# SBIR / STTR #A23-003

Phase I SBIR Research for Electromagnetic Skins for Smart Radomes

**Buyer:** AFC
**Posted:** May 17, 2023
**Respond By:** June 14, 2023
**Identifier:** A23-003
**NAICS:** 541715, 334511, 334220

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.

[View original listing](https://armysbir.army.mil/topics/uas-continuous-time-spectrum-situational-awareness/)