Multispectral Photonic Beacon for Indentification, Friend or Foe

This Phase I proposal work will develop needed components and knowledge for a light weight, low cost multispectral photonic beacon for identification of armed forces. The work will focus on the wavelengths of 1064nm and 852nm, with additional effort focused in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR). Photodigm is a semiconductor laser and systems manufacturer that has a current laser product line including both 1064nm and 852nm. Previous development of high peak power wavelength-stabilized sources at 1064nm for an identification, friend or foe (IFF) beacon prototype has shown that a single semiconductor laser is capable of producing powers that can be tracked and identified using current targeting pods at several kilometers. This SBIR funding would provide the capability to package and drive multiple lasers in series to extend both the range and the solid angle capability of the Photodigm’s next generation IFF prototype, as well as study the possibility of a much more compact, cost effective, and powerful alternative technology. Further, concepts for more robust and compact designs integrating 852nm, 1064nm, and MWIR sources will be carried out. An engineering study will be performed to evaluate the most battery efficient MWIR source and electronics configuration meeting the size and operational requirements. BENEFIT: A field worthy multispectral photonic beacon for Indentification, Friend or Foe (IFF) is critical in identification of ground forces to other ground forces and air support, thus mitigating incidence of friendly fire in the field. Beyond being used as IFF beacons, these units may also be uses as light weight, short range laser designators or markers for urban combat or use on unmanned aerial vehicles. An IFF unit that meets the program goals set forth could conceivably be standard issue for every ground soldier and vehicle. For commercial application, individual components of the beacon may be used for visual identification and tracking of airplanes and helicopters near airports and ships coming in and out of port.