Comparison of Theoretical and Experimental Pixel-on-Target Metrics for Early UAV Detection Using Multi-Sensor EO/IR System

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis comparing theoretical model predictions and experimental measurements of the number of pixels on target (PoT) for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using multi-sensor electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems. The primary objective is to evaluate the fidelity of theoretical range prediction models that use the number of PoT as a metric, comparing these calculated values against experimental field measurements. The data used in this analysis were acquired using both visible (VIS) and mid-wave infrared (MWIR) channels, with the target UAV positioned at known reference distances up to 900 m. The results quantitatively demonstrate the deviations between the two methodologies, providing critical insights into the practical limitations of performance prediction models for early drone detection systems operating under field conditions.