What are the three phases of operation for the Tracking RADAR?

• A. Designation, Acquisition, Track
• B. Acquisition, Track, Engage
• C. Designation, Track, Acquisition
• D. Search, Acquire, Track

Answer: (A)

The three phases of operation for a Tracking RADAR are designation, acquisition, and track.

Designation is the step where the system identifies the target and assigns it a specific cue or designation so the rest of the fire-control system knows exactly which object to follow. Acquisition follows, where the radar locates that designated target and establishes an initial measurement of its position to begin tracking. Finally, tracking keeps a continuous update of the target’s position and motion, providing the data needed to maintain a precise lock and guide any associated weapons or systems.

This order makes sense because you first tell the system which target to focus on, then you find it reliably, and then you continuously monitor it to compensate for movement. The other options mix in engagement (a weapon action), or start with searching, which isn’t the typical sequence for a Tracking RADAR’s three core phases.