Compact High-Pressure CO₂ Compressor for Aviation Thermal Management Systems - SBIR Topic DAF26BZ03-NV016

Funding Amount:

Est. $250,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

The objective of this effort is to design and develop a compact, aviation‑grade CO₂ compressor capable of meeting the unique thermal management demands of military aircraft. The compressor must support high‑pressure transcritical CO₂ cycles while remaining lightweight, compact, and highly efficient over a wide range of heat loads. The project will evaluate potential options such as (but not limited to) scroll, semi‑hermetic reciprocating, and screw compressor architectures, assessing their respective benefits and challenges, including efficiency, vibration, noise, reliability, turn-down, and high‑pressure capability, to identify the most suitable design for aviation applications. The selected compressor shall support mission heat loads up to 200 kW with a turndown ratio of 3:1 (threshold) and 4:1 (objective), maintain the TMS outlet temperature at 20 °C ± 5 °C under dynamic loads, and reject heat to a 50 °C sink during transcritical (R-744) operation using a gas cooler as needed. The compressor shall be lightweight, compact, low-noise, and demonstrate high isentropic efficiency at the design point.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

This topic focuses on developing a compact, high-efficiency CO₂ (R-744) compressor specifically tailored for aircraft thermal management systems (TMS) across a wide range of Air Force platforms, including fighters, transports, tankers, and next-generation autonomous collaborative platforms (ACP). Modern aircraft face growing thermal challenges from advanced mission systems such as radars, electronic warfare, and high-power avionics that demand reliable, lightweight, and efficient cooling solutions. While legacy refrigerants such as R-134a and R-1233zd(E) are commonly used, they require bulky, heavy components that constrain system design. By contrast, CO₂ offers high volumetric cooling capacity, environmental neutrality, and the potential for significant reductions in system size and weight. Military aviation operations introduce unique challenges. CO₂ systems operate at substantially higher pressures and often in transcritical cycles, requiring compressors capable of safely handling high pressure conditions while minimizing vibration, noise, and weight. The compressor must maintain high efficiency across a wide range of operating conditions, including hot-day ground operations and high-altitude low-temperature environments. This project seeks to develop and demonstrate compressor technologies that deliver a compact, high-efficiency, low-noise, and reliable aviation‑grade CO₂ compressor capable of precise temperature control and reliable operation throughout all mission phases. The proposed work should address the critical challenge of managing high heat loads in military aircraft. This project will leverage the thermodynamic properties of CO₂ to develop a compact, lightweight, and energy‑efficient thermal management CO2 compressor capable of reliable performance during high-demand phases of the mission, such as takeoff, climb and mission system engagement. The compressor should be designed to handle the highly dynamic thermal loads generated by next‑generation electrified aviation systems, ensuring stable and efficient cooling performance throughout all mission phases. The heat load can vary throughout a mission from notionally 200 kW during takeoff to 75 kW at cruise conditions, and the compressor must be able to operate efficiently over the entire range of heat loads. The compressor must cool the heat load to 20 °C ± 5 °C, and be capable of rejecting heat to a heat sink at 50 °C with a typical gas-cooler if needed. Proposals should address the development of an aviation-grade CO₂ compressor capable of operating efficiently across the full environmental, temperature, and pressure envelopes encountered in aircraft TMS, including high-altitude low-temperature environments, shock, vibration, EMI, etc., while operating in a transcritical thermodynamic cycle.

PHASE I

Design and develop a conceptual laboratory prototype of a compact CO₂ compressor optimized for aviation thermal management systems. Perform modeling and simulation to evaluate compressor performance under transcritical operating conditions and validate feasibility of achieving weight and efficiency targets.

PHASE II

Refine and fabricate a functional prototype CO2 compressor based on Phase I results. Conduct laboratory testing to assess heat rejection efficiency, weight reduction, and reliable operation across representative aviation conditions.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

This phase will transition the developed CO₂ compressor for dual application in military and commercial aviation environments, including collaboration with aircraft OEMs to support integration, certification, and flight qualification.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Quantum Solutions for Proactive Advanced Response in Cyber Warfare - QSPARX - SBIR Topic DAF26BZ03-NV017

Funding Amount:

Est. $250,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

The primary objective of this Phase I SBIR effort is to develop and validate an AI-driven cybersecurity platform tailored to the Air Force District of Washington's (AFDW) urgent needs for post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) readiness. The proposed solution aims to enhance threat detection, cryptographic resilience, and mission assurance across high-value networks and communications managed by the 844th Communications Group (CG) at Joint Base Andrews and the National Capital Region. This project focuses on transitioning existing cryptographic assets to quantum-resilient standards to address quantum-enabled threats while minimizing disruptions to legacy infrastructure. Expected outcomes include the creation of a prototype that demonstrates automated threat detection, risk scoring, and compliance monitoring within Air Force environments, leveraging AI and machine learning technologies to ensure robust cyber defense mechanisms post-quantum era.

