Reentry Test Body Telemetry Antenna

The DON26BZ01-NV039 RFP seeks to develop a reentry body antenna system for Navy Submarine Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) test bodies. The objective is to design, develop, and test an antenna capable of transmitting high-speed, real-time, encrypted data in K and Ka bands, utilizing geostationary satellites as a pass-through to ground stations. This technology aims to overcome limitations of current S-band systems, which suffer from slow data transfer and loss during portions of flight, particularly “over the top” and during plasma blackout. The new system will enable continuous, high-speed data transmission throughout flight, crucial for evaluating reentry body performance and accelerating technology maturation. Phase I involves detailed planning and design specifications, while Phase II focuses on prototype development and testing, with an expectation of classified work. Phase III targets a fully matured and qualified antenna system for Trident II D5LE environments, with potential commercial applications in space communications. The project has strict ITAR and U.S. ownership requirements.