Double-Passive Battlefield IFF System

This proposed program will demonstrate the feasibility of a battleground IFF system in which neither the interrogator nor the responder need to transmit distinguishable electromagnetic signals which can act as beacons to enemy anti-radiation weapons. The system can operate in a fully double-passive mode using reflectors with special coding functions that permit rapid identification of friendly forces. An optional mode can be implemented where only the interrogator must transmit signals which can be highly covert due to the nature of the system. The system uses a unique source of electromagnetic energy for its carrier that is available anywhere in the world. The proposed work in Phase I will validate the concept by detailed theoretical analysis and laboratory demonstration of a breadboard model of the basic system. Both L-band and millimeter-wave circuits will be involved and the program effort will include defining the requirements and basic concepts for suitable monolithic microwave IC's.