Multi-octave FET voltage controlled oscillators for EW applications

The advent of more sophisticated electronic warfare and countermeasure systems with a variety of complex roles has resulted in an increased requirement for high performance ultra broadband voltage controlled oscillators (VCO). Most military systems operate within the 6 to 18 GHz frequency range using up to three separate VCOs, to cover the full band. Such an arrangement is somewhat cumbersome as it involves switching coupling and linearising the outputs of three VCOs thus increasing the size, weight and cost of any system. For this reason Plessey Three-Five Group Limited have developed a multi-octave FET VCO design in the common module format (measuring 6×12 mm) with the ultimate aim of covering the full 6 to 18 GHz band