Ultra Wideband Conformal Antennas for Multifunctional Consolidated Submarine Mast (1000-152) Navy SBIR FY2010.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.1 Topic No.: N101-069 Topic Title: Ultra Wideband Conformal Antennas for Multifunctional Consolidated Submarine Mast (1000-152) Proposal No.: N101-069-0418 Firm: SI2 Technologies 267 Boston Road North Billerica, Massachusetts 01862 Contact: Patanjali Parimi Phone: (978) 495-5300 Web Site: www.si2technologies.com Abstract: SI2 Technologies, Inc. (SI2) proposes an innovative solution to the Navy's need for ultra wideband antennas to support submarine communications, electronic warfare (EW), and radar functions. SI2 will develop two efficient, conformal, broadband, low-cost antenna systems for SATCOM upper hemispherical and omni-directional coverage . These antennas will initially be designed for integration with the Universal Modular Mast of Virginia class submarines, but could also be applied to other submarine platforms in the fleet. During Phase I, the wideband antenna concepts will be refined using high fidelity numerical modeling and simulation tools. The performance of the antenna systems will be simulated and validated through the manufacture and testing of a coupon level hardware demonstrator. The conformal antennas will be fabricated using Direct Write Technology. A full scale prototype will be fabricated in the follow-on Phase II program. The prototype will be tested on a representative Universal Modular Mast structure to demonstrate the antenna RF performance. Benefits: The limited volume available in the submarine sail limits the size and number of masts, and therefore the capabilities of the RF communication, radar, and EW systems. Development of ultra wideband, low profile conformal antennas that allow for multiple functions in a single aperture enables efficient communication link in a small foot print. In addition, the proposed antenna systems, with no moving parts, provide enhanced reliability as compared to existing mechanically steered antennas. Potential commercial applications include ship and aircraft communications, navigation, and radar applications. Return