What is the main difference between monostatic and bistatic radars?

The main difference lies in the configuration of the transmitters and receivers. In monostatic radars, the transmitter and receiver are located at the same site, which allows for a straightforward setup where the radar emits a signal and then receives the echo from targets in its surrounding area almost simultaneously. This configuration is beneficial for various applications due to its simplicity and effectiveness in maintaining a clear line of sight.

In contrast, bistatic radars have the transmitter and receiver located at different sites. This separation allows for different operational capabilities, such as detecting targets from unique angles and potentially reducing the radar's exposure to counter-detection measures. The bistatic configuration can enhance the radar’s ability to detect low-observable targets and improve coverage in certain landscapes where a monostatic setup might be constrained.

While it's true that monostatic radars are commonly used for military applications, this characteristic applies to both types of radar, making it not the key distinction. Furthermore, the frequency of operation is not inherently defined by whether a radar is monostatic or bistatic; both types can operate over a wide range of frequencies, depending on their design and intended use. Thus, the clarification that monostatic radars have collocated transmitters and receivers, while bistatic