Integration of antenna elements onto semiconductor substrates for use in phased arrays

This paper discusses the ongoing research being conducted in the RF Technology Division of the Applied Sensors, Guidance, and Electronics Directorate, US Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center (AMRDEC) on the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. The overall purpose of the research is to determine and overcome the technological barriers impinging upon enhancements to current phased array technology which is expected to include MEMS in addition to chip-level integration of multiple phased array components. An overview of phased array systems and components is presented along with applications and insertion into potential military systems and the benefits thereof. The paper discusses the current research effort and future research areas for this project and its benefits in creating an air defense system to support the Future Combat System (FCS) of the US Army.