<p>Radomes are essential components of aerial-based radar systems since they are protective encasements for antennas that allow the flow of electromagnetic waves with minimal losses. This review study provides unified coverage of radome systems, materials selection, manufacturing, modeling and optimization processes, focusing on defense, aerospace, drone, energy, and other specific high-speed platform applications. Various wall configurations, including monolithic, sandwich, multilayer, and inhomogeneous structures, are discussed in terms of electromagnetic transparency, mechanical strength, and thermal and chemical stability. Potential materials, such as thermoset and thermoplastic fiber composites, honeycombs, and ceramic structures are described in terms of electromagnetic as well as structural characteristics. Furthermore, the state-of-the-art computational simulation methods (e.g., FEM, MoM, FDTD, and CFD) and coupled/multiphysics models are covered in terms of modeling the radome’s response under multi-mode loading scenarios. Additionally, the use of optimization methods, including evolutionary algorithms and AI-based models for performance trade-offs between electromagnetic performance and structural strength is highlighted. The aim of this work is to help researchers, scientists, engineers, and workers in the selection of the appropriate materials, designs, manufacturing, optimization and simulation models for the development of novel radome materials and systems.</p>