Description:

The Air Force District of Washington (AFDW) and the 844th Communications Group (CG) at Joint Base Andrews face significant cyber threats from adversaries leveraging quantum computing capabilities. Current cryptographic measures are inadequate against quantum decryption techniques, which could compromise classified and sensitive data, crucial systems, and overall mission assurance. To address these vulnerabilities, this project proposes developing an AI-driven cybersecurity platform designed to transition existing cryptographic assets to post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) standards. This solution will enhance threat detection, cryptographic resilience, and mission assurance across high-value AFDW networks and communications.

The desired outcome of this project is to create a robust cyber defense system that integrates advanced machine learning algorithms for automated threat detection, risk scoring, and compliance monitoring. This platform will ensure seamless PQC integration while minimizing disruptions to the legacy infrastructure, ultimately safeguarding critical Air Force data and assets. The project will commence at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 3, focusing on analytical and experimental proof-of-concept, and aims to reach a TRL of 6 by the end of Phase II, demonstrating a system/subsystem prototype in a relevant environment.

The project will involve the following efforts and activities across its phases:

Phase I:

Conduct a comprehensive cryptographic asset inventory within the AFDW, identifying key management practices, storage locations, and interoperability with legacy systems.

Develop a clear mapping of existing cryptographic foundations to pinpoint areas needing quantum-resilient upgrades.

Establish success metrics, including detection accuracy and response times, for the AI/ML components of the solution.

Deliverable: A prototype demonstrating automated threat detection, risk scoring, and compliance monitoring, validated in simulated Air Force environments.

Phase II:

Enhance the prototype based on Phase I feedback, scaling the solution for broader network integration and real-world application within the AFDW and beyond.

Conduct extensive testing and validation of PQC algorithms in forensic cryptographic workflows, ensuring robust performance under diverse threat scenarios.

Deploy the fully developed platform in live Air Force environments, providing continuous monitoring and automated response capabilities.

Deliverable: A fully functional AI-driven cybersecurity platform with demonstrated effectiveness in operational Air Force settings, maintaining compliance with PQC standards and legacy system integration.

By leveraging a Quantum Value Pipeline framework, this project will significantly elevate the cybersecurity posture of the AFDW, addressing urgent post-quantum threats while maintaining mission-critical operations. The anticipated advancements in AI and machine learning will foster innovation and align with DoW cybersecurity policies, ensuring long-term resilience and superiority in the quantum era.

PHASE I

The Phase I effort will assess the feasibility of an AI-driven platform for PQC transition. Key goals include conducting a cryptographic asset inventory, mapping key management, storage, and legacy interoperability. Success criteria: a prototype demonstrating automated threat detection, risk scoring, compliance monitoring in Air Force environments, and metrics on AI/ML effectiveness, such as detection accuracy and response times.

PHASE II

Phase II will deliver a fully validated AI-driven cybersecurity platform, integrating post-quantum cryptography. Success includes achieving TRL 6 with seamless deployment in operational environments, confirmed through rigorous testing and compliance monitoring. Metrics: enhanced threat detection accuracy, response times, and robustness against quantum-enabled cyber threats, ensuring mission assurance for AFDW networks.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Phase III will focus on deploying the AI-driven PQC platform for real-world Air Force and commercial environments. Military applications include enhanced cryptographic resilience and threat detection in high-value networks. Commercially, the platform offers robust cybersecurity solutions for critical infrastructure. Expected TRL at entry is 6, advancing to TRL 9. Transition planning includes obtaining necessary DAF approvals and exploring collaboration with allies and private-sector partners.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Leveraging AI/ML for Optimizing JAG Data, Decision Making, and Military Justice Outcomes - SBIR Topic DAF26BZ03-NV018

Funding Amount:

Est. $250,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

This SBIR Phase I initiative aims to explore and validate AI/ML solutions specifically for enhancing the data management, decision-making, and judicial outcomes within the Air Force District of Washington Judge Advocate (AFDW JA). The primary objective is to prototype advanced AI/ML techniques that can address the unique challenges associated with JAG data lifecycle and operational demands. This includes:

Optimizing JAG Data Management: Employing AI/ML for automated document classification, metadata extraction, and intelligent eDiscovery to streamline evidence review processes.

Enhancing Decision-Making: Utilizing predictive analytics for case forecasting, resource allocation, and bias detection to ensure equitable and efficient legal rulings.

Improving Military Justice Outcomes: Implementing generative AI for rapid advisory responses, anomaly detection in compliance pipelines, and reinforcement learning for workflow improvements.

