HPM systems based on NLTL technologies

Non linear transmission line (NLTL) technologies have been proposed over a number of years as a means of achieving various high power pulse shaping functions. BAE SYSTEMS has been involved in the development of a particular form of NLTL technology capable of producing high power pulsed RE waveforms with frequencies between 100´s of MHz and l-2 GHz and with powers of the order of 25 MW and above. Benefits due to the use of NLTLs are the all-solid-state nature of the RE modulator system and the accurate pulse to pulse frequency and timing control which may be achieved. In this paper the fundamentals of the technology are explored and the potential for a system to array a number of NLTL elements and produce extremely high peak powers and radiated fields is discussed. Novel antenna systems are also described, exploiting high impedance surface technologies and suitable for the peak RE powers as well as being extremely compact.