MQ-1/MQ-9 (Airborne SIGINT Development - Predator)

Abstract

(U) This project supports design studies, engineering analysis, non-recurring engineering, and other efforts associated with the integration and modification of the MQ-1/MQ-9 SIGINT sensors and their associated air and ground components. This is an RTD&E effort to integrate SIGINT capability on to the MQ-1/MQ-9 platforms. The sensors shall be capable of collecting technical data and geolocating signals of interest and providing sensor data to a workstation. The integration effort shall include the use of existing sensor suites to the maximum extent possible to minimize design costs and reduce development time lines. Design efforts specific to the Predator or Reaper systems may include, but not be limited to, antennas, EMI reduction, encryption techniques, and changes to the aircraft, ground station, data link, and simulator necessary to accommodate a SIGINT payload and its data throughput. Funding will begin efforts on antennas, receivers, processors, software development, aircraft integration and ground station upgrades to allow a persistent reconnaissance, surveillance, targeting, and acquisition capability against mission specific threats. Development of a networked capability to other SIGINT platforms will also be initiated. In accordance with an evolutionary acquisition strategy, a series of Airborne Signals Intellice Payload (ASIP) capability improvements will begin preliminary design activities to support software and hardware upgrades in FY11. These upgrades are designed to exploit signals of interest identified as service priorities by the Air Force SIGINT Capabilities Working Group (SCWG). This project provides the warfighter with near term increased combat capability. Enhancements are implemented as soon as technology and risk achieve satisfactory levels. Compatability improvements will be inserted into the ASIP Family of Sensors through individual development efforts that exploit signals of interest identified as Service priorities by the AF SCWG. Blue Moon development efforts will also begin in FY12. This program is in Budget Activity 7, Operational System Development because this budget activity includes development efforts to upgrade systems that have been fielded or have received approval for full rate production and anticipate production funding in the current or subsequent fiscal year.

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2012
• Source ID: 675182_0304260F_7_3600_PB_2012

Tags

Fields of Study

• Engineering

Readers

• Civilian Systems Systems Program Capability Development and Upgrade Support Activity Expense and Pay Management.
• Radar Systems Engineering.