Conformal High-Efficiency Emitter Systems Enhancement (CHEESE)

ABSTRACT: FIRST RF proposes a two pronged, pragmatic approach intended to provide antenna solutions for both small and large UAS platforms operating in L/S/C & Ku bands. Larger aircraft, such as the global hawk, have relatively fast cruise speeds where extra drag incurred by external components must be kept an absolute minimum to maintain those speeds and maximize mission endurance. Smaller tactical aircraft also have drag constraints, but have additional challenges of extremely tight payload constraints and limited power. For these platforms, FIRST RF proposes extraordinarily low profile multi-band antennas capable of supporting multiple existing and emerging datalink needs. These antennas offer combined advantages of enabling multi-band communication, enhancing datalink range, and extending mission endurance through reduced drag. BENEFIT: Efficient multiband communications for small tactical airborne platforms will provide advantages by supporting seamless distribution of high quality ISR data directly to the warfighter even in environments with denied or nonexistent communication infrastructure. Low profile antenna solutions that support this mission are an enabling technology that enable extended time on station and improved link ranges. Commercial and dual-use applications are also present for disaster relief operations where communications infrastructure has been damaged and the ability to immediately establish high quality distribution of information can be invaluable.