Affordable Wideband Scalable Front-End Electronics Supporting Multi-Function Seekers (PROP.SI2T.RADR.03)

SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2), an Antenna Research Associates (ARA) company, proposes to enhance and mature an wideband affordable, scalable front-end RF electronics solution for SWaP-constrained munitions platforms.  The proposed program will meet the need for an innovative wideband RF seeker Active Electronically Steered Arrays (AESAs) that can perform multiple functions.  Such functions include long range search and acquisition, tracking, Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI), and highly accurate terminal seeker functions. SI2 will leverage prior DoD-funded efforts and recent advances in beamforming integrated circuits (BFICs) and RF electronics.  Specifically, SI2’s industry partner will provide next generation, low-power-consumption BFICs and will work with SI2 to improve producibility and reduce production costs.  SI2 has previously demonstrated novel array aperture technology which is scalable in frequency and form factor while using conventional high-volume printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing technology.  Enhancing the manufacturability and reducing the cost of the required front end electronics coupled with this proven aperture technology enables an affordable multifunction AESA seeker system for multiple AF platforms. With an eye to transition of this technology, SI2 will validate its electronics solution via characterization testing with an industry partner.