uAvionix receives DoD AIMS certification for Mode 5 Micro IFF transponder for tactical UAS

uAvionix Corporation announced it achieved DoD AIMS Mk XIIB certification of its first Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) transponder, the RT-2087/ZPX-B. With this certification, ZPX-B becomes the world's smallest, certified micro-IFF transponder, reducing Size, Weight, and Power Consumption (SWaP) characteristics of typical IFF transponders by more than 90%, and at less than half the size, one-third the weight, and one fourth the power consumption of other Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) targeted IFF solutions.

The certification, issued by the Department of Defense (DoD) Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System Identification Friend or Foe Program Office (AIMS PO), attests to its IFF capability and its interoperability with military equipment fielded by NATO and its allied countries. Incorporation of IFF technology into small, tactical, and attritable platforms allows them full participation into the cross-troop, cross-service branch, and cross-nation collaboration and situational awareness that prevents fratricide.

The ZPX-B enables IFF capability for small and tactical Group 1-4 UAS, thanks to its record-breaking SWaP at 3.3 in3, 60 grams, and power consumption of only 3.5 Watts. Transmitting at 54dBm, ZPX-B provides civil transponder modes A, C, S, and ADS-B Out, as well as military modes 1, 2, 3, and 5 Levels 1 and 2 – all individually configurable. ADS-B In functionality provides situational awareness and Detect and Avoid (DAA) capabilities to the host platform. Crypto compatibility complies with AIMS 04-900A Option B, which includes the KIV-77 and KIV-79.

Passive IFF Reception for Situational Awareness

In addition to the ZPX-B, uAvionix introduces the ZPX-R, a passive ADS-B and Mode 5 Level 2 receiver for ground-based, shipborne, or airborne reception for situational awareness and DAA capability. Mode 5 Level 2 encrypted squitters enable situational awareness in areas where Mode 5 interrogators are absent, increasing the scalability of deployment. ZPX-R can provide data in multiple formats, including Open Mission Systems (OMS) for incorporation into tactical displays or ACAS Xu or similar DAA processors.

Unclassified Integration, Testing, and Demonstration with Crypto Emulation

For military programs or OEMs looking to integrate a micro-IFF into their platforms, ZPX-B incorporates an internal crypto-emulator that enables development and test independent of COMSEC-controlled equipment subject to onerous handling requirements.