Camouflage Tactical Multiband Direction Finding Antenna Array

The proposed Phase II SBIR program aims to design, develop, and deliver a set of mission-specific direction finding (DF) prototype antennas that are suitable for signal reception across the frequency range from 30 MHz to 3000 MHz and investigate further technological possibilities to extend the band of operation both lower and higher. This program follows the Phase I SBIR program that QUASAR Federal Systems (QFS) executed to investigate the potential suitability of various DF antenna technologies. At the completion of the Phase I program, several recommendations were made regarding various antenna technologies that have the potential to be used as part of the QFS DF technology. For the present Phase II program, the following proposal presents the most promising approach to satisfying the stated requirements within the Phase II budget, in terms of both time and cost. The development of prototype DF antennas under the present program will considerably extend QFS’s well established DF technology to frequency bands far beyond our present capability. BENEFITS: There is a definite need within the Signals Intelligence community for a direction finding antenna array that is light weight, man portable, air droppable, and does not make apparent to trained observers its function or what tasks are performing in its vicinity. QUASAR Federal Systems expects the result of this project to fill this need, which exists across the Department of Defense. Thus we expect interest from customers in all branches of the military.