RF Integration: Integrated Solutions for Wireless and Wideband Communications
Defense Applications
Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems support the Warfighter’s reliance on real time Situational Awareness. Reducing Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) enables high speed Networks such as WIN-T to link with Unattended Ground Sensors and UAVs. Low power Wireless Sensor Networks and Precision Guidance are vital to Force Protection. Power Consumption, Cost and RF Integration are key for the next generation of Radio, Survival, Navigation and Battlefield Surveillance systems.
The trend towards high speed wireless or wired connectivity in a range of networks and applications requires highly integrated RFICs and mm MMICs as well as System in Package (SiP) solutions. RF Integration’s System Turn Key RFIC and MMIC solutions lead the way. (Hyperlink to RFICs, MMICs and SiPs)
Tactical Radio Systems
Tactical Radio Systems now serve as nodes and hubs in mobile ad hoc networks. These networks connect ground, naval, airborne and satellite assets into an interactive mesh of battlefield information and decision-making. Operating in several frequency ranges up to 2.7GHz with enhanced data throughputs, these multi-mode radios significantly upgrade data capabilities and serve as the critical components in the “network-centric” battlespace. Highly integrated Silicon RFICs drive down Size, Weight and Power, while increasing operating bandwidths. Advanced systems require MMICs in compound semiconductor technologies such as Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) and Gallium Nitride. (GaN).
High Speed Networks
High Speed Networks extend the range of communications enabling simultaneous distributed operations with more capable forces. Small aperture SATCOM antennas can be vehicle mounted and integrated with modems and communications equipment. Low cost onthe-move network enabled communications with reduced Size, Weight and Power support the WIN-T Soldier Network Extension. RFICs and MMICs are crucial to this new generation of networks of mobile ad hoc networks.
Evolution of the Wireleless Net-centric battlefield
Today’s military communications systems support an ever increasing range of RF Frequencies, Bandwidths and Data Rates. See chart
GPS
GPS has seen significant upgrades in recent years. In addition to the traditional 1575.42MHz L1 band used in many commercial systems, and the “military” L2 band at 1227.60MHz, a new L5 band will be available at 1176.45MHz. In addition, SAASM architectures provide a secure bridge from legacy GPS systems to advanced systems with greater flexibility, functionality,and security. Military Code (M-code) signals provide robust encryption which is spectrally separated from the existing GPS signals to facilitate compatibility with Navigation Warfare (Navwar) operations and minimize the impact on civilian GPS applications. The advanced security architecture applied to M-code also makes it less vulnerable to jamming. However, to utilize M-code and its capabilities, existing legacy and SAASM receivers will have to be upgraded with new wideband GNSS capabilities (see diagram).
Wireless Sensor Networks
Wireless Sensor Networks with low power low data rate Radios and energy harvesting support Biometrics, Tagging, Tracking and Location. RF Tags and Networked Sensors conduct non-cooperative detection and identification. Tracking and location of individuals and vehicles is enabled in complex and chaotic urban terrain from stand-off distances. Low power highly integrated SoCs are required.
Ground Penetrating Radar
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technology increases the speed of detection of surface-laid and buried antitank and anti personnel landmines. Using ultra wide band signals and increased transmitter power, the probability of detection is enhanced and false alarm rates are reduced. Detection of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) as well as Landmines is a key component of Force Protection in active conflicts. GPR applications demand Ultra Wideband high power RFICs and MMICs.