HF Radar antenna near field assessment using a UAV

This paper deals with a system aboard a UAV used to map the electric near field, in magnitude and phase, radiated by an antenna operating in the HF band (3-30 MHz). The objective is to characterize the radiation pattern of antennas that are commonly integrated in HF surface wave radar. An innovative and original approach is required because usual characterization methods do not suit well for that frequency band. The proposed device is described in the paper and associated constraints are highlighted. A trial of that system has been performed on a monopole antenna, and comparisons between measurements and simulations are in good agreement.