Abstract: A the system for scanning an antenna array (26) adapted for use with active radar arrays. A first mechanism (14, 18, 20, 24) generates an optical signal oscillating at a predetermined frequency. A second mechanism (32, 34) employs the optical signal to derive feed signals, which have predetermined phase relationships. A third mechanism (22) receives the feed signals and radiates corresponding transmit signals in response thereto to the antenna array (26) to steer the antenna array (26) in accordance with the predetermined phase relationships. In a specific embodiment, the transmit signals are microwave frequency signals. The first mechanism (14, 18, 20, 24) includes a first optical oscillator (18) and a second optical oscillator (20) that feed a first optical manifold (32) and a second optical manifold (34), respectively, of the second mechanism (32, 34).