Parameterized Design of a Supersonic Radome

Abstract

Future gun-launched projectiles will have higher muzzle velocities. There currently exists a need for RF transparent radome solutions with muzzle velocities near Mach numbers equal to 3 (M = 3). Future Combat System (FCS) requirements may push these velocities as high as M = 5. Assessments of aerothermal heating requirements for specific radome geometries need to be studied. Trade-off studies involving aerodynamic shape, antenna location, materials, and RF characteristics also need to be made. The final product of this report is twofold. The first is a short-term solution using the extruded/molded plastics to manufacture a radome. The other is a guideline for a more extensive study to find several solutions for high speed, RF transparent radomes for ballistic projectiles.