Antenna Enhancements for SOF Applications

U.S. Special Operating Forces (SOF) require tactical VHF/UHF antennas with improved performance for Special Reconnaissance (SR) missions. The development of an Enhanced Antenna Suite (EAS) tailored to SOF needs that can be configured depending on the nature of each mission is essential for meeting mission needs. Such a suite is aimed to provide enhanced mission effectiveness through improved LPI/LPD, visual covertness and overall link performance, while being portable, lightweight and easy to use in difficult SR field environments. In the Phase I effort, four different types of antennas that meet these criteria were designed, developed, prototyped and demonstrated. In the Phase II effort, it is proposed to continue the development of three of these antennas. The focus will be on refining their electrical designs, materials and fabrication methods. At the completion of Phase II, a demonstration of the antennas will be conducted and deliverable units of each antenna type will be provided, so that these can be used to obtain user evaluation and feedback.