COMPACT RADAR ALTIMETER

A Compact Radar Altimeter is a short-range radio frequency instrument that measures the vertical distance between an aircraft, drone, or aerial platform and the ground surface directly below it. Unlike barometric altimeters that calculate altitude based on atmospheric pressure relative to a reference datum, radar altimeters provide absolute terrain clearance measurements by emitting a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) or pulsed radar signal downward and calculating altitude from the two-way travel time of the reflected return signal.

Operating frequency on compact radar altimeters typically falls within the 4.2GHz to 4.4GHz Ku-band or C-band range, with some miniaturized units operating at higher millimeter-wave frequencies for improved resolution at low altitudes. Measurement range on compact models covers 0 to 1,500 meters above ground level (AGL), with altitude accuracy of ±0.3 meters to ±1 meter at low-level flight altitudes below 150 meters — the operational range most critical for terrain-following flight, landing approach, and low-altitude navigation.

The unit’s compact form factor — typically 150mm to 250mm in length and weighing between 300g and 900g — makes it suitable for integration into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), helicopters, light fixed-wing aircraft, and aerial survey platforms. Output interfaces include RS-232, RS-422, ARINC 429, and analog voltage signals for compatibility with existing avionics and autopilot systems. Update rates of 10Hz to 100Hz provide continuous altitude data for dynamic flight control applications.

Operating temperature ranges typically span -40°C to +70°C, with MIL-STD-810 environmental qualification on defense-grade variants covering shock, vibration, and humidity exposure.

In Pakistan, compact radar altimeters are relevant for UAV operations, military aviation, aerial survey missions, and helicopter low-level navigation across varied terrain.

Tactical Supply Pakistan supplies compact radar altimeters for aviation, UAV integration, and defense procurement across Pakistan.