Current transformers for partial discharge detection on aircraft cables and wires

A systems and methods are provided for detecting defects in aircraft wiring, and more particularly, for detecting partial discharges or arcing in wiring or cables. A high frequency current transformer (HFCT) is fixingly positioned in contact with a wire so that the wire is encircled by the HFCT. Partial discharges from a damaged wire so encircled will induce a current in the HFCT proportional to the current of the discharge. The HFCT comprises at least one conductive coil-like pattern formed onto a flexible insulating material, said insulating material having slits between each coil-turn of the coil-like pattern; and a core of flexible material fitted between the coil-turns through said slits.