Multispectral Solutions Inc. (MSSI), an industry leader in the development of ultra wideband (UWB) systems, has received a $24 M contract from the Naval Air System Command for the production of UWB-based Aircraft Wireless Intercommunications Systems (AWICS). Initially developed under Phase I and II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contracts, MSSI’s AWICS system overcomes a major challenge for radio frequency (RF) communications within Naval aircraft, namely the self-interference caused by the reflections of RF energy commonly known as “multipath.” The system allows crews to untether from long cords, dramatically improving mobility, flight safety and emergency egress. Furthermore, by replacing the communication cord with a covert RF link, operational effectiveness is significantly enhanced without exposing the crew to electronic warfare threats. The Navy recently selected MSSI’s AWIC system as an SBIR Success Story, with the production contract representing a major Phase III award. MSSI’s license partner, Raytheon Technical Service Co., Indianapolis, IN, will assist MSSI with retrofitting developed products into existing air-to-sea based platforms and with in-service engineering support. “This award represents a major milestone in the long history of UWB technology development,” stated Dr. Robert Fontana, MSSI president and CEO. “The wireless industry has been promised many new UWB products and MSSI is extremely pleased to be leading the way.”