Airborne Radomes

Product Specifications

We have served the composite structures and surfaces market for more than 50 years, designing and manufacturing high fidelity composite radomes and reflectors.

L3Harris has the capability to produce everything from simple panels to large integrated assemblies. We manufacture with E-Glass, S-Glass, Astroquartz®, Spectra™, Durashed®, T300, AS4 and IM7. In addition to fiber types, we are also experienced in polyesters, epoxies, cynate esters and a wide variety of thermoplastics. We are ready to qualify new product-specific systems as well.

We also specialize in rapid prototyping and can turn around tooling and dimensionally correct prototypes in just weeks rather than months for most applications.

Since 1961, L3Harris has led the industry in the research and development of new radome technology. Having pioneered research in the use of metal beams in radomes, radome tuning technology, development of hydrophobic coatings and the use of advanced composite materials, L3Harris has always been first to market with new radome enhancements and continues to pursue advancements in electromagnetic and structural performance.

A majority of our composite manufacturing has been in conjunction with the high fidelity, high-volume production of composite radomes and reflectors.

Composite reflectors are used in a multitude of applications, including airborne installations, to redirect or extend RF energy. L3Harris’ proprietary design and molding process enables us to produce tolerances smaller than 5 mils (0.005 in.) to optimize gain and reduce side lobes that can affect reflectivity. Our high-performance airborne reflectors use fine-weave or unidirectional carbon composite surfaces that can provide wide frequency range reflectivity up to 1,000 GHz.

Rapid Certification Program

Conducting tests and evaluating mechanical properties are crucial to the design and manufacture of any composite material. L3Harris has created a Rapid Certification Program in partnership with the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), the same agency trusted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to provide research, design, testing and certification. Our partner, Lightning Diversion Systems—which designs our lightning strike systems—is also working directly with NIAR to develop standards for lightning strike certification.

By utilizing NIAR’s certified simulation tools we are able to seamlessly transition ourprototyping and development to Finite Element Analysis (FEA). This enables us to fast-track the entire certification process and take modification or replacement parts (articles) from concept to FAA Parts Manufacture Approval (PMA) quickly and cost-effectively.

While Certification by Simulation is by far the fastest and the lowest-cost testing method, in the event that this method of certification is not acceptable, we also offer Certification by Simulation with Experimental Verification.

L3Harris is AS9100-certified. This aerospace industry-specific standard relating to ISO 9001 conformity provides a comprehensive quality management system focused on areas directly impacting product safety and reliability.

Certifications

ISO 9001:2015 and 9001:2016 Certificate

ISO 9001:2008 Certificate

Design for Manufacturing

L3Harris utilizes a “Design-for-Manufacturing” method.

From initial concept, we tap our extensive library of materials and efficient fabrication processes to help reduce both manufacturing and recurring costs. This enables us to turn around the design, development and manufacture of prototype parts for first article inspection and program acceptance in as little as six months.

Radome Products

Radome Turnkey Solutions

L3Harris offers an extensive list of radome site and installation services tailored to meet the requirements of prime contractors and government agencies worldwide.