Dual-Band Antenna Array With Superdirective Elements for Short-Distance Ballistic Tracking

Abstract

This paper describes an innovative architecture of dual-band planar array for short-range tracking radar applications. The proposed antenna consists of two integrated patch arrays and it works in the L-band and Ka-band. The structure is characterized by compact size and lightweight, thanks to the concept of sharing the same PCB and mechanical chassis for dual-band operation. One of the key aspects, besides the interoperability of the two patch arrays, is the use of dielectric rods that increase the realized gain while minimizing the required number of elements. As a consequence, the beamforming network is simplified, and the reliability of the module is significantly improved. The proposed dual-band array provides a gain higher than 28 dBi with low sidelobes and controlled narrow pencil beam, making it ideal for highly accurate radar tracking.