Tailoring HFSWR Transmitting Antenna Array for Environment of the Equatorial Area: Gulf of Guinea Experiences

In this paper, a tailoring process for a High Frequency Surface Wave Radar (HFSWR) transmitter antenna array is presented. The process is done in order to achieve optimal HFSWR performance in equatorial environments, defined by a low altitude coastline, frequent storms, and heavy rainfall which lead to frequent site flooding. Simultaneously, the price of the final design needed to be as low as possible in order to make it affordable for developing countries, since the majority of countries in the equatorial area fits in that category. Initially, the tailoring process was started with mathematical formulations, continued in EM simulation software, and then tested in the field. Based on the findings obtained during the tailoring process, the transmitting antenna arrays are installed and the HFSWRs are operationally used afterward. Final confirmation of the tailoring process presented in this paper came through everyday usage of the installed HFSWRs during a period that lasted several years in the Equatorial environment, namely the Gulf of Guinea.