METHOD OF DETECTING A TARGET

A method for processing returns from a sensor, such as a radar system, in order to identify targets is provided. The method uses a track before detect routine to integrate data from several scans in order to give better discrimination. In running the track before detect routine however a number of possible target motions are postulated and the data combined accounting for such motions. A result above a threshold may then be indicative to a target present and moving with the postulated velocity. The method gives more accurate target detection as the combined data at the correct target motion postulate is more consistent than transient noise and clutter. Once a target has been identified it is preferably removed from the data set in searching for additional targets.