authors. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0
(https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).

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Figure 1. An example of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR). (25 cm SAR image from Umbra) [1].

In addition to HRWS SAR, other imaging technologies such as multi-polarimetric SAR and
holographic imaging have also been gradually applied to target imaging and recognition. Multi-
polarimetric SAR can provide more abundant scattering information, which helps to improve the
accuracy of target recognition. Holographic imaging can achieve more accurate imaging and can be used
for target recognition and target tracking.
However, SAR target imaging and recognition still face some challenges. For example, complex
marine background environment, azimuth ambiguity, side-lobe ambiguity and other factors will affect
the performance of target detection. In addition, the difficulty of target feature extraction and
classification and recognition in SAR images is also great, which needs further research and
improvement.
The main content of this paper is to discuss the research progress of SAR technology in target
imaging and recognition. Chapter 2 reviews and discusses the related reviews. Although there are some
related reviews at present, they are not comprehensive enough for the application of SAR technology in
target imaging and recognition. Therefore, chapter 3 mainly discusses SAR target imaging technology,
chapter 4 mainly discusses SAR target recognition technology. Finally, the current technical challenges
and future directions are discussed in chapter 5. Chapter 6 is the conclusion.

2. Review and Discussion of Related Reviews

At present, there are some review articles on SAR, such as [2-4], which have reviewed SAR image
processing, covering target detection, target recognition, image registration and other aspects. Existing
literatures have emphasized the important role of deep learning technology in SAR image processing
and analyzed the performance of various deep learning models and algorithms [5-6]. In addition, three
articles have also discussed the challenges and future development directions in SAR image processing,
such as data scarcity, class imbalance, real-time performance, and interpretability [8-10]. A summary of
existing surveys is listed in Table 1.
Table 1. A summary of existing surveys.
Existing
Summary Advantages Shortcomings
Survey
The article provides a The article provides a Although the
[1] comprehensive overview of detailed introduction to article mentions
SAR image processing, deep learning methods, GAN and semantic

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Table 1. (continued).

covering various aspects especially the e-network segmentation

such as target detection, and its variants, and methods, it lacks
target recognition, and discusses their application in-depth discussion
image registration. in SAR optical registration. on these emerging
technologies.
The article provides a
The article introduces
comprehensive overview of
commonly used SAR target
traditional and deep learning
recognition datasets and Lack of in-depth
methods for SAR target
evaluation indicators, such discussion on the
[2] recognition, including non-
as MSTAR, OpenSARShip, latest research
CNN models and CNN
OpenSARUrban, and trends.
models, as well as methods
precision, recall, F1 score,
for solving the problem of
etc.
limited samples.
The article conducts an in-
The article provides a The article
depth analysis of different
comprehensive overview of provides a brief
target detection and target
SAR image analysis overview of
recognition methods,
techniques based on deep different deep
including methods based on
[3] learning, including target learning models,
SSD and CFAR, as well as
detection and target but the comparison
methods based on CNN,
recognition, as well as and analysis
and discusses their
different CNN architectures between them are
advantages and
and parameter settings. limited.
disadvantages.

3. SAR Target Imaging Technology

SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) target imaging technology has made significant progress in recent years,
providing a powerful observation means for the remote sensing field. This section reviews the latest
research trends of SAR target imaging technology, focusing on the innovative achievements in imaging
algorithms, imaging quality improvement, target feature extraction and recognition, and compares them
with the old methods about 14 years ago, analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each.

3.1. Current SAR target imaging technologies

Current SAR target imaging technologies mainly include multi-static SAR systems, terahertz SAR
systems, 3D-ISAR systems, and SAR systems based on deep learning technology, as shown in Table 2.
Table 2. Different types of SAR systems.
Type Description
Multi-static SAR Utilizes multiple transmitters and receivers to obtain data
system simultaneously to achieve more accurate imaging and monitoring.
Terahertz SAR Utilizes the high resolution and penetration ability of the terahertz
system band to achieve more accurate imaging and target recognition.
Utilizes 3D point cloud information to achieve more accurate target
3D-ISAR system
recognition and classification.
Deep learning
Utilizes deep learning technology for image enhancement.
technology

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3.2. Review and analysis of the latest progress

