Optimal compromise in the channels of monopulse antennas: Use of subarrays and distributions with common aperture tail

Given a linear antenna array with an excitation distribution affording an optimal sum pattern, subarray weighting allows the same array also to generate a difference pattern, with minimal alteration of the signal feed circuitry. Previous implementations of this approach have considered the whole array for subarraying. Here we report that the required feeding networks can be further simplified by keeping the elements at the edges of the array with common excitations for both sum and difference patterns.