F-22 Imaging Radar System Technology Evaluation

The F-22 requires an improved capability and more reliable method of verifying aircraft repairs. To address obsolescence issues with an outdated and limited repair verification tool, this effort will evaluate, mature and demonstrate an improved imaging capability. A fundamental handheld imaging radar technology has been developed and is capable of verifying if an aircraft has been properly repaired or restored to meet performance specifications. Specifically, it provides a nondestructive zonal imaging capability for Radar Frequency (RF) diagnostic and assessment of specialty coating materials performance. The handheld imaging technology was originally designed to address F-35 coating maintenance shortfalls, but the technology can be extended to other advanced weapon systems. This new imaging capability will replace an outdated and limited baseline repair verification tool for the F-22. Transitioning this capability is a critical SPO requirement for sustaining the aircraft and ensuring aircraft availability. This effort focuses on the development and demonstration of an improved imaging capability to meet F-22 requirements for verification of aircraft repairs. The proposed effort will evaluate, further develop, mature and adapt an improved imaging capability by advancing the Technology and Manufacturing Readiness Level (TRL/MRL) of the fundamental handheld imaging technology to meet F-22 requirements.