An antenna for the transmission and reception of electromagnetic radiation is provided. The antenna includes a body portion, which can be flexible to permit incorporation of the antenna into a material. The antenna also includes an aggregate of extended length nanotubes along the body portion, and a plurality of contact points between adjacent nanotubes to permit transmission of electromagnetic radiation, while reducing resistivity along the antenna at a high frequency, for example, above 100 MHz. A method of manufacturing an antenna is also provided.