Waveform Agile Radio-frequency Directed Energy (WARDEN)

Abstract

The Waveform Agile Radio-frequency Directed Energy (WARDEN) program, building upon technologies developed in the DREaM program (budgeted within this PE and Project) aims to extend the range and lethality of high power microwave (HPM) systems by introducing flexible waveform techniques that use combinations of frequency-, amplitude-, and pulse-width modulations to significantly improve electromagnetic coupling into complex target enclosures and increase the probability of disruption or damage to internal electronic components and circuits. Applications for HPM systems include counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), vehicle and vessel disruption, electronic strike, and guided missile defense. Current HPM systems use oscillators to produce electromagnetic radiation. These systems are inherently narrowband and lack the frequency agility to support waveforms to maximize electromagnetic coupling and to optimally exploit electronic system vulnerabilities. Lacking the capability to use optimized waveforms, HPM oscillators have been pushed close to the physical limits of peak power generation. To develop a more efficient, lower power, waveform agile approach, the WARDEN program will develop and demonstrate the first broadband HPM amplifier; create new theory and simulation tools to predict electromagnetic coupling into complex enclosures and the effects on electronics; and develop novel agile waveform techniques capable of reducing the susceptibility threshold of targeted electronics systems to HPM attack.

Document Details

Document Type
Accomplishment
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2022
Source ID
ba5d570cce64bdcd57aff10121011581

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Pulsed Power and Plasma Physics.
  • Radar Systems Engineering.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Autonomy
  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics

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