Fire-control radar

This makes them less suitable for initial detection of the target, and FCRs are often partnered with a medium-range search radar to fill this role.

Moisture lapse and temperature inversion often cause ducting, in which RF energy is bent as it passes through hot and cold layers.

This can provide valuable tactical information, like the maximum range of the weapon, or flaws that can be exploited, to combatants that are listening for these signs.

One of the first successful fire-control radars, the SCR-584, was used effectively and extensively by the Allies during World War II for anti-aircraft gun laying.

Since World War II, the U.S. Army has used radar for directing anti-aircraft missiles including the MIM-23 Hawk, the Nike series and currently the MIM-104 Patriot.