In a significant stride towards enhancing maritime stealth technology, a recent study published in the Chinese Journal of Ship Research (Zhongguo Jianchuan Yanjiu) proposes a novel approach to optimize the application of radar-absorbing materials (RAM) on ships. The research, led by Simi Tang from Unit 92942 of the People’s Liberation Army in Beijing, addresses the practical challenges of traditional RAM coatings, such as increased weight, cost, and maintenance demands.
The study introduces a multi-objective optimization design strategy based on radar echo feature development technology. This approach aims to pinpoint the most critical areas on a ship and its equipment where RAM should be applied, thereby minimizing the overall impact on the vessel’s performance and operational costs.
“Our method accurately determines the key coating areas,” Tang explained. “By focusing on these specific regions, we can significantly reduce the ship’s Radar Cross Section (RCS) without compromising the vessel’s structural integrity or increasing maintenance workload excessively.”
The research involved radar imaging analysis of a ship to optimize its RCS and coating area. The team generated both Pareto and non-Pareto solution sets, which are sets of solutions that represent the best trade-offs between different objectives. Through inverse modeling, they inferred engineering application scenarios that could be practically implemented.
The results were promising, with simulations yielding at least 10 Pareto optimal solutions, including bipolar solutions. When applying inverse engineering based on the Pareto solution, the ship’s total average RCS decreased by more than 53% with a coating area ratio of less than 11%.
For the maritime industry, these findings present substantial opportunities. Ships equipped with optimized RAM coatings could achieve a lower RCS, making them less detectable by enemy radars and enhancing their stealth capabilities. This is particularly valuable for naval vessels operating in high-threat environments.
Moreover, the reduced coating area ratio means lower material costs and less maintenance work, which can translate to significant savings over the vessel’s lifecycle. The method’s effectiveness and engineering value for RCS control of ship targets have been demonstrated, offering a practical solution to a longstanding challenge in maritime stealth technology.
As the global maritime industry continues to evolve, the demand for advanced stealth technologies is expected to grow. This research provides a solid foundation for further developments in RAM optimization, paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective stealth solutions in the future.