Novel Computing for Streaming Radio Frequency in Low Size, Weight and Power Environments
STTR Opportunity Analysis
The U.S. Navy is seeking STTR proposals for a novel, compact RF sensor computational engine for low size, weight, and power environments. The work calls for an onboard processing device and supporting infrastructure that can ingest streaming intermediate-frequency RF data, continuously process more than 2 GHz of instantaneous bandwidth, and produce detection and higher-level data products with remote, local, recording, playback, and network configuration capabilities. The solution must meet extreme SWaP limits, including a processing engine under 1.5 pounds and under 100 watts, with a single-chip and infrastructure package under 1 pound and about 3 mm on a side, while also supporting data-at-rest encryption, zeroization, non-volatility, and shipboard environmental qualification; Phase II work is expected to become classified and requires a U.S.-owned, U.S.-operated contractor able to obtain and maintain secret-level clearances. Phase I calls for a detailed schedule and technical plan, while Phase II adds development, security, and testing with lab demonstrations and at-sea integration. Proposals are due June 3, 2026.