Request for Information: Addressing Next-Generation RF System Opportunities with Low-Noise Photonic Microwave Oscillators

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) seeks information from technology developers, system integrators, and the domestic manufacturing ecosystem regarding the next steps to advance photonic oscillators into radio frequency (RF) systems of disruptive defense and commercial capability.

DARPA is interested in identifying the outstanding technical challenges and opportunities through analyses of the following areas: (1) mission identification and photonics oscillator roadmapping, (2) maintaining low phase noise under environmental stress, and (3) microsystem integration and manufacturing. This RFI is not seeking new, unproven concepts to develop low-phase-noise photonic oscillators.

Responses to this RFI will be used to assess the feasibility of potential approaches, as well as to chart a path forward in the development of integrated photonics oscillators in RF systems as a prelude to developing a potential future program. This RFI is not seeking new, unproven concepts to develop low-phase-noise photonic oscillators.

Responses to this RFI will be used to assess the feasibility of potential approaches, as well as chart a path forward in the development of integrated photonics oscillators in RF systems, as a prelude to developing a potential future program.