AFRWERX Selects MatrixSpace Radar Platform as SWAP-C Payload Foundation

AFWERX, the U.S. Air Force’s innovation hub, has awarded MatrixSpace a $1.25 million direct-to-phase Small Business Innovation Research contract to deliver a SWaP-C multifunction, multiband antenna payload for the Replicator initiative.

Under the deal, MatrixSpace will develop and test SWAP payloads using the company’s existing Radar platform, which provides situational awareness for both airborne and ground-based objects. The payload allows for highly accurate drone detection and counter-unmanned aircraft system capabilities, autonomous aircraft operation and general airspace awareness and security, MatrixSpace said.

Matthew Kling, vice president of intelligent systems at MatrixSpace, said the company is honored to innovate with the military, providing service members with needed capabilities that will strengthen the country’s national defense.

With the growing threat coming from adversaries’ use of UAS, the U.S. government has been investing in exploring ways to effectively address drones. In May, Adm. Fred Pyle, director of surface warfare at the U.S. Navy, called on the federal government to invest in cost-effective solutions to address low-end threats.