INTEGRATED RADAR-COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS: A UNIFIED MIMO PLATFORM APPROACH

Abstract

This research presents a comprehensive study of a unified MIMO-based radar-communication (RadCom) platform that utilizes Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM), aimed at addressing the growing need for multifunctional systems that can simultaneously detect, track, and communicate information using shared hardware and spectral resources. Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) is employed to embed communication data into radar emissions, preserving the radar’s mainlobe integrity while utilizing sidelobe regions for communication. This method is designed to counteract jamming and ensure reliable data delivery even in contested environments. Additionally, a time-domain strategy is introduced using radar rest mode for continuous communication transmission. Performance evaluation is conducted through comprehensive simulations using metrics such as Bit Error Rate (BER), Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), Cramer-Rao Lower Bound (CRLB), and communication throughput per Pulse Repetition Interval (PRI). The results demonstrate that the proposed dual-mode transmission strategy significantly improves data throughput and system resilience, with minimal impact on radar accuracy and resolution. Furthermore, the system enables multi-user connectivity through independently modulated sidelobes and adaptive beampattern control.