Synthetic-aperture radar (SAR)
Radar imaging that sees through cloud and darkness by synthesising a large antenna from platform motion.
Synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) creates images with radar rather than light, using the motion of the platform to synthesise a much larger antenna than could physically be carried. The result is imagery through cloud, rain and darkness, and coherent change detection that reveals ground movement invisible to optical sensors. SAR is the all-weather half of a credible observation programme, complementing electro-optical collection.
In practice
Synthetic-aperture radar is the all-weather half of a credible observation programme, and Unstrat brings it in to give a national buyer a picture that does not go dark when the weather does. Because SAR images with radar rather than light, it sees through cloud, rain and darkness and reveals coherent change: ground movement invisible to optical sensors. The advantage for a defence or maritime buyer is persistent, dependable coverage regardless of conditions, complementing electro-optical collection so the mission is never blind at the wrong moment. Owning SAR collection and tasking keeps the capability sovereign and protects sensitive intelligence from routing through a foreign operator. As the accountable single channel, Unstrat integrates SAR alongside EO into a single, buyer-owned programme. Localisation arrangements are scoped per programme, subject to export controls and end-use approvals.