A directive, instantaneous wide bandwidth antenna is disclosed. The antenna can include a ground plane having a recess with a tapered region accessible by an electromagnetic field via a radiating aperture at a forward end of the recess. The antenna can also include an elongate dielectric feed disposed in the recess. The dielectric feed can have a tapered portion proximate the tapered region to guide the electromagnetic field into the recess through the radiating aperture and influence pattern directivity. The antenna can further include a conductive plating disposed at least partially about the dielectric feed in a wedge configuration to influence pattern beam width. The conductive plating can have a taper to facilitate propagation of the electromagnetic field over a range of frequencies. The conductive plating can be disposed toward a rearward end of the recess relative to the radiating aperture.