Optimum Code Design Using Genetic Algorithm in Frequency Hopping Dual Function MIMO Radar Communication Systems

We consider a code-shift keying (CSK) dual-function radar-communication (DFRC) system where the radar implements frequency hopping wideband signal that is modulated by the communication symbols. Each symbol is represented by a phase coded waveform with derivative phase shift keying (DPSK) modulation. The information sequences are multiplied with the FH waveforms in fast-time and are transmitted through the multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar platforms. We use the genetic algorithm (GA) to design the optimum CSK sequences to reduce the radar range sidelobes modulation (RSM) which is imperative for clutter mitigation. It is shown that the optimal CSK sequences yield a substantial reduction in the range sidelobe level (RSL) fluctuations by simultaneously reducing the DFRC system's RSLs. Additionally, the proposed DFRC system with the optimized waveform design provides good spectrum containment and achieves high communication data rates by enabling the repeated use of hopping code values in the FH code design.