Curved (Convex) Surface Global Positioning System (GPS) Antenna Design for Submarine Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) Trident D5 Flight Test Reentry

Current Navy reentry flight test bodies use a commercial GPS antenna to demonstrate the capability to capture GPS data during flight. These are not integrated in a manner representative of the actual reentry body. Development of GPS antennas that may be incorporated onto tactical Navy reentry platforms, such as the Trident D5 reentry test body will result in an additional navigation system and improved guidance. FIRST RF proposes the integration of a GPS antenna for incorporation on the curved aft closure of the Trident D5 reentry test body. The antenna will be compatible with the integration requirements and environments, while still providing good sky coverage and efficient operation for satellite signal reception. The antenna will incorporate innovative material science and robust mechanical packaging techniques to enable compatibility with the thermal and vibration environments on board the Trident D5 test body. The FIRST RF solution is applicable to a variety of reentry and hypersonic platforms.