Rohde & Schwarz has launched the R&S WPU2000 wideband processing unit, a high-performance electronic intelligence (ELINT) receiver that incorporates cutting-edge radar detection technology. Following the success of the R&S WPU500, the newly introduced solution increases its real-time bandwidth to 2 GHz. This newly developed wideband processing unit will be the new core of radar signal collection and analysis systems from Rohde & Schwarz. Its excellent RF performance along with its great signal processing power make the R&S WPU2000 truly outstanding in the ELINT market.
The R&S WPU2000 covers a broad frequency range (20 MHz to 18 GHz optionally extendable down to 8 kHz or up to 40 GHz). Its 2 GHz real-time bandwidth allows interception and analysis of the most complex wideband signals emitted by state-of-the-art frequency agile radar systems. The R&S WPU2000 can cope with any radar environment and intercepts even weak signals of low-power radars, due to its excellent sensitivity and high dynamic range. Its high detection range allows ELINT operators to remain in secure standoff positions without the need to approach an emitting target. With its high spectral scan speed of up to 2500 GHz per second, this newly launched wideband processing unit is perfectly equipped to detect and process all types of low probability of intercept (LPI) radars.
Integrated into ELINT systems, R&S WPU2000 delivers required information about intercepted radar emissions, including continuous raw I/Q data and measured pulse parameters. This information is vital for the characterization of radar signals and the subsequent identification of their emitters. R&S WPU2000 enhances situational awareness and supports platform protection in theaters of operations.
Bosco Novak, Executive Vice President, Monitoring and Network Testing at Rohde & Schwarz stated that one of the core components of their ELINT systems is the new R&S WPU2000 multi-channel processor, which collects, processes, and analyses modern low power, LPI radar signals. These include wideband, multi-RF, high duty cycle radar emissions, such as those that are produced by an active electronically scanned array (AESA). The fast scan speed of R&S WPU2000 contributes to a high probability of intercept (POI).
The ELINT receiver is able to resolve and process even complex scenarios featuring modern radar signals, including wideband, multi-channel and high-duty-cycle radar emissions.