Algorithm-Driven Placement Optimization of Aircraft-Mounted VHF Antennas for Mutual Coupling Reduction

Abstract

This study investigates algorithm-driven placement optimization of two aircraft-mounted VHF monopole antennas to mitigate mutual coupling under realistic installation constraints. A parameterized 3D aircraft model inspired by general-aviation platforms is analyzed using full-wave electromagnetic simulations over the 30-100 MHz band. The optimization problem is formulated to reduce inter-antenna coupling across the operating band while restricting the search space to physically installable regions on the airframe. Two global optimization methods, Genetic Algorithm and Particle Swarm Optimization, are applied and compared under the identical constraints and objective definitions. The results show that both optimizers achieve a significant reduction in coupling relative to non-optimized placements, with comparable overall performance. Installed far-field radiation characteristics are further evaluated to verify that the optimized solutions preserve, and in some cases improve, the omnidirectional coverage required for airborne VHF communication. The proposed workflow provides a practical, simulation-driven framework for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)-oriented antenna integration on complex aircraft platforms.