Navy hires two to explore cryogenic RF technologies

The Navy has awarded separate contracts to two companies to conduct work on potential breakthrough technologies: the research, development, evaluation and implementation of cryogenic radio frequency systems, as well as advanced cryogenic core digital and quantum memory technologies.

The service awarded Out of the Fog Research at $53.4 million contract with a potential ceiling of $91.4 million, and Hypres a $40.4 million contract with a potential ceiling of $67.7 million for the work. The two companies will compete for work under the contracts, which are expected to run through July 12, 2019, though it could continue through July 2021 if all options are exercised, according to a Defense department announcement. The contract was intended from the start as a small business set-aside.

The work on cryogenic radio frequency systems will include signal detection, conditioning, conversion, processing and storage in the analog, mixed and digital domains, according to the Navy’s request for proposals, which was issued in January. The contracts also will explore advanced components, such as filters and amplifiers, and cryogenic signal processing.

Efforts on quantum memory technologies will include exploiting superconducting quantum interference devices, tactical signals intelligence systems, and other military platforms.

The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Pacific in San Diego is in charge of the contracts.