RF-over-fiber for Military Applications

PPM has long satisfied military requirements for RF-over-fiber links with its standard Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) or with custom designed systems for specific applications.

The use of optical fibre for the transmission of RF signals has many particular benefits in a military environment:

• Thin, lightweight cable for rapid deployment
• Zero leakage of RF signal for stealth operation
• Compact, lightweight terminal modules for incorporation into manpacks etc.
• Wide bandwidth, wide dynamic range for radio signal transmission
• Immunity to EMP
• Low signal loss, for operation from a few metres to >20km

There has, historically, been much concern over placing sensitive and fragile fibre optic components - particularly optical connectors - into active service conditions. However, PPM has extensive experience in designing equipment for these demanding conditions. Modern connector technology, combined with the appropriate design of equipment, means that these systems are as reliable and dependable as any other electronic equipment used in military environments.

Many of the projects that PPM has worked on have involved short timescale Urgent Operational Requirements, and working closely with other manufacturers as part of a large project. PPM successfully combines its ISO9001 and military approved quality systems with the rapid development speed of a small dynamic organisation.

Some examples of projects that PPM has developed fibre optic link technology for include:

• HF man pack radio
• Radar antenna remoting for radiation seeking missile avoidance
• Mobile VHF antenna remoting
• Rapidly deployable, special forces antenna remoting
• Fast spooling systems for rapid cable deployment

Please contact PPM to discuss your application in more detail.