Low Cost, Adaptive Chaotic LPD and Cognitive PLI Radio

Army SBIR topic A214-004 (Topic) contains 4 major challenges: (i) low-cost radio with (ii) low probability of detection (LPD), (iii) position location information (PLI) determination without external GPS, and (iv) support mobile ad-hoc networking (MANET) with low latency. First, the Army’s target for low cost (LC) is in the $2000 to $5000 range per system. We will provide solution with option for below the $2000 cost that can operate in the wideband 70MHz to 6GHz spectrum in the VHF to C-band required by the Topic. Second, the Army requires LPD waveforms that can operate in crowded, adversary challenged spectrum with low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) but must be featureless and non-cyclic – overcoming detection using artificial intelligence by adversaries. We propose to develop novel LPD waveform with adaptive chaotic direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) that is truly unpredictable and adapting to the spectrum environment. Third, determining PLI usually requires GPS or GPS in combination with dead-reckoning using inertial measurement unit (IMU). However, these methods add extra cost to the system by a few hundred to a few thousand dollars to achieve accuracy. It also increases the size, weight and power consumption. We propose a different method for determining PLI using phased array with cognitive capability for accurately locating position using the hardware available in the system. Fourth, we will integrate proactive MANET routing capabilities for supporting >128 nodes in the network beyond the 32 to 128 nodes required by the Topic. Proactive methods offer the lowest latency in networking. Phase 1 and 2 will make available products using commercial off the shelf (COTS) submodules. Using submodules allows the solution to be very flexible enabling us to offer solutions from low-end to high-end with different capabilities to meet different application requirements – more suitable for commercialization purposes.  Phase 3 will make available product weight less than the 7.5 ounce mini-can of Coke and be smaller than the size of a 3.5” deck of playing card. This solution meets or exceeds the target metrics listed in the Topic description