What is the typical shipboard RADAR antenna configuration?

The typical shipboard RADAR antenna configuration being a slotted waveguide array is a common choice due to its effective balancing of performance characteristics such as gain, beamwidth, and polarization. Slotted waveguide arrays are designed to operate at microwave frequencies, which is essential for radar applications, offering a good compromise between high sensitivity and the ability to produce a narrow, focused beam that is highly directional.

This configuration allows for a more compact and robust design, making it well-suited for the harsh marine environment. The slotted waveguide antenna can be engineered for both horizontal and vertical polarizations, depending on the requirements of the RADAR system. Additionally, it is less susceptible to the effects of rain and sea clutter, which can be critical in maritime operations.

In contrast, other configurations mentioned like rotary parabolic transducers, phased planar arrays, or dipoles may not provide the same level of performance or suitability for the challenging conditions encountered at sea. For instance, a rotary parabolic transducer is typically used for different types of applications and requires a larger physical footprint which may not be practical for all ships.