The aim is to develop capabilities that bolster data integrity, mitigate risks in critical areas such as military justice proceedings, and support the AFDW JA's mission to provide timely, accurate legal counsel. These efforts will align with Department of War ethical AI principles, ensuring secure data handling on IL5-compliant platforms, and adhere to the guidelines set forth in Air Force Doctrine Note 25-1 for responsible AI integration.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

The legal and judicial data management processes within the Air Force District of Washington Judge Advocate (AFDW JA) are currently labor-intensive and prone to delays due to the reliance on manual reviews and updates. These challenges hinder the timely delivery of accurate and independent counsel required for contingency responses, ceremonial honors, and global operational support. This Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) topic aims to address these issues by introducing innovative AI/ML solutions that automate and expedite AFDW JA's workflows, thereby enhancing mission effectiveness and efficiency.

Key areas of focus include:

Military Justice under the UCMJ: Automating the intake and processing of judicial and legal case data through advanced AI techniques such as natural language processing for automatic document classification, metadata extraction, and anomaly detection.

Contracting Oversight: Leveraging predictive modeling techniques to improve data quality, accuracy, and mitigate bias in decision-making processes.

Interagency Civil Support: Utilizing generative AI for rapid query responses and reinforcement learning to optimize workflow efficiencies, along with advanced data visualization tools to provide actionable insights and facilitate stakeholder briefings.

The desired outcome of this project is to transform the unstructured data overload into actionable intelligence, thereby reducing processing delays by 50-70% and significantly enhancing overall legal advisory excellence. The proposed AI/ML solutions must comply with Air Force standards and Department of War ethical AI principles, ensuring secure and explainable outputs that are compatible with existing Air Force data platforms. This will support seamless integration and scalability across the National Capital Region and worldwide missions.

The initial Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at the project start is TRL 3, with the aim to achieve TRL 6 by the end of Phase II. The efforts required to achieve these objectives include:

Phase I: Conducting feasibility studies, developing preliminary AI/ML models, and validating the core functionalities through prototype testing. Minimum deliverables include a detailed feasibility report, initial prototype/wireframe demonstration, and a comprehensive plan for Phase II development.

Phase II: Refining and expanding the AI/ML models based on Phase I results, conducting extensive testing in operational environments, and finalizing the integration with existing AFDW JA systems. Minimum deliverables include a fully functional AI/ML solution, detailed testing and evaluation reports, and documentation for system integration and user training.

By implementing these advanced AI/ML solutions, the AFDW JA will enhance its capability to provide timely and accurate legal counsel, aligning with the strategic objectives of the Air Force District of Washington and ensuring operational readiness and effectiveness.

PHASE I

Phase I aims to explore AI/ML analytics, predictive models, and visualizations for AFDW JA's data handling and decision processes. The focus is on theoretical design validated by simulated data, addressing issues such as data quality and predictive modeling. Deliverables include a technical report, conceptual prototypes, and a transition plan. Success is measured by conceptual innovation and alignment with AFDW JA's operational needs.

PHASE II

In Phase II of this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) effort, participants will advance the conceptual framework from Phase I into a functional prototype of the AI/ML solution, conducting rigorous development, integration, and validation testing to demonstrate operational viability for Air Force judicial and legal case management use cases. Building on synthetic or de-identified datasets representative of military justice proceedings, contracting oversight, and operational legal support scenarios, the prototype must exhibit end-to-end performance in automating data ingestion, quality enhancement, and decision support, while quantifying impacts on AFDW JA's mission objectives for improved data quality, accuracy, and timeliness in delivering independent counsel. The prototype shall implement automated ingestion pipelines for large-scale, unstructured judicial and legal data volumes, integrated with machine learning-based data quality issue detection—such as real-time identification of missing values, inconsistencies, or biases—and deploy predictive modeling and imputation techniques (e.g., generative adversarial networks or ensemble-based methods) to resolve gaps and boost data integrity for enhanced decision-making. Participants must also integrate interactive data visualization interfaces to dynamically display pre- and post-imputation analytics, including metrics on completeness, accuracy improvements, and derived insights for judicial process reviews. Testing will occur in simulated operational environments to evaluate scalability, interoperability, and robustness against edge cases, with all elements adhering to Department of War ethical AI principles and Air Force standards for secure, explainable AI, ensuring compatibility with existing data ecosystems. Deliverables include a working prototype, comprehensive validation reports with empirical benchmarks (e.g., imputation accuracy >90%, processing efficiency gains >50%), user feedback from AFDW JA stakeholders, and a detailed Phase III commercialization and transition strategy to support full-scale deployment across the National Capital Region and worldwide missions.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

