KEYNOTE: Beamforming Technology Advancements for Phased Array Radar Systems

Phased Array Radar Systems are evolving to address key system requirements of range and resolution, while enhancing beam configurability and reducing Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C). Physical size, weight and power dissipation of phased array electronics is an important consideration. For example, at 12 GHz, λ/2 antenna lattice spacing is mere 12.5mm, which puts a severe constraint on the size and power dissipation of the electronic components that must fit on a flat panel antenna board designed with such lattice spacing. At Ku-band, this issue becomes even more exacerbated. Advancements in Si based beamforming and SOI switch technologies coupled with small form factor GaN power amplifiers and advanced packaging technologies are enabling high performance, flat-panel Phased Array Antenna designs at S, C, X and Ku bands. This talk will examine key IC technologies that are enabling advancements in Flat-panel Phased Array Antenna Systems for dual-use military and commercial applications, such as air surveillance, air traffic control, weather monitoring and imaging. Flat-panel antennas are space efficient and allow modular tile design approach, which reduces development time and cost by offering easy prototyping and scalability. However, they require high level of IC integration and innovation in packaging and thermal management solutions. This talk will provide an overview of these technologies.