Smart Antenna for UUV RF Communications

In this Phase II SBIR project, we plan to develop novel, conformal, highly efficient wideband JTRS compliant antenna platforms for Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUVs). We will leverage our Phase I design efforts to create the radiators that will enable reliable link connections without external amplification. Our proposed effort comprises three stages of work. In the Basic Effort, we will design, develop and fabricate a proof of concept antenna that can achieve 85 % link connection reliabilities for a variety of JTRS waveforms, including DAMA SatCom, MUOS, and WNW. In Option 1, we will design and deliver a waterproof prototype of the wideband JTRS UUV antenna. This radiator will be able to withstand the environmental conditions experienced on the surface of the sea, and its performance will be demonstrated in-water deployed on a UUV. Finally, in Option 2, we will design and deliver a pre-production prototype retractable JTRS UUV antenna that can reside within the hull of the UUV when the UUV is submerged. To obtain optimum performance for our wideband JTRS compliant UUV antennas, we will employ advanced electromagnetic, RF, mechanical and structural engineering practices and also verify our designs using appropriate numerical techniques and test procedures.