The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Large RF Windows for High-Temperature Seekers" as part of their SBIR 24.1 BAA program. The objective of this effort is to advance the technical and manufacturing maturity of novel materials for large form-factored RF transparent windows that can be mounted in the nose section of a hypersonic vehicle. The technology is restricted under export control laws. The solicitation aims to address material science, mechanical design, manufacturability, and RF performance challenges in order to increase the technology readiness level (TRL) and manufacturing readiness level (MRL) of large high-temp RF windows.
The project will be conducted in two phases. Phase I is a Direct-to-Phase-II (D2P2) topic, meaning no Phase I awards will be made. Offerors are expected to have previously demonstrated competence in the design of high-temperature ceramics and/or ceramic matrix composites for RF windows. Phase II involves designing, characterizing, prototyping, and testing an advanced large-form-factor RF window for hypersonic strike applications. Emphasis will be placed on RF performance, manufacturability, reliability, and system safety. Six prototype large-form-factor RF windows will be delivered and tested.
Following successful completion of Phase II, the technology will be assessed for any remaining TRL or MRL gaps and readiness for integration with a DoD Prime contractor's hypersonic seeker system. This may lead to a Phase III contract or other mechanism for further development.
The solicitation provides references related to the topic and includes keywords such as high-temp materials, hypersonics, RF seekers, manufacturability, CMC, RF windows, and RF apertures. The application due date for this solicitation is February 21, 2024.