Abstract: A conforming dismount antenna for use in a communication system includes a signal converter, a modulation component, a flexible fiber optic cable, and a flexible radiating element. The flexible fiber optic cable connects the conforming dismount antenna to a radio transceiver. The conforming dismount antenna bends to the contours of the user wearing the conforming dismount antenna or conforming to the contours of camouflage netting resting on a vehicle. When transmitting or receiving a broadcast, the conforming dismount antenna converts the radio frequency signal into a digital optical signal within the conforming dismount antenna. Communication systems including the conforming dismount antenna and methods of using the conforming dismount antenna are also described.

Abstract: A phased-array antenna system includes: an array of discrete antenna modules disposed conformally with an exterior surface of a platform; a digital distribution system comprising a digital communications medium to convey digital signals to and/or from respective input/output ports of the antenna modules; and a controller system to supply and/or receive the digital signals to/from the antenna modules via the digital distribution system. The controller system controls relative phases of the digital signals to enable the antenna elements to form a directive antenna beam pattern. Each antenna module includes: an antenna element to emit and/or absorb RF signals; an input/output port to send and/or receive digital signals; an electronics unit including an A/D and/or D/A converter to provide an interface between the antenna element and the input/output port; and a housing in which the antenna element and electronics unit are packaged.

Abstract: A phased-array antenna system includes: an array of discrete antenna modules disposed conformally with an exterior surface of a platform; a digital distribution system comprising a digital communications medium to convey digital signals to and/or from respective input/output ports of the antenna modules; and a controller system to supply and/or receive the digital signals to/from the antenna modules via the digital distribution system. The controller system controls relative phases of the digital signals to enable the antenna elements to form a directive antenna beam pattern. Each antenna module includes: an antenna element to emit and/or absorb RF signals; an input/output port to send and/or receive digital signals; an electronics unit including an A/D and/or D/A converter to provide an interface between the antenna element and the input/output port; and a housing in which the antenna element and electronics unit are packaged.