BOULDER, Colo. – Ball Aerospace will deliver multi-beam phased array antenna systems as part of a contract win by BAE Systems for the U.S. Navy Network Tactical Common Data Link (NTCDL) System.
The NTCDL system enables multiple simultaneous, high-bandwidth communications links, which greatly enhance current mission capability and ship protection, allowing for a future sensor network across the Navy. Ball is building the Ku-band phased array antenna suite for BAE Systems.
“We have worked closely with the Office of Naval Research to develop and mature the technology for these cost-effective phased array antennas which will play a critical role in the NTCDL System,” said Rob Freedman, vice president and general manager, Tactical Solutions, Ball Aerospace. “This is an example of how Ball’s commitment to investment in technology development and collaboration with our customer is providing warfighters with a tactical advantage.”
These multi-beam planar phased array antennas are based on silicon germanium (SiGe) technologies on a single circuit board, which results in a low-profile antenna. The designs leverage technologies and manufacturing techniques developed by Ball for the commercial market. Ball’s internal research and development (IRAD) investments, along with those of the Office of Naval Research (ONR), have enabled this phased array antenna capability to be available to the military market. The antennas will initially be installed on naval aircraft carriers. The system will communicate with a range of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms.
This contract represents the first phase of the program which will result in low rate initial production for the hardware with corresponding engineering support. Development and production will be performed at Ball’s manufacturing facility in Westminster, Colorado.
Ball Aerospace pioneers discoveries that enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most. We create innovative space solutions, enable more accurate weather forecasts, drive insightful observations of our planet, deliver actionable data and intelligence, and ensure those who defend our freedom go forward bravely and return home safely. For more information, visit www.ball.com/aerospace or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.
Ball Corporation (NYSE: BLL) supplies innovative, sustainable packaging solutions for beverage, food and household products customers, as well as aerospace and other technologies and services primarily for the U.S. government. Ball Corporation and its subsidiaries employ 18,300 people worldwide and reported 2017 net sales of $11 billion. For more information, visit www.ball.com, or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.
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