A system and method for enhanced use of voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) tests of an avionic radio and antenna is disclosed. A signal processor/generator conducts a VSWR test of an antenna and archives the result within a database. Multiple tests are conducted spanning periods of operation of the radio. Tests may also be conducted at multiple frequencies, such as commonly used channels of communication. Results are uploaded to an external diagnostic device and analyzed to evaluate deterioration of the antenna. Analysis may including comparing test results to threshold values and analyzing test results for frequency and time dependent trends.