A comparison of high power solid state GaAs FETs versus microwave power modules from a user's perspective: the Cooperative Engagement Capability program

This paper presents data resulting from a comparison between two alternate high power (>100 watts) transmitter technologies, solid state GaAs FETs and Microwave Power Modules (MPMs), used to drive individual elements of an airborne array for the Navy's Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) program. The results should help others select between competing technologies when size, weight, cooling, and prime power concerns are critical (i.e., aircraft, satellites, ground mobile units, and high power arrays).