Small Affordable Anti-Jam GPS Antenna (SAAGA)

The purpose of this GPS Antenna study is to investigate an innovative replacement for a Controlled Radiation Pattern Antenna (CRPA) which is cost effective and light weight, in a size similar to the existing Fixed Radiatio Pattern Antenna (FRPA). Physically large CRPA antenna systems prohibit universal installation to restrictive platforms such as helicopters and smaller fixed wing aircraft. The CRPA antenna can be effective against hostile jammers but is very costly to purchase and maintain, marking it impractical for the Army to equip large numbers of small aircraft, helicopters and ground vehicles. sensor Systems believes it is possible to provide anti-jam capability in a FRPA sized antenna. Other antenna designs presently being implemented by Sensor Systems for satellite communications employ adaptive beam steering, internal active and passive signal conditioning. Antenna beam steering and signal processing technologies may be used to improve the GPS signals which are contaminated by hostile jamming. Under combat conditions, broad-band and narrow-band jammers may be used to contaminate GPS signals, denying GPS operations in battle zones. With established technology, a small, anti-jam, signal processing antenna can be developed to provide US Army battlefield commanders continuous use of GPS systems.