Antenna/Radar Positioning System for Enhanced Military Communication

Abstract

Reliable communication is a fundamental requirement in modern military operations, particularly in dynamic and unpredictable battlefeld environments where mobility, obstruction, and environmental interference severely degrade signal quality. Conventional static antenna systems are often unable to maintain optimal alignment under such conditions, leading to reduced signal strength, unstable connectivity, and limited operational effectiveness. To address these challenges, this project presents the design and implementation of an Adaptive Antenna Positioning System based on Infrared (IR) sensing for enhanced communication reliability. The proposed system employs a two-axis motorized antenna mount capable of automatic azimuth and elevation control. Instead of relying on RF signal strength estimation, the system utilizes Infrared (IR) transmitter–receiver modules to determine directional alignment with the signal source. The IR-based sensing mechanism continuously detects the intensity and directionality of incoming infrared signals, enabling the system to identify the optimal orientation for maximum alignment accuracy. A microcontroller-based control unit processes real-time IR sensor data and dynamically adjusts the antenna position using high-precision stepper motors, ensuring smooth and accurate tracking performance. To evaluate system performance under controlled dynamic conditions, a custom-built moving IR signal source mechanism is developed to simulate mobility scenarios. The hardware architecture integrates IR sensing modules, an Arduino-based control system, motor driver circuits, and a wireless monitoring interface for real-time observation and testing. This integrated design allows effective validation of tracking behavior in both static and dynamic environments. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed IR-based system achieves improved directional accuracy, stable alignment, and reduced signal deviation compared to conventional fxed antenna setups. The system shows reliable tracking capability under simulated movement conditions, confirming its suitability for controlled short-range adaptive communication applications. Overall, the project contributes to the development of intelligent antenna positioning systems by integrating IR sensing technology with embedded control and electromechanical actuation. The resulting framework offers a cost-effective, lightweight, and scalable solution that can serve as a foundation for further advancements in adaptive communication and tracking systems.