Saltenna TACFI

Saltenna’s proposed TACFI solution builds on its Phase II advancements in Plasmonic wireless mesh communication technology, which hasalready demonstrated reliable, high-bandwidth connectivity in signal-compromised environments such as underground facilities, densejungles, and hardened installations. This TACFI effort extends these capabilities to support the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment(ACE), Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS), and Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) objectives. Specifically, itseeks to scale and enhance Saltenna’s technology for seamless communication between Airmen and Tactical Operations Centers (TOC) incontested and austere environments such as dense jungles, flightlines, rubble, and littoral/riverine environments.The innovation development effort will adapt Plasmonic devices for Air Force-specific operational needs, integrating with existingcommunication systems and radios, and conducting trials in diverse and representative environments. Specifically, Saltenna will developdeployable attritable prototype Plasmonic mesh communication pucks that enable communications between TOC and edge TAK servers inRF-difficult environments. Acceptance criteria will focus on achieving robust connectivity in degraded environments, interoperability withcurrent Air Force systems, and measurable improvements in response times and situational awareness. Trials will be conducted incollaboration with units such as the 88th Air Base Wing (ABW) at Wright-Patterson AFB, leveraging their expertise, access to the TAKCenter of Excellence, Combat Readiness Training Centers and access to critical mission scenarios and exercises.