What is the primary distinction between fire control radar and search radar?

The primary distinction between fire control radar and search radar lies in their specific functions within radar systems. Fire control radar is designed explicitly for tracking and targeting specific objects, such as enemy aircraft or missiles, once they have been detected. It provides precise data that enables weapon systems to engage these targets effectively, ensuring a higher probability of a successful engagement.

In contrast, search radar is tasked with detecting and identifying multiple targets over a wide area. It operates at longer ranges and serves as the initial detection phase of radar operations, providing situational awareness before targets are handed off to fire control radar for precise targeting. This fundamental difference in focus and use clearly defines fire control radar as the system that actively engages and tracks targets, while search radar lays the groundwork by spotting potential threats.