JTIDS AIRBORNE ADAPTIVE ARRAY ANTENNA
Ernest W. Coleman, W. HERBERT HEFFNER · Naval Engineers Journal · 1980
ABSTRACT The Navy is developing an airborne adaptive array antenna for the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS). JTIDS is a Tri‐Service multi‐channel, multi‐function system to provide an advanced communication, navigation, and identification (CNI) capability for a wide variety of uses. JTIDS terminals perform multiple digital voice/data functions and relative navigation as well as the standard TACAN and IFF transponder functions. The system uses a low‐duty cycle, spread‐spectrum waveform and advanced coding techniques to provide secure, jam‐resistant, and low probability of exploitation CNI functions. Among the important factors which determine the ultimate utility of a JTIDS terminal is the performance of the antenna system. Inadequate antenna performance could seriously degrade and possibly even negate the primary platform mission. Recent advances in antenna and data processing techndogiea promise to provide JTIDS with adequate gain and pattern coverage as well as substantial AJ (Anti‐Jam) margin to complement JTIDS signal processing. The desired improvement in AJ protection can be achieved by capitalizing on the spatial filtering properties of adaptive array antennas. This paper presents the “trade‐offs” which must be addressed in the design of an adaptive array antenna for airborne JTIDS terminals and the design philosophy currently in development by the Navy.