Communications Module - Millimeter-wave (COMMO-MMW)
Abstract
The Communications Module - Millimeter-wave (COMMO-MMW) program will develop a compact, scalable, millimeter wave (mm-wave) active electronically scanned array (AESA) module to enable high-performance communications links. The module will focus on low cost connectivity of weapons platforms and systems. The cost will be reduced through exploitation of mass manufacturing techniques at the chip scale and a reduction in size of the system which will aid in retrofitting into existing platforms. The COMMO-MMW module will operate in the high frequency portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to take advantage of reduced competition for bandwidth compared to the increasingly congested bands at lower frequencies. By leveraging mass manufacturing processes to reduce module cost, and new advances in compound semiconductors to enhance system performance, the COMMO-MMW program will realize affordable mm-wave communications that can be made ubiquitous across the domains of modern warfare. Additionally, mm-wave operation offers the potential for extremely high data rate communications links that are intrinsically jam resistant and low probability of detection due to narrow beamwidths and atmospheric propagation characteristics at these frequencies. The lack of commercial component technology in the mm-wave band will further increase the military advantage gained by this capability. This program will develop the critical compound semiconductor devices and circuits for high performance, high power efficiency mm-wave front end electronics, and will apply 3-D and/or heterogeneous integration approaches to build a compact, scalable, mm-wave AESA module. COMMO-MMW not only will revolutionize Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capability but also make it possible and affordable to retrofit existing military systems and extend high performance communications link capability to smaller platforms. Technologies developed under this program will transition to the Services and will provide the capability of "fiber-like" connectivity rates in infrastructure free environments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2017
- Source ID
- f7ff026f240d9545a5fe23e2ef3e6dc1