A Self-Contained SDR Transceiver System for UAS Based Antenna Pattern Measurement and Phased Array Radar Calibration Validation

This paper discusses the novel development of a lightweight RF front-end system aimed at enhancing airborne antenna measurements in the far-field. The proposed system leverages advancements in software-defined radio (SDR) technology and high-performance RF front-end systems. While there are instances of SDR applications in UAS measurements, these systems are predominantly designed for anti-UAS and communication purposes, lacking focus on antenna and radar characterization. In contrast, the proposed system is purposefully tailored for RF applications, completely self-contained and airborne, possessing both RX and TX capabilities, and minimizing reliance on ground-based components. The system facilitates transmission and reception in both H- and V-polarization, employing two independent channels. Consequently, it allows for the simultaneous measurement of antenna or radar properties in both co-polar (Cp) and cross-polar (Xp) orientations. The comparison between antenna measurements conducted within an anechoic chamber and those carried out utilizing the proposed UAS system demonstrates a substantial level of agreement.