An Improved CLEAN Algorithm for Multi-Target Detection in LFM Pulse Radar

During the process of multi-target detection with high resolution radar, weak targets are difficult to detect from high range resolution profile as they are masked by the sidelobe leakage of strong targets. This paper proposes an improved CLEAN algorithm based on frequency-domain correlation, addressing the challenges in multi-target detection within linear frequency modulated pulse radar. Similar to the CLEAN method, the improved CLEAN method can precisely estimate the range and radar cross section of the strongest target in the echo signal. The proposed method sequentially eliminates sidelobe interference from strong targets, facilitating the separation and detection of strong and weak targets. In situations with densely distributed targets and significant differences in radar cross section, the proposed method also maintains robust multi-target detection performance. Simulations validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.