Multiband phased-array antenna with interleaved tapered-elements and waveguide radiators

Multiband, multibeam, phased array antennas are required for today's multi-function radar and communication applications. These types of antennas play a major role in the shipboard and airborne environment, where space is limited. A single antenna is now asked to perform multiple functions, including long-range surveillance, navigation, weapons control, tracking and recognition, and electronic warfare support measures. A phased array antenna capable of covering several different frequency bands in a common aperture is highly desirable, and is currently being pursued for many of these applications. A number of multiband radar antenna configurations have been proposed in the past. An ultra-wideband phased array antenna design using interleaved waveguide elements and wideband tapered elements is presented. This phased array antenna can operate over at least three frequency bands. Numerical results of the aperture match for both types of radiators, including mutual interaction, are presented.