Receive-Only Radio Equipment

The goal of this proposed multiphase SBIR program is to enhance the Marine Corps tactical receive capability by providing a small, light weight, low power and low cost device with built in step, scan, and search capabilities to aquire and process all standard military communications signals ranging in frequency from HF to UHF. An integrated capability, such as the one proposed, provides significant advantages over existing tactical radios. Application of advancecd communications techniques, new electronis technology and state-of-the-art mechanical design can yeild a small light-weight device which is more easily integrated into the battlefield and provides better performance. The low lost of the approach permits wide distribution which greatly enhances troop coordination and the dissemination of tactical information. The ability to search and scan over a wide frequency band provides the capability to easily monitor friendly and enemy communications and future capabilities could include decryption and dehopping of ECCM signals as well as LPI transmit for local two-way communication. ViaSat proposes to modify an existing hand-held radio to provide the required capabilities. Phase I will define requirements, select a candidate radio to provide high level designs for a demonstration. Phase II will produce a proof-of-concept demonstration closely matching the form, fit, and function of a Full Scale Development in Phase III.