The present invention involves an inflatable antenna system including an inflatable antenna and a mounting plate. The inflatable antenna includes an inflatable cone or cylinder and a plurality of conductors integrated therein. The mounting plate can be incorporated into a protective enclosure that holds and protects the inflatable antenna during transport, supports it during use, and provides a means for mounting it to a mast. The mounting plate serves as a mounting surface for the inflatable antenna, a radio frequency (RF) connector, an air intake valve, and an impedance matching network. Selected surfaces of the protective enclosure can be coated with conductive materials. An air intake valve allows for inflation and deflation of the inflatable antenna. Inflatable support members can be used in conjunction with a stabilizing portion comprised of a vertical member and attached weight, to allow the inflatable antenna system to be deployed in water.