The defense industry relies on durable, dependable RF [radio frequency] systems for mission-critical military avionics applications, such as electronic warfare (EW), to enable continuous real-time data transmission with high accuracy. These systems must be extremely reliable and offer consistently high performance for many years in demanding, confined, and variable environments within the airframe. This creates unique requirements for the custom RF interconnect solutions that support them.

WALLINGFORD, Ct. Times Microwave Systems announced the release of its new XtendedFlex 178 continuous flex coaxial cable, aimed at applications that need materials that can handle constant motion and flexibility,

WALLINGFORD, Ct. Times Microwave Systems has introduced its new InstaBend 141 (IB-141) high-performance microwave assembly that is aimed at both inside-the-box and between-box connections in such applications as space flight, thermal vacuum, microwave test, and many other commercial and military applications.

Radio frequency (RF) system manufacturers are creating advanced new system designs to accommodate extremely restricted space constraints and rising operating frequencies in military avionics applications.

In today’s unusually challenging environment, companies may need to look for workarounds to stay on track regarding supply chain and delivery. Some electronics companies are learning the hard way that supply-chain resilience is a critical qualification for doing business, whether in their own or in their business partners' and suppliers' operations. These lessons will change the way organizations consider procurement and production decisions for the future.

Military radio frequency (RF) systems must be designed to withstand the rigors of the often-harsh environments in which they will be used, while at the same time achieving extremely high performance for mission-critical applications. Low-smoke, zero-halogen, and phase-stable cable assemblies for these RF systems fulfill these high-reliability needs.

By David Kiesling

Radio frequency (RF) technology for avionics applications, both military and commercial, prioritizes weight reduction to increase fuel efficiency while also meeting stringent electrical and mechanical requirements for safety. Low loss, phase stability, and high performance in a shock-and-vibration environment require a balancing act to reduce size with careful evaluation of materials, constructions, and maintenance.