In Phase III, the validated AI/ML solution from Phase II will transition to full-scale production, deployment, and commercialization, integrating into AFDW JA's operational systems for real-world application in military justice, contracting, and contingency support, with DoW funding or non-SBIR contracts facilitating rapid fielding. This phase emphasizes scalability, user training, and sustainment to achieve enterprise-wide efficiencies, such as 70%+ reductions in data processing times and enhanced equity in outcomes. Dual-use potential extends to civilian sectors, including federal/state courts and private law firms, where the technology can automate legal data management, predictive case analytics, and compliance reporting, fostering partnerships for broader market adoption in judicial tech and legal AI services.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Field Speciation of Ultrafine to Coarse Particulate - SBIR Topic DHA26BZ03-NV006

Funding Amount:

Est. $300,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate the efficacy of a fieldable capability to identify the chemical composition of ultrafine, fine and coarse particulate ranging from 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) to 10 microns.

Description:

This SBIR topic aligns with the DHA Environmental Exposures Toxic Injury Prevention Roadmap, specifically focusing on enhanced tools and assessment methodology for acute and chronic exposure to military-relevant chemicals, materials, and hazards.

The DoW requires the capability to comprehensively characterize particulate composition in situ in the field to replace current methods which require samples to be collected and sent to a reach back laboratory. Particulate exposure is correlated with exacerbating asthma, cardiopulmonary disease and systemic effects (1-2). Chemical composition is important to correlate exposure with health impact (1-2). Particulates of interest for monitoring in the DoW are broad and include those generated from both environmental and occupational sources. The primary chemical classes of interest include biological, carbonaceous (i.e. soot) and metals. Particulates are generated at relatively high concentrations from maintenance processes and high intensity processes such as weapons firing, engine emissions and fires. Particulates generated from maintenance processes can be present in a broad size range depending on the nature of the process, while the peak size of particulates generated during high intensity processes are often less than 0.1 microns (100 nanometers) (3). In outdoor environments, particulates pick up additional contaminants, such as biological materials (4). There are methods available to collect particulates and submit for laboratory analysis, but methods to characterize particulate composition on-site in field environments are limited in the ability to detect all class of interest (carbonaceous, metals, biologicals) and all size fractions (ultrafine, fine, coarse).

Developing a comprehensive detection capability for ultrafine particulates is a critical investment in the long-term readiness and well-being of the force. Standard monitoring equipment often fails to detect submicron particles, which pose a medical threat due to their ability to penetrate the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Service members operating in environments such as burn pits, flightlines/flight decks, or industrial maintenance facilities may be exposed to hazardous concentrations without warning, leading to systemic inflammation, cardiovascular stress, and respiratory toxicity. Proactive, quantitative surveillance provides data to allow commanders to make informed decisions to protect the force, enables preventative medicine personnel to mitigate hazards, and creates a permanent exposure data health record essential for future service member and veteran health care.

The novel materiel solution desired is a field portable capability to characterize the chemical composition of ultrafine, fine and coarse particulate ranging from 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) to 10 microns. The priority is for the device to differentiate between carbonaceous, metal, water vapor and biological particulate. However, additional speciation of elemental versus organic carbon, specific metals, minerals and biologicals is also desired. The sensitivity of the device must be low enough to be compatible with field relevant concentrations (size-dependent, available in literature referenced). The response from sample collection to reporting must be real-time or near real-time (< 10 minutes). The device must integrate a simple user-interface and calibration capability, require minimal input from the user and produce data output which can be easily interpreted. The device must also be ruggedized to meet requirements in MIL-STD-810H (5). Reliance on consumable materials such as working fluids should be minimized. Both onboard and wireless data transmission capability must be integrated into the device. Device cost threshold should target <$50K per unit to ensure practicable transition.

PHASE I

The Phase I effort will focus on a determination of a technological approach and proof of feasibility for developing a field portable capability to characterize the chemical composition of ultrafine, fine and coarse particulate ranging from 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) to 10 microns that will at a minimum differentiate between carbonaceous, metal, and biological particulate, as well as water vapor droplets. Additional speciation of specific metals would be highly beneficial. The ability to sample particulate in the ultrafine to coarse size ranges and differentiate composition in each size class is a requirement and shall be incorporated into the design. The feasibility analysis can include a review of currently available technology and analysis of components that can be combined and miniaturized while maintaining performance. The technical approach description shall also include an analysis of strategies for maximizing accuracy and stability in a broad range of environments and minimizing complexity, as well as a preliminary design. An integrated solution and design for field accuracy checks with minimal consumables and logistics requirements shall also be included.

