W15QKN23C0025

Small Technology Transfer Research Program (STTR) Phase II

P22-083 A21C-T002 Phase II STTR (Smith)

Gun-hardened, Hypersonic-capable RF Components for Smart Munitions

Recent advancements in artillery, muzzle velocity, and post-launch propulsion technology have enabled precision guided munitions (PGMs) to travel faster and at longer ranges than ever before. To be most effective in flight and at range, the munitions must incorporate RF sensors to enable advanced, mission-critical functionality. The RF sensors must also be able to survive and operate through extreme gun-launch and hypersonic aerothermal environments. To survive the thermal requirements, the sensors must reside underneath a wideband RF transparent window. The integration of both the window and antenna must be accomplished in such a way to be compatible to the projectile size, weight, and power constraints. FIRST RF has, over the years, developed numerous key antenna technologies capable of sustained operation in the artillery-launched and hypersonic regimes. This technology will be leveraged in this effort. Additionally, as with all PGMs, space is very limited. As more and more frequencies (bandwidth) are desired, the complexity and volume required increases. FIRST RF has developed both conformal antennas and miniaturized wideband antennas that may be used for gun-launched munition applications. It is proposed that these antennas be combined with high shock window materials and construction methods to create a highly versatile solution for the warfighter. This overall approach significantly lowers the required volume allocation, complexity, cost and weight of the sensor system. Recent advancements in artillery, muzzle velocity, and post-launch propulsion technology have enabled precision guided munitions (PGMs) to travel faster and at longer ranges than ever before. To be most effective in flight and at range, the munitions must incorporate RF sensors to enable advanced, mission-critical functionality. The RF sensors must also be able to survive and operate through extreme gun-launch and hypersonic aerothermal environments. To survive the thermal requirements, the sensors must reside underneath a wideband RF transparent window. The integration of both the window and antenna must be accomplished in such a way to be compatible to the projectile size, weight, and power constraints. FIRST RF has, over the years, developed numerous key antenna technologies capable of sustained operation in the artillery-launched and hypersonic regimes. This technology will be leveraged in this effort. Additionally, as with all PGMs, space is very limited. As more and more frequencies (bandwidth) are desired, the complexity and volume required increases. FIRST RF has developed both conformal antennas and miniaturized wideband antennas that may be used for gun-launched munition applications. It is proposed that these antennas be combined with high shock window materials and construction methods to create a highly versatile solution for the warfighter. This overall approach significantly lowers the required volume allocation, complexity, cost and weight of the sensor system.

The goal of phase II is to continue the R&D efforts initiated in Phase I. Funding is based on the results achieved in Phase I and the scientific and technical merit and commercial potential of the project proposed in Phase II. STTRs are completed in conjunction with a research institution.

The Ohio State University

A21C-T002

A2-9493

21.C

Jeanne Hill-Jurik