With the increasing usage frequency of airborne photoelectric radar, its detection distance seriously deviates from the factory indicators. Thus, the working principle of airborne photoelectric radar and the influences of the radiation intensity of the target, atmospheric condition and optical system on the maximum detection distance are analyzed. According to the detection principle of photoelectric radar, the design idea of a new type of portable test system is put forward. The blackbody and parallel light pipes are used to simulate the infrared radiation intensity of targets at infinity and the attenuation feet, stepping motor and transmission gear are combined to simulate different atmospheric conditions. Thus its prototype is ultimately determined and the infrared attenuation measurement test is finished. In addition, the application method and test results of the novel portable photoelectric radar test system are described. As for this test system, it is easy to carry, its test efficiency is high, it is suitable for extremely harsh environmental conditions, and it can be extended to various types of infrared detection system performance tests.