The Navy requires a long distance data link between a UAV and a submarine, which supports transfer of both high bandwidth surveillance data, and command /control messages. This data link must employ a highly secure, covert, and cost-effective design. Initial analysis contained in the proposal shows that the central issue in such a design is the balance between surveillance image quality (which requires significant bandwidth), obtainable UAV prime power, and UAV antenna characteristics. Both power and antenna configuration are constrained by other aspects of the UAV design. It is proposed to develop a spread-sheet based tool which will support trade-off analysis among various choices of frequencies, modulation / compression schemes, power requirements and antennas. Using this tool, appropriate parameters values will be selected, major components chosen, and a sample design presented at a block diagram level. Cost, size, weight and power requirements will be estimated for this design. Benefits In addition to meeting Navy requirements, the data link which is designed using this tool will have commercial value for UAV-based surveillance by other government agencies, highway traffic observation, for patrolling assets such as high voltage transmission lines and oil pipe lines, and for private security services. The design will comprise a significant improvement over previous systems, in terms of range and image quality vs. cost. At the same time, by limiting power requirements and antenna size, it will be possible to use inexpensive UAVs derived from model airplane practice. Keywords UAV, video, surveillance, data link, spread spectrum, UAV antenna, submarine UAV communication
