SE-IT joint M-AESA program: Overview and status

The Multi-function Phased Array (M-AESA) program is a joint SE-IT initiative for the development of a capability driven multifunction phased array system concept. This paper presents the progress the M-AESA research and development program has made over the last 3 years and it follows the paper “New concepts for MRFS evolutionary trends. The M-AESA program: A joint IT-SE capability driven approach” by V. Carulli et al. presented at the Radar Conference 2008 in Rome [1]. The program, based on a number of different national initiatives, benefits from different cultural approaches and perspectives, and aims to lead an initiative in Europe for such a new family of RF systems. An overview and status of this unique R&D partnership will be discussed with a mission of evaluating new technology and system architecture for developing the next generation phased array antenna system capable of exploiting the most relevant operational functions (Radar, EW and Comm) according to the operational scenarios. However, a number of technical, operational and cost issues are still remaining to be addressed before M-AESA can become a reality.