Navigation PPLintermediate
Compare primary radar and secondary surveillance radar.
Answer
Primary radar transmits energy and detects reflections from the aircraft to determine range and direction. SSR interrogates the aircraft's transponder, which replies with coded information. Primary radar does not require an onboard transponder, while SSR depends on a functioning transponder.
Explanation
Primary radar is a non-cooperative system: it detects energy reflected from an aircraft and derives direction from antenna orientation and range from signal timing. SSR is cooperative: a ground interrogator sends a request and an onboard transponder returns coded information. SSR can provide aircraft identity and pressure altitude when suitably equipped.\n\n**Key takeaway:** Primary radar listens for reflections; SSR receives transponder replies.\n\n**Glossary:** **Cooperative surveillance**: surveillance requiring an aircraft response; **transponder**: airborne receiver-transmitter that replies to interrogation.
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