Future electronically steered antennas for airborne radar

The electronically scanned antenna introduces a technological breakthrough in airborne radar. First the beam agility makes search and tracking completely independent, opens the way to new detection strategies and improves dramatically the tactical situation acquisition. It enables also simultaneous modes implementation. By suppressing the mechanical parts, it increases the reliability, makes easier the platform installation and reduces the antenna RCS. An active electronically scanned antenna (AESA) offers even more potentialities with an improved power budget thanks to loss reduction and beam shaping capabilities which enables one to adapt the radiating pattern to the environment. This paper first describes the operational benefits given by these technologies for the different airborne radar applications i.e. fighter radar, airborne early warning (AEW) systems, air to ground surveillance (AGS) and maritime patrol radar. Then it describes the competing ESA solutions. To conclude, the more suitable solutions are proposed according to the main constraints and requirements related to the different applications.