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When I first saw this, I wondered how it could possibly be cheaper or better than just creating a metal rod of the same size.

But the ability to 'dismantle' the antenna for stealth makes sense, as well as the ability to change the size of it on command.



Antennas --especially big ones-- have a large radar cross section, i.e., very visible on the radar. So a stealthy ship wants to avoid them. At the same time, long distance communication requires very large wavelengths and therefore large antennas. Temporary antennas are a good solution.

EDIT: this is of course in the article. Note to self: RTFM


Let's not forget that it could be redeployed in the event that a water fight breaks out




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