SBIR / STTR #A23-003

Phase I SBIR Research for Electromagnetic Skins for Smart Radomes

Army Futures Command (AFC) is seeking Phase I SBIR research to develop electromagnetic skins for smart radomes used on Army airborne platforms or smart munitions. - Buyer: Army Futures Command (AFC); no subordinate office is identified. - Requested work: Research and development of electrically thin electromagnetic (EM) skins that add radio-frequency functionality to smart radomes. - Target thickness: approximately 5 mm or less; operating range: 2–18 GHz. - Manage desirable and undesirable RF radiation while preserving mechanical, thermal, aerodynamic, and environmental performance. - Phase I work and deliverables: Simulate RF component interactions in planar and conformal configurations; assess integration effects; simulate full-system radome performance; build a proof-of-concept single-unit-cell prototype and measure its S-parameter and radiation performance; submit a final report. - Target maturity and funding: Target outcome is Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2–3. Funding is up to $111,500. - OEMs and vendors: No manufacturers, OEMs, or vendors are named.

Description

This Phase I Army SBIR/STTR topic seeks electrically thin electromagnetic skins with radio-frequency functionality to create smart radome surfaces for airborne platforms or smart munitions. The work focuses on designing skins, about 5 mm thick or less, that manage desirable and undesirable RF radiation while evaluating mechanical, thermal, and environmental integration. Phase I activities include simulations, integration assessment, and a proof-of-concept single-unit-cell prototype with measured performance, targeting TRL 2–3. The topic lists funding of up to $111,500 and a duration of up to six months.

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