Adaptive array for elimination of multipath interference at HF

A four element adaptive array using a modulated pilot signal added to the communication signal at the transmitter has been constructed and tested at high frequency (HF). The pilot signal modulation was designed to discriminate against undesired HF multipath. The array reduces the strength of undesired modes by spatial nulling, while maintaining response in the direction of the desired mode. The array was used to receive signals that propagated via a 150-mi over-ocean path. The antenna configuration and frequency selection were such that the ground wave and ionospheric modes of propagation were approximately equal. The pilot signal, used as a reference for the adaptive array, consisted of a single tone, phased reversed by a pseudorandom sequence. The bandwidth of the pilot signal was selectable at either 3 kHz or 6 kHz. A pulse sounder was used to measure the response of the array system to the arriving modes. During the test the ground wave and modes were observed, occasionally simultaneously. The array reference signal could be locked to any arriving mode and the array processor was able to discriminate against all other modes by directing spatial nulls. The reduction in strength of the undesired modes measured during the test was greater than 15 dB.