How do height-finding radars add information to air-defense tracking systems?

In the context of air-defense tracking systems, height-finding radars are essential for providing the third dimension of spatial data for detected targets.1

While standard surveillance radars typically provide two-dimensional information—such as range and azimuth (bearing)—they often lack the precision required to determine an object's altitude. Height-finding radars add this critical vertical component, allowing air-defense systems to form complete, three-dimensional tracks of detected aircraft. By integrating this altitude data with other inputs, such as identification friend or foe (IFF) signals and pre-filed flight plans, command and control systems can accurately monitor the airspace, reject false returns like cloud clutter, and make informed decisions regarding the deployment of interceptors or surface-to-air missiles.1