Electrically Small Antennas at High Frequency
ID: N241-005Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Electrically Small Antennas at High Frequency

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Nov 29, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Jan 3, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Electrically Small Antennas at High Frequency" as part of their SBIR 24.1 BAA solicitation. The Navy branch is specifically interested in this topic. The objective is to design, develop, simulate, and demonstrate an electrically small antenna using metamaterials that can operate at frequencies from 2-30 MHz. The antenna will be used for Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) communications on Navy aircraft, transmitting and receiving Skywave radio-wave signals. The challenge is to determine if metamaterials can significantly reduce the size and weight of an HF antenna while maintaining performance. The desired antenna design goals include reduced weight and volume compared to conventional antennas, no worse VSWR over the frequency range, and a 3 dB improvement in gain. The Phase I of the project involves investigating suitable metamaterials, creating a digital model, and demonstrating the feasibility of the design. Phase II focuses on developing a prototype antenna, testing its performance, and working with NAVAIR for initial qualification testing. Phase III involves further development of the prototype and installation on a rotorcraft, demonstrating its military application. The technology has potential dual-use applications in law enforcement, safety, and corporate transport where SATCOM is not viable or too expensive. The project duration and funding specifics are not provided in the document. For more information, refer to the solicitation link on SBIR.gov.

Files
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