Glide Away Precision Sonobuoy Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.2 Topic No.: N102-117 Topic Title: Glide Away Precision Sonobuoy Proposal No.: N102-117-0065 Firm: Two Lights Technologies, LLC 2208 S. Culpeper St. Arlington, Virginia 22206-1027 Contact: Kevin Blenkhorn Phone: (703) 798-8175 Abstract: The P-8 Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft will soon be replacing the P-3 Orion. The P-8 flies at a much higher altitude than the P-3, and needs a new sonobuoy guidance system to allow sonobuoys to be placed accurately without the aircraft having to descend. This multi-phase SBIR project will develop the "Glide Away Precision Sonobuoy" (GAPS), a high-aspect-ratio parachute and navigation system that will fly a sonobuoy from 25,000 feet to a target area 25 nm away, with sub-50-yard accuracy. GAPS will be compatible with existing sonobuoy deployment systems and will require minimal changes to existing sonobuoys. When manufactured in quantity, GAPS will cost less than $1000 per sonobuoy. By enabling allow aircraft to deliver sonobuoys accurately from altitude, GAPS yields significant fuel savings, hence the Navy will realize a quick Return On Investment. Phase I will design the key elements of GAPS, followed by component construction and testing in the Option. Phase II will develop and test a complete prototype program. We will develop a full-scale version of GAPS and integrate it with a sonobuoy to for field-testing under realistic conditions. Phase III will include testing on Navy aircraft and the commencement of production and sales. Benefits: GAPS will increase the accuracy of high-altitude sonobuoy launches. It will allow maritime aircraft to emplace sonobuoy fields from 25,000 feet with an accuracy of 50 yards. GAPS will work with existing sonobuoy and aircraft deployment systems. This same technology has logistics resupply and scientific research applications. GAPS can be modified to allow precision delivery of cargo from high-altitude aircraft. This will allow the Army and SOCOM to deliver food, ammunition and supplies to small units in remote areas. It will enable Coast Guard C-130s to deliver life rafts and other survival equipment without having to reduce altitude and increase their fuel burn. It will allow precision delivery of scientific test equipment from high altitude as well. This will enable NOAA and Navy Oceanographers to emplace oceanographic sensing equipment for the prediction of underwater acoustic ranges, to continue their research into storm prediction, and other related research. Once the Phase II prototype is underway, we will demonstrate it for these communities to gauge their interest level and determine what modifications will be required for their special needs. Return