Understanding the use of ground-penetrating radar for assessing clandestine tunnel detection

Abstract

We provide a coherent approach for developing an understanding of how and where ground-penetrating radar (GPR) can be deployed for tunnel detection. While tunnels in general are of interest, the more specific focus is tunnels that are hand dug or created with a minimal amount of equipment and resources for clandestine purposes. Determining whether GPR can be used for tunnel detection is impossible without an in-depth knowledge of the operational environment and constraints. To effectively address the question, we define the general characteristics of clandestine tunnels, discuss how to estimate the responses amplitude, define the dominant noise types associated with GPR data, and point out how those factors are affected by the GPR system. The key aspects are illustrated using a controlled field case study.