Study of the Feasibility of Airborne HF Direction-Finding Antenna Systems

Abstract

High-frequency (2-24 mc) airborne direction-finding antennas are, in general, limited in accuracy, due to the undesired coupling between the antenna and the airframe which is electrically resonant in this frequency range. This paper describes the results of laboratory and flight test studies of antennas designed to eliminate such coupling and to achieve the necessary direction-finding accuracy. The radiation patterns of one particular antenna design-the wing H-Adcock-are discussed. It is concluded that hf airborne direction-finding is not feasible except in very restricted circumstances over narrow portions of the hf band.