Currently the E-2C is covered with antennas for VHF/UHF line of sight, UHF satellite communications, L-band and GPS functions. There is a need to condense some of these functions into a single aperture to free up real estate on the aircraft for future additions and cut down on interference between the antennas. Combining these functions into a single multi-function antenna with a weight less than 10 lbs is the design goal. Combining these functions into a single antenna unit will also ultimately reduce costs and simplify installation on the aircraft. Similar benefits would be obtained in civilian applications with the same communications requirements.
Benefits: The primary application of the developed MFA will be for the E-2C Hawkeye aircraft. It is anticipated that successful demonstration on this platform will be used to expand the application into other, predominantly DoD, applications. Alaska Native Technologies, LLC is an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), a Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) and an 8(a) Certified Company. This status makes us eligible for special Federal acquisition preferences due to Native American status. The 8(a) contracting method eliminates the program manager's long complex procurement cycle and provides a timely, straightforward and efficient contracting process. Adding the ANC ownership to an 8(a) firm removes all contract dollar limits on government contract sole sourcing. Since 8(a) companies can subcontract portions of the contract and/or lease employees, an optimal team will be assembled for the manufacture and installation of the MFA in all DoD applications. In addition, ANT qualifies for the Department of Defense (DoD) Indian Incentive Program. This program pays contractors a five percent rebate on subcontracting work given to a tribally owned entity. This status will be very helpful in marketing the MFA to military acquisition programs
