What characterizes a bistatic sensor system?

A bistatic sensor system is characterized by having a transmitter located in one position and the receiver situated in a separate location. This configuration allows for unique operational advantages in certain military and surveillance applications. The separation of the transmitter and receiver can enhance detection capabilities and improve the system's resilience to countermeasures.

In this arrangement, the signal transmitted from the transmitter travels to the target and reflects back, where it is then captured by the receiver. This setup can offer improved accuracy and better signal-to-noise ratios, as well as the ability to utilize different locations for transmitting and receiving signals, thus adding to the tactical flexibility of the system.

Understanding this configuration is crucial as it differentiates bistatic systems from monostatic systems, where both functions (transmission and reception) occur at the same site, limiting operational versatility and potentially exposing the system to enemy detection.