Digital Multichannel AESA for EW and Directed COM Multifunctionality

Purpose and goal:

Advanced sensors are important parts of Saab´s product portfolio. The goal of this project has been to increase knowledge about a type of electromagnetic sensor, wideband digital antenna arrays, partly technologically but also to create awareness of the advantages of digital arrays.

The purpose of the project was to speed up the introduction of digital arrays in Saab´s commercial products. The project also supported KTH´s world-leading research in the field and deepened cooperation between KTH and Saab. Expected results and effects:

Overall, the project has contributed with several parts that are important for the introduction of wideband digital arrays. Applications that benefit from wideband digital arrays are, e.g., multifunctional RF systems, such as the application studied in the nearby NFFP project 2023-01949 "Directed COM & EW Using Digital multi-channel AESAs".

A scientific publication has been written and two master´s theses have been completed within the project. Approach and implementation:

During the project, basic architecture for digital arrays has been studied. Related technology areas that are required for inclusion in products have also been in focus, for example advanced radome design where the radome can be given specific properties that are beneficial for the array´s function. Important parts of the system have been modeled and the model has been used to analyze various characteristics and how they affect the performance of a wideband digital array.