The application of the new nonlinear optimization algorithms to arrays design is demonstrated by the low-side-lobe pattern synthesis of conformal arrays. By adopting the information of array element realized gain patterns (RGP’s), we formulate synthesis problems as nonlinearly constrained optimization problems, and propose a new direct method to solve them. The technique allows one to find a new direct method to solve them. The technique allows one to find a set of array coefficients that yield a pattern meeting a specified side-lobe level and achieving the maximum directivity, if such a set of array coefficients exists. If the side-lobe specifications cannot be met with the given array, the technique will result in a set of coefficients that yield a pattern meeting the best attainable side-lobe level and having directivity as high as possible. Also, simplified synthesis problems for an axial dipole array in an infinite, perfectly conducting cylinder are discussed, and numerical synthesis results are given. Our synthesis technique works for general array patterns.