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Description
SOCOM212-002
TITLE: Small Form Factor UHF SATCOM Antenna
RT&L FOCUS AREA(S): Microelectronics, Network Command, Control and Communications
TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Information Systems, Materials, Space Platforms
OBJECTIVE:
This topic aims to develop applied research toward an innovative capability to develop a small form factor antenna that enables Ultra High Frequency (UHF) satellite communications for small handheld devices.
ITAR:
The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual-use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.
DESCRIPTION:
As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications on the key system attributes. The key system attributes for the antenna are that it must be tuned for transmitting and receiving a frequency range of 225 to 400 megahertz (Mhz). It also must be right-hand circularly polarized (RHCP). The antenna must accept the output power of a handheld transmitter of up to 37-decibel milliwatts (dbm) (5 Watts). SubMiniature version A (SMA) type connectors are preferred for connecting the antenna to a handheld transceiver. A flexible patch-type antenna is desired; however, the smallest size possible antenna is most desirable.
PHASE I:
Conduct a feasibility study to assess what is in the art of the possible that satisfies the requirements specified in the above paragraphs entitled "Objective" and "Description." The objective of this USSOCOM Phase I SBIR effort is to conduct and document the results of a thorough feasibility study ("Technology Readiness Level 3") to investigate what is in the art of the possible within the given trade space that will satisfy a needed technology. The feasibility study
should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters specified in this write-up. It should also address the risks and potential payoffs of the innovative technology options investigated and recommend the option that best achieves the objective of this technology pursuit. The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts are to be used for the sole purpose of conducting a thorough feasibility study using scientific experiments and laboratory studies as necessary. Operational prototypes will not be developed with USSOCOM SBIR funds during Phase I feasibility studies. Operational prototypes developed with other than SBIR funds provided at the end of Phase I feasibility studies will not be considered in deciding what firm(s) will be selected for Phase II.
PHASE II:
Develop, install, and demonstrate a prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study on a small form factor UHF SATCOM antenna.
PHASE III DUAL-USE APPLICATIONS:
This system could be used in a broad range of military applications where the need for a small form factor UHF antenna is required to operate a communication or data exfiltration system.
REFERENCES:
1) Special Operations Tactical Communications, Defense Media Network, 27 May 2020, Andrew White;
https://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/special-operations-tacticalcommunications/
KEYWORDS:
antenna; UHF; small; tactical
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