Design and Manufacture of a Conformal, Low RCS, X-Band SATCOM Antenna System (1000-038) Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2005.1 Topic No.: N05-034 Topic Title: Design and Manufacture of a Conformal, Low RCS, X-Band SATCOM Antenna System (1000-038) Proposal No.: N051-034-0112 Firm: SI2 Technologies 200 Turnpike Road Chelmsford, Massachusetts 01824 Contact: Douglas Colvin Phone: (978) 606-2601 Abstract: SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) proposes to develop a conformal low radar-cross-section (RCS) X-Band SATCOM antenna system that will enable high speed satellite communications between tactical aircraft, such as the F/A-18E/F, and new satellite systems such as XTAR. SI2's innovative antenna is conformal, exhibits low RCS and still overcomes the difficulties posed by the operating environment. The Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed concept through extensive design, modeling, and simulation. During the Phase I Option, an antenna cell will be fabricated using SI2's state-of-the-art conformal electronics manufacturing techniques. The antenna will be tested to validate the design and demonstrate the benefits of the proposed approach. In Phase II, SI2's conformal low RCS X-Band SATCOM array will be manufactured, integrated within a representative structure and measured for performance. Benefits: Conformal antennas will provide a number of benefits in both military and commercial marketplaces. For example, conformal antennas can reduce the radar cross-section and drag of many vehicles and result in increased range, payload, fuel efficiency, and loiter time. The technology is applicable to a number of platforms, such as JSF, EA-6, P-3, and V-22, and a wide variety of antenna systems, including communication and phased array antennas. Application of the technology may be extended to a number of markets, such as the marine, automotive, and consumer electronics industries. Return