Meng X et al. proposed a polarization formatting algorithm (PFA) imaging processing system based on
multi-core digital signal processor (DSP) for processing high squint angle airborne SAR data [11]. The
system uses pulse compression and PFA algorithm for imaging processing, and uses adaptive focusing
technology for phase error compensation. The system realizes high-speed imaging processing on multi-
core DSP, and can generate 2K*2K images to meet the requirements of real-time processing.
Yonel B et al. proposed a phase-less SAR imaging technology based on multi-static configuration
and incoherent waveform, using Wirtinger Flow (WF) algorithm for image reconstruction [12]. The
technology uses multiple transmitters and a single receiver, and generates forward mapping of
approximate Gaussian by random waveform. WF algorithm can process the deviation between forward
mapping and Gaussian distribution, and realize approximate image reconstruction.
Villano M et al. explored the potential of multi-static SAR system in Earth observation and
demonstrated it using drone swarms. Multi-static SAR system can obtain all data required to form a
digital elevation model (DEM) and high-resolution mapping at the same time [13]. Drone swarms can
be used to test multi-static concepts and obtain mapping data with sub-hour time resolution.
Tian H et al. combined airborne cross-track array SAR technology and sparse flight sampling method,
and proposed an effective image reconstruction algorithm based on compressed sensing (CS) to improve
the 3D image quality of airborne array SAR downward observation [14]. The algorithm compresses the
SAR signal spectrum to a narrowband by interferometric measurement technology, and then uses CS
theory for sparse reconstruction. The effectiveness of the algorithm has been proven in simulation
experiments.
Pui C Y et al. proposed a 3D-ISAR target classification scheme based on convolutional neural
network (CNN), using the density map of target 3D point cloud as input features [15]. The scheme uses
point cloud density map (PDI) as features and uses CNN for target classification. The scheme has been
tested on simulation data and real data, and its effectiveness has been proven.
Ren H et al. analyzed the spatial correlation characteristics of medium orbit/missile-carried bistatic
SAR systems, laying the foundation for the imaging algorithm of the system [16]. The research
established an accurate geometric model of MEO/missile-carried bistatic SAR and analyzed the phase
characteristics under high squint angle and large scenes. The study analyzed the spatial variance
characteristics of MEO/missile-carried bistatic SAR and pointed out that the azimuth variance is the
main spatial variance.

3.3. Comparison and Summary of the Latest Progress with the Old Technology Methods
The old method proposed in has the advantages of requiring only a single SAR image, being suitable
for new high-resolution SAR sensors, and being able to process different building shapes and
perspectives [17]. The old method proposed in has the advantages of being able to measure the average
deformation speed of scatterers and extract time series to monitor nonlinear deformation [18]. These
two old literatures have broadened the horizons for subsequent research. However, the former has the
disadvantage of lower accuracy in height estimation for low-resolution SAR data, and the latter has the
disadvantage of higher computational complexity and the need for appropriate thresholds to determine
scatterers for low-noise data. In contrast, the latest technologies can achieve 360° omnidirectional
observation imaging and obtain more comprehensive and abundant azimuth scattering information. The
deep learning method represented by can process target images under different perspectives with high
classification accuracy and computational efficiency [15]. If we can continue to explore and apply
technologies such as deep learning, we may even be able to continue to improve resolution while
reducing computational time by improving computational efficiency.

4. SAR Target Recognition Technology

SAR target recognition technology, as one of the key technologies in the field of radar imaging, has
made significant progress in recent years. This section reviews the latest research results in the field of
SAR target imaging and recognition, focusing on SAR target recognition technology and elaborating on

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algorithm innovation and data processing, comparing them with the old methods 15 years ago and
analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Currently, deep learning is widely used in SAR target recognition applications, including using deep
learning technology for image enhancement to improve image quality and facilitate subsequent
processing and analysis, using deep learning technology for target recognition to improve recognition
accuracy and efficiency, and using knowledge distillation technology to transfer the knowledge of
complex networks to lightweight networks to realize the deployment of SAR target recognition
algorithms on edge platforms.

4.1. Review and Analysis of the Latest Progress

Alpala R J et al. developed a test statistic based on bootstrap-improved non-parametric entropy
estimation to identify deviations from the fully developed speckle hypothesis in intensity SAR data [19].
This method uses a non-parametric entropy estimator to evaluate the deviation from the fully developed
speckle hypothesis in intensity SAR data.
Liu L et al. proposed an inshore ship detection method based on deep neural networks for SAR
images [20]. This method proposes a land-sea segmentation method based on multi-scale fully
convolutional networks (MS-FCN) and a target detection method based on rotatable bounding boxes
(DR-Box) to solve the problem of inshore ship detection.

4.2. Comparison and Summary of the Latest Progress with the Old Technology Methods
The old technology method proposed in the literature [21] has demonstrated advantages such as high
recognition accuracy, strong robustness, and no need for motion correction, providing reference and
ideas for the progress of the latest technology. However, compared with the traditional majority voting
method (Boyer-Moore Algorithm), the algorithm complexity of the fractional fusion method is higher
and requires more computing power. The latest technology widely uses machine learning. Once the
machine learning model is trained, it can complete image parsing tasks in a very short time, which is
crucial for time-sensitive SAR application scenarios (such as disaster response). In addition, with the
progress of algorithms and computing power, machine learning models can be continuously optimized,
and performance can be continuously improved.