PHASE II

The Phase II effort will include the development of at least two prototype devices and a robust performance evaluation to determine accuracy when exposed to particulate emission sources at a broad range of environmental conditions, including -26 to +109 degrees Fahrenheit and 0 to 95% humidity (see MIL-STD-810H). The devices must also be evaluated for ruggedness. The size and weight of the device must be minimized to less than 2000 cubic feet and less than 30 pounds. Detection accuracy, consistency, response time and stability over time as a function of particulate source and concentration across both devices should be evaluated. The operational range for temperature, humidity and pressure should be evaluated and reported. Phase II shall also include the development of a plan for scaling the manufacturing of the device with an estimated cost per unit. Finally, the ability to confirm detection accuracy in the field must be demonstrated.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

The envisioned end state is a field portable capability to characterize the chemical composition of ultrafine, fine and coarse particulate ranging from 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) to 10 microns that can be sold commercially as a standalone device. To achieve this end state, phase III efforts should include further hardware refinement for manufacturability, software refinement to ensure useability and technology demonstration in a broad range of field environments and conditions. Development of both private and military sectors shall be investigated. Commercial applications where this capability may be used include occupational exposure assessments to assess and document worker exposure in maintenance facilities, construction sites, firing ranges, emergency response sites, flightlines and medical facilities. Military applications include occupational exposure assessments (i.e. compliance monitoring) and will be primarily tailed for acute threat warning and assessment in alignment with military medical modernization requirements.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Open Architecture OEM Real-time Ultrafine Particulate Sensor - SBIR Topic DHA26BZ03-NV007

Funding Amount:

Est. $300,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate the efficacy of a low size, weight, power, and cost, and open-architecture ultrafine particulate sensor with real-time detection down to 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) or less at concentrations up to 10^6 particles per cubic centimeter.

Description:

This SBIR topic aligns with the DHA Environmental Exposures Toxic Injury Prevention Roadmap, specifically focusing on enhanced tools and assessment methodology for acute and chronic exposure to military-relevant chemicals, materials, and hazards.

Ultrafine particulates pose a significant health risk due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs, enter the bloodstream, and translocate to the brain. Exposure has been correlated with exacerbating asthma, cardiopulmonary disease and systemic effects (1). However, current mass-based exposure assessment standards are inadequate for characterizing the risks associated with these low-mass, high-surface-area particles and mixtures. The DoW currently lacks a detection capability to comprehensively characterize a service member’s exposure to ultrafine particulates, which results in the inability to evaluate potential correlation with health outcomes. Ultrafine particulates of interest for occupational monitoring include those generated from high intensity processes such as weapons firing, engine emissions and fires (2-3). Submicron particulate exposure in occupational environments with these emission sources is highly variable and depends on proximity to the source and airflow conditions, which necessitates personal breathing zone monitoring (i.e. affordable sensors). The peak size of particulates generated from these processes are less than 0.1 microns (100 nanometers). Most commercially available Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) particulate matter sensors use an optical measurement approach, which limits the lower size that can be detected to about 0.3 microns. Currently available direct reading instruments for measuring particulates less than 0.3 microns in real-time include condensation particle counters and electrometers, which are expensive (>$10K). Most are not available as an OEM version to be integrated with other sensors. Those that are available suffer from a relatively low upper concentration limit (10^5 particles per cubic centimeter) so cannot be used in the field for emission exposure measurements, where concentrations are often closer to 10^6 particles per cubic centimeter or higher (4).

Developing a comprehensive detection capability for ultrafine particulates is a critical investment in the long-term readiness and well-being of the force. Standard monitoring equipment often fails to detect submicron particles, which pose a medical threat due to their ability to penetrate the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Service members operating in environments such as burn pits, flightlines/flight decks, or industrial maintenance facilities may be exposed to hazardous concentrations without warning, leading to systemic inflammation, cardiovascular stress, and respiratory toxicity. Proactive, quantitative surveillance provides data to allow commanders to make informed decisions to protect the force, enables preventative medicine personnel to mitigate hazards, and creates a permanent exposure data health record essential for future service member and veteran health care.

The novel materiel solution desired is a low size, weight, power and cost OEM ultrafine particulate sensor with real-time detection down to 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) or less at concentrations up to 10^6 particles per cubic centimeter. Individual sensors must be <$1K and have an open architecture that will allow for end user integration with other sensors or devices. The sensor must be ruggedized to meet requirements in MIL-STD-810H (5). In addition to the sensor, a solution to test calibration status in the field must also be developed. The development of the sensor and bump test solution must be coupled with a demonstration of efficacy to meet the stated requirements as well as repeatability in manufacturing consistency and performance across multiple sensors. Reliance on consumable materials such as working fluids should be minimized.

