Aviation Applied Technology Directorate, U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command, Attn: AMSAM-AR-TC, Building 401, Lee Blvd, Room 117, Fort Eustis, VA 23604-5577

A -- REQUEST FOR INFORMATION -- ANTENNAS AND TRANSCEIVERS DUE 042800 POC Vid Buggs, Sr., Electronics Engineer, (757) 878-3003 E-MAIL: AATD, vbuggs@aatd.eustis.army.mil. The U.S. Army Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (AATD) is in the process of developing research and development projects involving technologies supporting manned/unmanned teaming operations between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and manned rotorcraft. AATD is seeking information that would enable its manned/unmanned program to assess the state-of-the-art in UAV compatible antenna and transceiver technology (individual components and/or transceiver/antenna systems) for its suitability to meet Army helicopter and manned system requirements. To be suitable for Army helicopters, the products must have size and weight characteristics typical for rotorcraft platforms, must be aerodynamically and mechanically compatible with rotorcraft, and must be able to operate off poorly regulated aircraft power sources (115 volts/400 Hz). The information requested is to be used in an effort to determine if and to what extent the Army needs to direct resources toward fulfilling its requirements through research and development efforts. AATD is interested in commercial and military antenna and/or transceiver products that are suitable for, or readily adaptable to, rotorcraft applications and prototype components/systems that offer the potential to fulfill the requirements but may require further development. Specifically, we are interested in directional and omni directional antennas, transceivers, and associated hardware that operate in the current UAV family of data link ranges which include L, S, C, X, and Ku frequency bands (1-18 GHz); that have automatic band selection capabilities, are able to transmit and receive digital video and telemetry data, and are compatible with the Tactical Common Data Link (TCDL) specifications. The information sought includes electrical and mechanical characteristics, specifications, and cost of antennas and/or transceivers (components and/or systems), to include absolute and relative gain characteristics (radiated pattern plots), polarization, horizontal and vertical beam width, VSWR, impedance, and other mechanical and environmental information needed to assess suitability for operating in the Army helicopter flight environment (size, weight, power, altitude, temperature, vibration limits, etc.). Also, it is desired that any technical areas that need further development in order to meet helicopter requirements and/or TCDL Specifications be identified. This request is for purposes of exchanging information to improve understanding of the Government requirement and industry capability and for information and planning. This announcement should not be construed as a commitment by the Government. Any information submitted by industry will not constitute an offer which could be accepted by the Government to create a binding contract. Written responses are requested by 28 Apr 2000; however, earlier dialog is encouraged. Address responses to the Aviation Applied Technology Directorate, Attn: AMSAM-RD-AA-I (Vid Buggs, Sr.), Bldg. 401, Lee Blvd, Fort Eustis, VA 23604-5577. Mr. Buggs may be reached by telephone at (757) 878-3003 or by e-mail at vbuggs@aatd.eustis.army.mil. Posted 03/16/00 (W-SN435253). (0076)

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