5. Future Challenges and Directions

5.1. Challenges
The first challenge is computational efficiency: The computational efficiency of rapid SAR imaging
algorithms is still a challenge and requires further research and development of more efficient algorithms,
such as parallel computing on new hardware platforms (such as high-performance GPUs). The second
challenge is adversarial attack defense: CNN-based target recognition methods are vulnerable to
adversarial attacks. The third challenge is data acquisition and processing: The acquisition of HRWS
SAR and polarimetric SAR data requires more complex systems and technologies, and more effective
data processing methods need to be studied, such as data compression and denoising techniques. The
fourth challenge is featuring extraction and classification recognition: The difficulty of target feature
extraction and classification recognition in SAR images is relatively large, and further research and
improvement are needed, such as continuing to study feature extraction and classification recognition
methods based on deep learning, and studying feature extraction and classification recognition methods
based on multi-source data fusion. The fifth challenge is adaptability to application scenarios: Some
imaging technologies and recognition algorithms have limitations in their application scenarios and need
to be selected and adjusted according to specific needs, such as studying customized imaging and
recognition algorithms for different application scenarios.

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5.2. Future Directions

The first research direction is integrated, multi-mode SAR imaging and recognition: Develop SAR
imaging systems that can simultaneously obtain high-resolution and wide swath SAR data, as well as
SAR target recognition technology based on deep learning. The second research direction is multi-
source data fusion: fuse SAR data with other remote sensing data (such as optical images and LiDAR
data) to gain a more comprehensive understanding of targets and the environment. The third research
direction is adversarial attack defense: CNN-based target recognition methods are vulnerable to
adversarial attacks, especially many existing attack methods can attack without prior knowledge of the
target model’s categories and parameters. Corresponding adversarial methods include Gradient Masking
and Gradient Confusion. Gradient Masking adds noise or perturbations to the model, making it difficult
for attackers to accurately obtain model gradient information and reducing the success rate of attacks.
Gradient Confusion adds confusing terms to the model, making it difficult for attackers to distinguish
between the real gradients and confusing terms of the model, thus reducing the success rate of attacks.

6. Technical Problems and Inferences

6.1. Technical Problems

• SAR data requires complex signal processing to generate high-resolution images. This includes tasks
like motion compensation, speckle filtering, and focusing algorithms.
• There's always a push to improve the resolution of SAR images, which can be limited by factors such
as the wavelength of the radar signal and the size of the antenna.
• The atmosphere can introduce errors into SAR imagery, such as attenuation, refraction, and multipath
effects.
• SAR systems generate large volumes of data, which can be challenging to store, transmit, and process
efficiently.
• For airborne or spaceborne SAR, maintaining the stability of the platform is crucial for obtaining
high-quality images.

6.2. Inferences
• SAR can infer surface characteristics like roughness, moisture content, and type of material due to
its sensitivity to the backscattering coefficient.
• SAR data is often used to infer changes in the environment, such as deforestation, urban expansion,
and natural disasters.
• SAR can penetrate clouds and provide data on wind speed and direction over the ocean, which is
valuable for weather prediction models.
• In the military context, SAR can be used to detect and classify targets based on their radar cross-
section and other signatures.

7. Conclusion
Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology has made significant progress in the field of target imaging
and recognition. In terms of imaging technology, it has developed from traditional strip mode, scan
mode, and spotlight mode to High Resolution Wide Swath (HRWS) SAR, polarimetric SAR, terahertz
SAR, 3D-ISAR, and others, which can obtain more accurate and comprehensive target information.
Deep learning technology has demonstrated strong capabilities in SAR image classification, target
detection, feature extraction, and other aspects, significantly improving recognition accuracy and
efficiency. In addition, multi-source data fusion technology integrates SAR data with other remote
sensing data, such as optical images and LiDAR data, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of
targets and the environment, improving the reliability of target recognition.
In the future, SAR technology development will move towards the direction of integrated, multi-
mode imaging. SAR imaging systems that can simultaneously obtain high-resolution and wide swath

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data will be developed, combined with deep learning technology for target recognition to achieve higher
efficiency and accuracy. At the same time, artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies will
play a greater role in SAR target imaging and recognition, such as target tracking based on reinforcement
learning and model robustness improvement based on adversarial training. In addition, multi-source data
fusion technology will continue to develop, integrating SAR data with other remote sensing data to gain
a more comprehensive understanding of targets and the environment, improving the reliability of target
recognition [22, 23].

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