Integration of monolithic microwave integrated circuits into phased array antenna systems

Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) technology will have a dramatic impact upon future radar, electronic warfare, and communication systems which utilize phased arrays. Systems in both the commercial and defense industries which require large quantities of densely packed circuitry will become the prime benefactors of MMIC technology. The microwave and antenna engineers responsible for the integration of MMICs into these new systems must develop compatible radiating elements, feed networks, and module configurations as well as techniques for satisfying electrical, mechanical, and thermal interfaces in the array. This paper discusses techniques that have been developed for interfacing MMIC modules to phased array systems. Radiating elements suitable for integration with monolithic circuitry including some novel implementations of classic radiators are presented. Examples of monolithic circuits as well as mounting and packaging methods for complete transmit/receive modules are given.