Northrop, SAIC win DARPA contracts to develop military technology

Science Applications International Corp. and Northrop Grumman Corp. will research and develop high-power amplifiers needed for future military applications under new contracts with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

SAIC and two divisions of Northrop will provide research and development services in an effort to build prototype terahertz-frequency, high-power amplifiers. SAIC won a two-year contract that could be worth up to $11 million. Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems won an $8.8 million contract. Northrop Grumman Space and Mission Systems won a $37.3 million contract. The contracts are with DARPA’s Microsystems Technology Office 

The DARPA office leads research in integrated microsystems to enable new performance and functionality for future DOD systems. Future military and aerospace applications that operate at terahertz frequencies will need improved terahertz transmitter and receiver technologies to be effective.

Achieving the level of circuit technology integration necessary to enable practical terahertz systems will require new methods for integrating devices into compact circuits.

Under the contract, the companies will develop prototype terahertz amplifiers that will help enable follow-on development of new military and dual use systems for imaging, communications, and other applications. In addition, the companies will provide design and analysis support services using simulation and design codes for system components including the electron gun, circuit, and collector.

SAIC, of San Diego, ranks No. 5 on Washington Technology’s 2008 Top 100 list of the largest federal prime contractors. Northrop Grumman, of Los Angeles, ranks No. 3 on the list.