Antennas and Antenna Radomes with Extreme Thermal Shock Resistance for Missile Applications

This Phase I project will explore development of an Oxide-Oxide ceramic matrix composite (CMC) material with a unique and innovative fiber architecture suitable to fabricate full scale ogive radomes/nosecones. These radomes are relevant for providing high precision guidance and navigation to high speed missiles and vehicles. Phase I effort will include fabrication of flat CMC material coupons utilizing ceramic fiber and a proprietary matrix material that yield outstanding RF transmission properties and thermo-mechanical performance. The work plan includes mechanical and related testing and characterization with the objective to downselect the most suitable fiber architecture based on mechanical performance and net shape fabrication of radomes. A subscale radome prototype will be fabricated under the Phase I Option effort. This work will be done in collaboration with an OEM involved in large scale manufacture of advanced missile systems.