Conformal RF Interfaces for Gun-fired Munitions

Electronics technology is continually progressing towards smaller size and gun-launched compatibility, paving the way for more advanced, inexpensive, and long-range electronic warfare capability on munition systems. To enable this capability, the electronics must be paired with an equally miniaturized and shock hardened antenna. Additionally, the antenna must maintain operational performance throughout flight over a wideband while providing omni-directional pattern coverage. FIRST RF has developed compatible antenna technology. Prototypes of the antennas have been fabricated and validated to similar shock stressing conditions and wide band electronic warfare environments. This technology will be leveraged in this effort. Additionally, as with all small weapons, space is very limited. As more and more frequencies (bandwidth) are desired, the complexity and volume required increases. FIRST RF has developed both narrowband conformal antennas and miniaturized wideband antennas that may be used for gun-launched projectile applications. Both options provide the required omni-directional coverage for various electronic warfare scenarios. It is proposed that these antennas be combined with high shock materials and construction methods to create a highly versatile solution for the warfighter. This overall approach significantly lowers the required volume allocation, complexity, cost and weight of the sensor system.