EASA NAV(A)intermediate
Compare primary radar and secondary surveillance radar, including the role of airborne equipment.
Answer
Primary radar transmits pulses and detects energy reflected by the aircraft, so it does not require an aircraft response. SSR interrogates the aircraft transponder, which replies with coded information. The airborne equipment required for SSR is a transponder.
Explanation
Primary radar is non-cooperative: it relies on reflected energy. SSR is cooperative because the aircraft's transponder receives an interrogation and sends a reply. This distinction explains why SSR can provide coded identification and altitude information while primary radar depends on reflected returns. **Key takeaway:** Primary radar detects reflections; SSR uses transponder replies. **Glossary:** SSR: secondary surveillance radar; transponder: airborne equipment that receives and answers interrogations.
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