The radar antennas have to be mounted at a 45 degree angle, hence the odd shape. We didn't build the radar but from what the people who did have told us, because it is a synthetic aperature radar and not a traditional radar having material in front shouldn't be a problem unless it has low electrical resistivity (e.g. carbon fiber). We have about a 6 foot wing span as is due to the weight and low speed. I don't know a whole lot about retractable landing gear on models. How much weight would be added? What all do they require in terms of hardware, extra servos, etc.?