Ball Aerospace Selected by Defense Innovation Unit to Develop Prototype Antenna for U.S. Navy Ships

Rhea-AI Summary

On July 21, 2020, Ball Aerospace was awarded a contract by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to create a prototype multi-band satellite communications antenna for the U.S. Navy's DDG 1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers. This initiative leverages Ball's expertise in electronically steerable phased array antenna technologies to enhance Navy capabilities. The project is part of the DIU's Multi-Domain Tactical Communications program, with Ball's decades of military experience aiding its development. The company aims to provide innovative solutions for mission-critical communications.

Positive

• Awarded contract by DIU, enhancing military capabilities.
• Leveraging expertise in phased array technology.
• Experience in military communications spanning five decades.

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• None.

BOULDER, Colo., July 21, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Ball Aerospace was selected by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to develop a prototype of a new multi-band, low-observable satellite communications antenna to be installed on the U.S. Navy's newest stealth ships, the DDG 1000 Zumwalt-class destroyers.

Ball is leveraging its portfolios of electronically steerable phased array antenna technologies and high-performance stealth technologies to design a solution that can operate over multiple frequency bands, meet existing signature requirements and integrate into the DDG 1000 Zumwalt-class destroyer.

"We are pleased to partner with DIU and the U.S. Navy to explore ways to quickly and cost-effectively increase the capabilities of the DDG 1000," said Dr. Jake Sauer, vice president and general manager, Tactical Solutions, Ball Aerospace. "Our multi-band, multi-beam phased array heritage and conformal antenna expertise directly supports the warfighter by addressing emerging threats and taking on new missions."

The selection of Ball to produce the new antenna prototype is part of DIU's Multi-Domain Tactical Communications (MDTC) program. Under the MDTC effort, Ball will develop the antenna architecture, beamforming approach and prototype.

Ball has five decades of experience designing and building electronically steerable phased array antenna systems for the U.S. military, enabling mission-critical communications for the warfighter. The company's experience covers a variety of frequencies (including L, S, X, Ku, K, and Ka-band) and applications, from aviation and maritime to land and space. Lightweight, low profile and with no moving parts, Ball's phased array antennas provide numerous benefits over traditional dish antennas, including a modular design to enable scalable solutions and fast, seamless and accurate steering and tracking between satellites for reliable connectivity.

Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, 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. Go Beyond with Ball.® For more information, visit www.ball.com/aerospace or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

About Ball Corporation

Ball Corporation (NYSE: BLL) supplies innovative, sustainable aluminum packaging solutions for beverage, personal care 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 more than 18,300 people worldwide and reported 2019 net sales of $11.5 billion. For more information, visit www.ball.com, or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter.

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SOURCE Ball Aerospace

FAQ

What contract did Ball Aerospace receive from the DIU?

Ball Aerospace was selected to develop a prototype multi-band satellite communications antenna for U.S. Navy's Zumwalt-class destroyers.

What is the significance of the antenna prototype for the DDG 1000?

The antenna prototype aims to enhance the capabilities of the DDG 1000 against emerging threats.

When was the contract awarded to Ball Aerospace?

The contract was awarded on July 21, 2020.

What technologies will Ball Aerospace utilize for the antenna?

Ball will leverage its electronically steerable phased array antenna technologies for the prototype.

What is the focus of the Multi-Domain Tactical Communications program?

The program focuses on enhancing communication capabilities across different military domains.