RF & Microwave Electronics - May 2025
Shape‐shifting antennas poised to transform communications…cutting‐edge drone killer radio wave weapon…researchers use ancient Japanese method to create tunable antennas. Read about these and other innovations in this compendium of articles from the editors of Tech Briefs and Aerospace & Defense Technology magazines.
Don't have an account?
Overview
The RF & Microwave Electronics Special Report for May 2025 presents a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements in radio frequency and microwave technologies, with a particular focus on their applications in defense and communications. The report features several key articles and application briefs that highlight innovative solutions and emerging technologies in the field.
One of the standout features of the report is an exploration of the critical role of coaxial cables in phased array radar systems. The article titled "Beyond the Beam: The Impact of Coaxial Cables on Phased Array Technology" discusses how the increasing complexity and performance demands of modern communications systems necessitate highly stable phase components. It emphasizes the importance of coaxial cable innovation in ensuring seamless integration among the transmitter, receiver, and antenna elements, which is vital for the success of phased array systems.
Another significant topic covered is the development of a cutting-edge Radio Frequency Directed Energy Weapon (RFDEW) by Team Hersa, a collaboration between the Defense Equipment & Support (DE&S) and the Defense Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL). This weapon system is designed to detect, track, and engage various threats across land, air, and sea by using radio waves to disrupt or damage the electronic components of enemy platforms, such as drones. The RFDEW represents a promising solution for the protection of critical assets and military bases, showcasing the potential of directed energy technologies in modern warfare.
The report also addresses the challenges associated with testing antennas at millimeter-wave (mmWave) and sub-terahertz frequencies. The article "mmWave and sub-THz Antenna Testing Challenges and Solutions" outlines the bottlenecks faced in antenna testing setups and offers insights into overcoming these obstacles to ensure accurate performance evaluation of advanced antenna designs.
In addition to these technical discussions, the report highlights innovative antenna designs, including a feature on "Shape-Shifting Antenna Poised to Transform Communications." This article discusses the development of flexible, lightweight, and durable antennas that are crucial for applications in movable robotics and aerospace components, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize communication systems.
The report also includes an application brief detailing the British Army's successful first test of the drone-killing RF weapon, further illustrating the practical implications of these technologies in defense scenarios. Additionally, the report touches on the concept of drone jamming and strategies for countering such threats, providing a well-rounded view of the current landscape in RF and microwave technologies.
Overall, the RF & Microwave Electronics Special Report for May 2025 serves as a valuable resource for professionals in the field, offering insights into cutting-edge technologies, testing challenges, and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of communications and defense systems. The report underscores the importance of continued research and development in RF and microwave electronics to meet the evolving demands of modern technology and warfare.
