Ultra-Wideband Structurally Integrated Antenna Architectures

As the need for engaging targets in difficult environments grows, ultra-wideband and structurally integrated antenna architectures have gained interest. However, these antenna architectures must conform to the limited size and overall outer-mold line of the weapon platforms. Next-generation seekers must perform frequency agile radar and communication waveforms, which will require ultra-wideband apertures. These structurally integrated and conformal antenna arrays may also allow for extended field of regard than traditional nose mounted seekers. Wang Electro-Opto Corporation (WEO) has demonstrated, under USAF SBIR Phase-I topic AF161-110, a feasible approach for an ultra-wideband structurally integrated antennas suitable for the next generation of radar seekers. The approach leverages WEOs deep and broad knowledge, technology, and experience in this topic, and in particular its patented Traveling-Wave Antenna Array (TWAA), which has achieved TRL-7 and MRL-7 under an NAVSEA SBIR Phase-II program completed on 5 June 2016. The proposed seeker array antenna is thin and conformal to the surface of the missile, and should be able to meet all performance goals, covering entire Ku and Ka bands. Two identical breadboard models will be developed in Phase-II: one to be delivered to AFRL for independent assessment, the other for continued inhouse study, Phase-III work, and commercialization.