COFFEE Program Aims to Safely Share Congested Spectrum between DoD and Commercial Industry

Strategic Insights -

The COFFEE program, aimed at transitioning one of its projects from the lab to the field by next year, focuses on developing ultra-compact radio frequency filters that integrate into advanced antenna arrays on different systems. This technology allows for the isolation or suppression of specific signals, enabling the safe sharing of the congested 2-18 GHz portion of the spectrum without interference. Program manager Todd Bauer emphasizes that the technology is not a solution to all problems but provides better isolation between adjacent frequency bands, allowing for cleaner use of available spectrum.

Key Takeaways:

  • The COFFEE program plans to deploy its filters for three different designs by "mid to late 2026": advanced radars for DoD, DoD Common Data Link radios, and commercial-based 6G installations.
  • The goal is to enable these systems to take turns operating on the same bands without fear of interference and jamming.
  • The technology has the potential to alleviate concerns regarding access to portions of the spectrum, particularly the 3.1-3.45 GHz and 7.4-8.4 GHz range.
  • Lawmakers, defense officials, and members of the commercial sector have long-faced battles over access to these portions of the spectrum.
  • The recent reconciliation decision to keep the 3.1-3.45 GHz and 7.4-8.4 GHz portions of the spectrum out of commercial auctions does not impact the COFFEE program.
  • The program remains focused on a wider range to prevent future spectrum battles, targeting the 2-18 GHz range.

Statistics:

  • 2022: The COFFEE program began lab testing.
  • 2026 (mid to late): The program plans to deploy its filters for three different designs.
  • 2-18 GHz: The frequency range targeted by the COFFEE program.
  • 3.1-3.45 GHz: A portion of the spectrum used by DoD for various satellite communications, radars, and navigation systems.
  • 7.4-8.4 GHz: Another portion of the spectrum used by DoD and coveted by the commercial sector.

Sources:

  • Breaking Defense, interview with Todd Bauer, program manager of COFFEE.