Omni-Directional Capability for Shared Reconnaissance Pod (SHARP) Data Link

The current Shared Reconnaissance Pod (SHARP) provides the capability to pass data to vessels at sea, but does not possess the capability to pass real time tactical imagery and data directly to air and ground operators. Passing real time data directly to ground operators increases the ground commander’s battle space awareness and command and control of forces. It also facilitates close air support (CAS) to enable friendly forces to accomplish the tactical mission with minimal US casualties. Directional antennas have been the focus of data links in the recent past. This provided Commanders at the operational level good situational awareness of the battlefield, which enabled their planners to design branches and sequels to current plans. Advances in technology can now enable the ground tactical commander to have this same situational awareness and use it to execute a ground operation. An Omni Antenna can provide this capability to the existing SHARP with minimal changes in the pod. The omni antenna will enable data exchange to continue and will improve data transmission to the greatest number of weapon platforms, both in the air and on the ground. This antenna will also enable the greatest field of view for real time sensor to shooter data transfer.