PHASE I

The Phase I effort will focus on a determination of a technological approach and proof of feasibility for developing a low cost (<$1K) OEM ultrafine particulate sensor that meets the required specifications, including ability to measure down to at least 0.01 microns (10 nanometers) at concentrations up to 10^6 particles per cubic centimeter with sensor response time of one second and accuracy of ±10% and sensor stability for at least one year. The feasibility analysis can include a review of currently available technology and analysis of components that can be simplified, miniaturized or eliminated while maintaining performance. The technical approach description shall also include an analysis of strategies for maximizing accuracy and stability in a broad range of environments as well as a preliminary design. A solution for field accuracy checks with minimal consumables and logistics requirements shall also be included.

PHASE II

The Phase II effort will include the development of three to five prototype devices and a robust performance evaluation to determine sensor accuracy when exposed to different ultrafine particulate emission sources at a broad range of environmental conditions, including -26 to +109 degrees Fahrenheit and 0 to 95% humidity (5). Sensor accuracy, response time and stability over time as a function of particulate source and concentration across 3-5 copies should be evaluated. The operational range for temperature, humidity and pressure shall be reported. Phase II will also include the development of a plan for scaling the manufacturing of the sensor with estimated per sensor cost. Finally, the ability to evaluate sensor accuracy in the field must also be demonstrated.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

The envisioned end state is an OEM ultrafine particulate sensor that reliably measures particulates < 0.01 – 0.3 microns and can be sold commercially as a compliment to currently available optical sensors which typically measures particulates in the 0.3 – 10 micron size range. To achieve this end state, phase III efforts should include further hardware refinement for manufacturability, software refinement to ensure useability and technology demonstration in a broad range of field environments and conditions. Development via both private and military sectors should be investigated. Commercial applications where this capability may be used include wildfire response, manufacturing facilities, construction sites, airport flightlines, medical facilities and firing ranges to both assess and document worker exposure levels but also to evaluate the efficacy of controls. Development through government pathways may be considered in support of joint defense and medical modernization applications including comprehensive exposure monitoring and threat detection.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Digital Twin of the Organization for Enhanced Mission Readiness - SBIR Topic DLA26BZ03-NV011

Funding Amount:

Est. $100,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) seeks to develop and implement a dynamic workforce digital twin to enhance organizational effectiveness, support mission-critical decisions, and accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies. As Artificial Intelligence (AI) fundamentally changes the workforce of the future, the Department must achieve a 10x productivity increase to maintain strategic overmatch and compete effectively with near-peer adversaries and the workforce plays a critical role in achieving this scale. The primary objective is to create a Digital Twin (DT) of the organization capable of generating synthetic data and enabling leaders to react quickly to dynamic changes. This tool will inform key workforce-related decisions, improve how work gets done, and allow for robust scenario-planning for core mission activities under unpredictable global conditions.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

A digital twin of the organization is a critical enabler for the DLA, empowering leaders to model and test workforce scenarios, optimize processes, and achieve the exponential efficiency gains required for modern great power competition. Current static models are insufficient for the agility needed today. The proposed solution will move beyond legacy systems by integrating real-time data to provide dynamic insights into workforce capabilities, productivity limitations, and the potential impacts of organizational restructuring.

Crucially, this organizational DT must possess the capability to generate synthetic data to simulate complex, unforeseen scenarios, allowing the enterprise to react rapidly to supply chain disruptions, geopolitical shifts, or internal surges. By modeling the workforce of the future—one that is heavily augmented by AI—this effort will explore innovative data sources and functionalities to address critical questions:

•  Strategic Competition & Productivity: How can we leverage the DT to identify structural and process pathways to a 10x productivity increase, countering the scale of adversaries like China?

•  Surge Deployment & Rapid Reaction: How ready is the workforce for a sudden surge scenario? Utilizing synthetic data generation, how can we proactively test personnel moves to backfill deployed staff without mission degradation?

•  AI Integration & Organizational Structure: What are the root causes of manual work, and what activities must be stopped or automated by AI? How does the organizational structure need to shift to maximize human-machine teaming and efficiently integrate new mission sets?

Research and Development (R&D) efforts for this topic should demonstrate a technical feasibility that has not been fully established and must be judged to be at a Technology and/or Manufacturing Readiness Level (TRL/MRL) between 3 and 6 to be considered for funding.

PHASE I

Not to exceed a duration of 12 months and a cost of $100,000. Phase I will focus on exploring the value of a digital workforce twin by delivering a proof-of-concept. This phase includes:

1.  Identifying and ranking high-impact use cases (e.g., surge deployment in human capital, order-to-cash in finance, human-machine teaming integration).

2.  Identifying necessary data sources, articulating a data acquisition and synthetic data generation plan, and defining success criteria.

3.  Developing a business case on the expected ROI of the tool and a product roadmap for a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).

An alignment or collaboration with a relevant DLA Component organization (e.g., DLA J1, J6, J3, and J7) is highly desirable.

