APELC Awarded $1.73M SBIR Phase II Contract from Air Force
Austin, TX – October 7, 2025 – Applied Physical Electronics, L.C. (APELC), a leader in pulsed power and electromagnetic systems, has been awarded a $1.73 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II contract by the Air Force to develop a Transportable Array Structure to Support HPRF and HEMP Sources.
This two-year project focuses on solving a key structural challenge within electromagnetic pulse (EMP) array development. As multiple organizations race to advance EMP technologies, APELC’s award aims to fill a significant interest—designing a reconfigurable, transportable array frame capable of supporting large, heavy pulsed power systems in a variety of field environments.
“The successful development of a universal EMP array structure, coupled with well-developed pulsed power systems, could radically change the testing processes and costs,” said Jon Mayes, CEO of APELC. “We’re moving away from single-facility, single-geometry systems that are often incredibly expensive.”
At its core, this SBIR Phase II project addresses a long-term need for flexible, field-ready support structures for HEMP and high-power RF (HPRF) arrays. By focusing on structural engineering—rather than pulsed power generation—APELC seeks to create a frame that:
- Accommodates modular array configurations (e.g., 1×3 elements)
- Supports both vertical and horizontal test orientations
- Minimizes facility infrastructure and enables use of various source types (not limited to APELC systems)
The structure will be demonstrated as a prototype system and validated under realistic deployment conditions.
The ability to bring test systems to the asset—rather than transporting critical assets to centralized test facilities—represents a paradigm shift in cost-efficiency and mission readiness for the Department of War. The Test & Evaluation community, both domestically and internationally, stands to benefit from this flexible approach.
As a long-time innovator in pulsed power and EMP source development, APELC is expanding its role in the evolving EMP array ecosystem. The company’s goal over the next 2–5 years is to lead in the development of modular, interchangeable pulsed power and structural elements—ultimately enabling scalable test environments across military and research domains.
