SMART SKIN FOR AEW AIRCRAFT

Paper in proceeding, 2022

A multifunctional fuselage structure has been developed. It provides the structural integrity necessary for smaller aircraft and permits the transmission of high-power microwave radiation characteristics for long-range surveillance radars. In particular, the solution permits a straightforward integration and allows for a curvature that improves buckling performance. A 700 mm × 700 mm fuselage demonstrator was manufactured to verify its performance via measurements. The demonstrator exhibits good antenna performance (good RF coupling and good radiation beam shape) as well as good stiffness and load-carrying capability. It also performed well in vibration tests showing low dynamic response which is useful in dynamic environments.