Design of an X-band Vivaldi antenna with low radar cross section

In this study, a passive Vivaldi antenna design is proposed for radar cross section (RCS) reduction using object shaping method. The implementation of annular slot along with exponential curves in the radiator reduced the scattering along the surface of the radiator. This contributes reduction in structural mode RCS throughout the operational bandwidth without affecting the impedance performance of the antenna. Monostatic RCS of the antenna is discussed for two incident angles. A minimum RCS reduction of 13 dB is achieved when the incident angle is = 60 degrees and a maximum of 19 dB reduction is achieved at = 75 degrees. The proposed antenna offers symmetric radiation pattern in both azimuth and elevation planes and also maintains co-polarisation to cross-polarisation ratio of 19 dB throughout the X-band (8-12 GHz). Prototype antenna is fabricated and tested to validate the simulated results.