PHASE II

Phase II will consist of establishing a pilot-scale process to build, test, and validate a functioning Minimum Viable Product (MVP) of the digital workforce twin solution. This will be conducted in a series of milestone-driven agile sprints to rapidly deliver incremental value and incorporate user feedback. The goal is to produce a functioning tool that can simulate scenarios via synthetic data, scale to other use cases, and refine the business case for further investment based on demonstrated mission value in increasing productivity. Collaboration with a relevant DoW Component organization is highly desirable.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

At this point, no specific funding is associated with Phase III. The progress and relationships developed in Phases I and II should position the solution for transition to production in support of DoW orders. The underlying technology can be adapted for a wide range of commercial and public sector applications, including corporate strategic planning, human resource management in large enterprises, and organizational design for complex, non-DoW government agencies navigating the AI transition. The goal is the organic growth of the business by applying the solution to both defense and commercial markets.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

AI-Powered Tool for Automated Evaluation of Vendor Economic Dependency - SBIR Topic DLA26BZ03-NV012

Funding Amount:

Est. $100,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop an innovative, AI-driven tool to automate the assessment of economic dependency for vendors within the Defense Logistics Agency's (DLA) supply chain. This capability will enable DLA to proactively identify relationships and analyze potential related-party transactions and economic dependencies in compliance with federal accounting standards and audit recommendations, including specifically Statements of Federal Financial Accounting Standards 47, thereby enhancing supply chain resilience, financial stewardship, and audit compliance.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

DLA's global mission relies on a vast and diverse industrial base. Ensuring financial transparency and mitigating supply chain risk requires a comprehensive understanding of the economic relationships between DLA and its key suppliers. Current methods for this analysis are manual, time-consuming, and cannot effectively scale across thousands of vendors and millions of transactions.

This SBIR topic seeks the development of an AI-powered tool to automate this process. The desired solution would integrate with DLA's business systems to identify significant vendor relationships and automatically retrieve publicly available financial data (e.g., from SEC filings). Using this data, the tool will apply a defined criterion for economic dependency (e.g., percentage of a vendor's revenue derived from DLA) to flag potential related parties. The solution should also be capable of assessing risk based on contract type (e.g., cost-reimbursement vs. fixed-price). The final tool must be designed to operate in a secure government environment and provide auditable, traceable results

PHASE I

Conduct a feasibility study to demonstrate the core concepts. This includes developing a proof-of-concept tool that can successfully identify a universe of vendors from sample contract data, retrieve public financial information from sources like the SEC's EDGAR system, commercial public 10K reports, SAM.gov, and apply the economic dependency criteria. The study must address SFFAS 47. The final report should include the prototype design, preliminary results, established golden dataset to base subsequent review and analysis upon, and a detailed plan for a Phase II effort. The Phase I award will not exceed $100,000 over a 12-month period.

PHASE II

Develop a scalable prototype of the AI tool within a government-approved development environment that fits DLA tech stack. The prototype must demonstrate the ability to process a large volume of vendor and contract data, accurately retrieve external information to support the evaluation of relationships and economic dependencies, assess and map/categorize risk and materiality, and provide transparent evidence for DLA assertions and/or disclosures with deep reasoning anchored to SFFAS 47. Phase II will include rigorous testing to validate the accuracy and efficiency of the tool and will produce a detailed transition plan for integration into DLA's operational environment. The Phase II award will not exceed $1,000,000 over a 24-month period.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

A successful solution will be transitioned from development to production for operational use within DLA’s environment and technology stack to support ongoing audit readiness and supply chain risk management. This technology has applicability for other DoW components and federal agencies seeking to automate financial oversight and identify concentration risk within their own supply chains or those using Defense Capital Working Funds (DCWF) to support investment analysis, strategic supply chain management, budgetary projections, and financial compliance, where identifying and understanding economic dependencies on the DLA and DoW is critical to fiscal stewardship.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Next-Generation Non-Lithium Battery Technology for Safe, Extreme-Environment, High-Performance Resilient Military Logistics and Field Operations - SBIR Topic DLA26BZ03-NV013

Funding Amount:

Est. $100,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate a non-lithium battery cell and/or prototype battery pack capable of supporting BB-2590/U-class applications, with emphasis on safety, transportability, and domestic manufacturability, while achieving mission-relevant performance thresholds.

Description:

DLA’s current battery portfolio, including the widely fielded BB-2590/U rechargeable battery (NSN: 6140-01-490-4316), relies heavily on lithium-ion chemistries with significant exposure to foreign (including Chinese-origin) supply chains. Section 154 of the FY2024 NDAA restricts DoD procurement from certain foreign sources beginning in October 2027, creating an urgent need for compliant alternatives.

Beyond supply chain risk, lithium-based batteries present operational challenges including hazardous material classification for transport, thermal runaway risks, limited long-duration storage performance, and handling complexity in forward-deployed environments.

