Fiber Optic Tethered Antennas for High Speed Communication with UUVs Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2008.2 Topic No.: N08-194 Topic Title: Fiber Optic Tethered Antennas for High Speed Communication with UUVs Proposal No.: N082-194-0183 Firm: Physical Sciences Inc. 20 New England Business Center Andover, Massachusetts 01810-1077 Contact: Kushal Talukdar Phone: (978) 689-0003 Web Site: http://www.psicorp.com Abstract: Underwater acoustic communications for UUV control and information retrieval is power intensive and can not operate at high data rates comparable to RF communications. In order to improve communication with submerged UUVs, Physical Sciences Inc., is proposing to develop a tethered antenna buoy. The buoy will house the RF antennas, can be deployed and retrieved as necessary and allow high rate bi-directional data communication up to 30 meters. The design of the system features an innovative dual antenna design and the use of optical fibers for communication between the buoy and the UUVs. Benefits: The proposed system can be effectively utilized in guarding maritime assets and deterring underwater intruders in a timely manner. In addition commercial use of the system includes underwater oceanographic surveys, inspection of pipelines in shallow waters, survey for dredging etc. Return