N132-089 TITLE: Simultaneous multi-beam high-bandwidth conformal tactical data link antenna systems

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Air Platform

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMA 266

RESTRICTION ON PERFORMANCE BY FOREIGN CITIZENS (i.e., those holding non-U.S. Passports): This topic is "ITAR Restricted". The information and materials provided pursuant to or resulting from this topic are restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120 - 130, which control the export of defense-related material and services, including the export of sensitive technical data. Foreign Citizens may perform work under an award resulting from this topic only if they hold the "Permanent Resident Card", or are designated as "Protected Individuals" as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). If a proposal for this topic contains participation by a foreign citizen who is not in one of the above two categories, the proposal will be rejected.

OBJECTIVE: Design and develop a conformal phased-array antenna with the capability to provide simultaneous multi-beam high-bandwidth tactical data links.

DESCRIPTION: Real-time situational awareness information and voice communications are being exchanged across battle space using high bandwidth data links. These encrypted, jam-resistant communication systems use multilink antenna systems to simultaneously share vast amounts of data among many military assets through line-of-sight (LOS) air-to-air communication, and air-to-ground communication. The critical data exchanged includes fixed formatted messages, radar tracks, target information, platform status, imagery, text messaging and command assignments. Despite the many capabilities of the data link, there is still a need for improvement to antenna systems currently implemented into airborne platforms.

Airborne data link antenna systems experience difficulty maintaining a stable pattern and LOS during the maneuvering of aircraft, which can interrupt the data link. This decreases mission effectiveness and can be detrimental to the user; as target and threat information sharing, while operating under rapidly changing operational conditions, is no longer being provided. This effort will focus on the development of a high-gain and high-efficiency, small-aperture, conformal phased-array antenna with Right Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP) capable of providing simultaneous multiple beams operable in the Ku band. The new system should retain all the capabilities of a current data link antenna system, while also maintaining multiple LOS data links. Computational Electromagnetic (CEM) simulation tools should be used to demonstrate proof of concept. Also, utilize simulation tools for the design and deployment of the multiple-beam phased-array antenna close to the surface of the aircraft.

PHASE I: Design a high-gain, high-efficiency, small-aperture airborne data link phased-array antenna able to transmit and receive multiple high-gain beams. The design should include both the aperture and beam-forming/manifold architecture.

PHASE II: Optimize the parameters of the array established in Phase I. Fabricate a prototype conformal phased-array antenna and demonstrate its performance.

PHASE III: Illustrate the performance of the new antenna system implemented into data link systems on military airborne platforms. Consideration should also be given for adaptation to sea platforms, moving ground platforms, and ground-based terminals.

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL/DUAL-USE APPLICATIONS: The technology is directly applicable to both commercial communication/data link systems and radar systems. The technology developed under this effort will have potential commercial applications, such as in-flight entertainment (IFE) on commercial aircraft, and commercial airborne and ground communication terminals that require simultaneous contact with multiple satellites.

REFERENCES:
1. Brukiewa, T., Cho, C., Jenabi, M. & C. Quintero (2003). Development and Test of an X/Ku Band Tile Technology Multi-Link Antenna System for CDL Communications. Proceedings of the 2003 IEEE International Symposium on Phased Array Systems Technology, Boston, MA, pp. 417–422.

2. Geezer, B. (2006). Multi-Beam Digital Antenna for Radar, Communications, and UAV Tracking Based on Communications, and UAV Tracking Based on Off-the-Shelf Wireless Technologies. M.S. thesis, Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA.

3. Abrams, J., Rhodes, J., Smith, B. & Kinnan, T. (2000) TADIL J: Introduction to Tactical Digital Information Link J and Quick Reference Guide. [online] http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/policy/army/fm/6-24-8/tadilj.pdf

4. Boudriau, E. (1995)., Multiple-Beam Antennas for Military Satellite Communications Systems. Defence Research Establishment Ottawa, Tech. Note 95-1.

5. Schippers, H., Verpoorte, J., Jorna, P., Hulzinga, A., Meijerink, A., Roeloffzen, C., Heideman, R., Leinse, A. & Wintels, M. (2008) Conformal Phased Array with Beam Forming for Airborne Satellite Communication. International TIG Workshop on Smart Antennas, WSA, pp. 343-350.

6. Josefsson, L.& Persson, P. (2006) Conformal Array Antenna Theory and Design, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken.

7. Lacomme, P. (2003). New Trends in Airborne Phased Array Radars. IEEE International Symposium on Phased Array Systems and Technology, pp. 17-22.

KEYWORDS: Sensing; Phased Array; Communication; Data Link; Multi Beam; Conformal

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