The SE135 Series interferometer antenna array consists of two antenna sub-arrays and their respective radome integrated into a single LRU. Operation is from 2-18 GHz, with the above mentioned antenna sub-arrays covering 2-6, and 6-18 GHz. The Radome, which is integrated into the panel, provides protection from the flight environment, thereby allowing the SE135 to operate in the airstream without need for any additional Radomes or aerodynamic fairings. The Radome is field replaceable and is designed for minimal insertion loss and phase error.
Phase-optimized Cavity-backed spiral apertures are utilized for the 2-6 GHz sub-array while the 6-18 GHz sub-array utilizes linear horn antennas. The horn are fitted with an integrated polarizing grid that converts the inherently H-Pol horns to Slant-45, thereby allowing for reception of linear (V-Pol and H-Pol), Slant-45, and circular polarized signals. The horns provide for increased antenna gain (versus conventional cavity-backed spiral apertures), which translates to increased system sensitivity.
The SE135 includes growth potential to 40 GHz via the installation within the LRU of an 18-40 GHz interferometer sub-array. This sub-array, which is based on array of high-gain horn antennas with an integrated polarizing grid, can be provided with a factory-new array and is also field installable (requires replacement of the radome as well), allowing for easy retrofit of fielded systems.
The SE135 Series has been designed to meet the stringent requirements of today’s manned and unmanned military platforms.
