Wideband multibeam antenna for integration in small platforms

A wideband multibeam antenna for integration in small platforms such as UAV's has been demonstrated. The demonstration was performed on a single facet comprising an 8 × 4 bowtie antenna elements array and a beamforming network which includes both transmitter and receiver chains and can therefore be used in multifunction systems for EW and communication. The operating frequency band chosen for this demonstrator is 6-15 GHz. Due to the modularity of the concept, the demonstrated facet can either be used stand alone or forming a faceted array depending on the required field of coverage and/or platform structure. A compact and lightweight phased array concept for 360° coverage is also discussed.