Agile RF Systems LLC has proposed a new breakthrough in conformal phased array technology through a new hybrid scan antenna architecture. This approach combines the advantages of conventional phased arrays with pragmatic low cost mechanically actuated subsystems to realize a very low profile two-dimensionally scanned antenna. Through this combination of technologies, a much lower system cost can be realized while eliminating performance degrading drag from the aircraft. As UAS platforms get smaller and become more capable, low cost and low profile solutions are even more critical to operate these systems autonomously and beyond line of sight. Furthermore, the inherent reconfigurability of the design lends itself to multiband SATCOM realization. The building blocks all scale to support each of the bands while active feed networks can share space in order to minimize the overall installation size.;
Benefit: As the deployment of UAS becomes more and more ubiquitous, the need for conformal communication antenna technologies that support either line of sight or in particular beyond line of sight (through use of SATellite COMmunication networks) becomes increasingly critical to UAS wide spread utilization. This low profile antenna breakthrough is a great fit for all airborne (manned and unmanned) SATCOM antenna needs because it eliminates flight endurance degrading drag. By offering a multiband, low cost and low profile alternative antenna to gimbaled SATCOM antenna solutions requiring substantial height, future UAS designs can take advantage of optimal aerodynamic shaping to achieve maximum flight endurance and efficiency for USAF and civil communication services.
