Design and Development of SWaP Optimized C-Ku Band RF-Front End for Futuristic EW Systems

This paper presents a compact RF front-end designed for Electronic Warfare (EW) systems, utilizing a state-of-the-art C-Ku band dual 16 Transmit-Receive channel plank. The system integrates 192 closely spaced $T$/R modules across six planks, along with bidirectional amplifiers, a master controller, calibration circuits, RF, control, and DC-power manifolds into a single chassis, greatly improving array performance and integration. Each T/R module delivers typical 30 dBm of output power, enabling the system to achieve an Effective Radiated Power (ERP) of more than 62 dBm across the entire band. Leveraging Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) MMICs, the system provides precise phase control and adaptive beam steering, enhancing detection and jamming capabilities. Liquid cooling manifolds are incorporated for thermal management. Optimized for Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C), this design is compact and suitable for airborne applications.