Penetrator Communication Link

This proposal describes an effort to develop an ultra-small telemetry transmitter, which operates in the L and S telemetry frequency bands, and which is suitable for use in testing the next generation of penetrator munitons. The telemetry transmitter is mounted on-board the munition under test and therefore must withstand g-shocks of up to 100 kG. In order not to interfere with the performance of high speed, small penetrator munitons, the transmitter must be accommodated in a rugged package considerably under 0.5 cubic inches in volume. To achieve these stringent requirements in an ultra-small package, Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) technology will be utilized. With the benefit of MMIC technology, the entire RF transmitter can be integrated onto a single chip of minute dimensions, which then may be mounted onto the backside of a small microstrip patch antenna. This arrangement results in a simple, two-sided printed-circuit board containing the radiating element on one side and the telemetry transmitter circuitry on the other in a volume considerably under 0.5 cubic inches. Additionally, this high level of integration allows for dramatic reductions in DC power consumption and manufacturing costs, while simultaneously allowing for significant increases in g-hardening capability. The expected outcome is an ultra-small, MMIC-based telemetry transmitter design tailored for current and envisioned penetration munition testing requirements.