# Probability of Detection and pulse-pulse decorrelation time

I'm trying to analyze the probability of detection ($P_d$) for a Swerling II target. I know that the Swerling II target assumes that the Radar Cross Section (RCS) is an exponential probability density function, and that the RCS fluctuates from pulse-to-pulse.

My question is: Do the Swerling models assume perfect decorrelation from pulse-pulse? As in, do they assume that the RCS on each pulse is purely independent of other pulses, or do they account for some correlation?

The target I'm trying to analyze does not perfectly decorrelate between pulses. So, the RCS on pulse #2 will be somewhat correlated to that on pulse #1.

• FYI - this isn't a homework question. I'm a graduate student working on a weather radar. – Rob Aug 24 '15 at 13:06
• I would recommend asking the moderators to move this question to dsp.SE or electronics.SE. You can contact the moderators by clicking on the flag link below your question. – Dilip Sarwate Aug 24 '15 at 13:17
• @DilipSarwate: I get a vibe that our sister site on statistics might be even better than DSP? You know this better, what do you think? – Jyrki Lahtonen Aug 27 '15 at 7:16
• I've been monitoring the DSP site, it seems very similar. It is stats, but it's pretty radar-specific – Rob Aug 27 '15 at 9:52
• @JyrkiLahtonen The frst question is about assumptions in Swering models. I think that it is more likely that someone with knowledge of the Swerling models will be found on dsp.SE than on stats.SE. The second question "What do I do about it?" might find a better answer on stats.SE but the question has likely been looked at already in the radar literature, and the person who knows about Swerling models might be able to tell the OP where to find the answer. That being said, if stats.SE wants the question, give it to them. – Dilip Sarwate Aug 27 '15 at 12:51