DLA requires a non-lithium battery solution that can support BB-2590/U-class applications while improving:

• Safety: Reduced or eliminated thermal runaway risk 

• Transportability: Less restrictive hazardous material classification and simplified logistics handling 

• Storage Readiness: Low self-discharge and long-duration storage (≥12–24 months) 

• Operational Performance: Reliable function across -30°C to +60°C environments 

• Durability: Resistance to shock, vibration, and field conditions 

• Supply Chain: Fully domestic or NDAA-compliant sourcing 

Solutions may not need to exceed lithium-ion performance in all areas but must demonstrate clear operational advantages in safety, logistics, or sustainment.

Performance Targets:

Proposed solutions should aim to meet or approach:

• Energy Density: ≥150 Wh/kg (threshold), ≥200 Wh/kg (objective) 

• Cycle Life: ≥500 cycles to 80% capacity 

• Storage Life: ≥12 months with minimal degradation 

• Operating Temperature: -30°C to +60°C 

• Safety: No thermal runaway under standard abuse conditions 

• Transport: Reduced hazardous classification compared to Li-ion (if applicable)

• MIL-STD environmental qualification testing covering temperature, vibration, and mechanical shock

• Preliminary safety qualification aligned with MIL-PRF-32383/3

• Validated domestic bill of materials demonstrating NDAA-compliant manufacturability

• Commercialization plan and domestic manufacturing roadmap with cost-per-unit projections at production volume

Scope

Phase I (6 months, up to $100K)

Focus on cell-level feasibility and trade-space validation:

• Demonstrate a non-lithium electrochemical system with initial performance data 

• Characterize:

  • Energy density (Wh/kg, Wh/L) 

  • Cycle life projections 

  • Voltage profile and discharge characteristics 

  • Temperature performance 

• Conduct preliminary safety testing, including abuse tolerance 

• Perform storage/self-discharge testing 

• Provide:

  • Concept for integration into BB-2590/U-class form factor 

  • Initial domestic supply chain assessment 

  • Phase II development plan 

Phase II (18 months, up to $1M)

Focus on prototype demonstration and transition readiness:

• Develop a prototype battery module or pack aligned with BB-2590/U electrical requirements 

• Conduct:

  • Environmental testing (temperature, shock, vibration) 

  • Extended cycle and storage validation 

  • Safety characterization aligned with military battery standards 

• Deliver:

  • Prototype system demonstration 

  • Validated domestic Bill of Materials 

  • Manufacturing feasibility and cost model 

  • Transition plan including pathway to qualification and DLA procurement

PHASE I

Phase I Deliverables (up to 6 months, up to $100,000)

The Phase I effort will establish the core technical feasibility of the proposed non-lithium battery chemistry through systematic cell characterization and safety testing. The following deliverables are expected:

Electrochemical Characterization: Prototype cells at a relevant form factor shall be characterized and tested, with performance data reported for energy density in Wh/kg and Wh/L, cycle life to 80% capacity retention, nominal voltage, and operational temperature range across both cold and high-heat conditions.

Safety Testing: Thermal stability characterization shall be conducted to demonstrate the absence of thermal runaway response under representative charge, discharge, and abuse conditions, establishing the fundamental safety advantage of the proposed chemistry over conventional lithium-based systems.

Self-Discharge Assessment: A storage stability assessment shall be conducted to measure self-discharge rates over a defined period, providing quantitative data to evaluate the technology's potential for reducing infrastructure overhead associated with long-term DLA war-reserve and pre-positioned stock storage.

PHASE II

Phase II Deliverables (18 months, up to $1,000,000)

Building on the Phase I feasibility demonstration, Phase II will advance the technology to a battery pack level and generate the qualification and commercialization data required for DLA procurement consideration. The following deliverables are expected:

•  Scaled Battery Pack Prototype: A fully integrated battery pack prototype shall be developed meeting the form factor and electrical specifications of target DLA battery applications, demonstrating the scalability of the Phase I cell technology to a system-level configuration.

•  MIL-STD Environmental Testing: The prototype shall be subjected to MIL-STD environmental qualification testing covering operational temperature performance and mechanical vibration, demonstrating suitability for deployment across diverse military platforms and environments.

•  Preliminary Safety Qualification: Safety qualification data shall be generated in alignment with applicable MIL-PRF specifications, providing DLA and its program offices with a preliminary compliance baseline for procurement and fielding consideration.

•  Validated Bill of Materials: A validated bill of materials shall be developed demonstrating the domestic manufacturability of the battery system, supporting DLA's interest in building a resilient and accessible domestic supply base for next-generation battery technologies.

•  Commercialization Plan and Manufacturing Roadmap: A detailed commercialization plan and domestic manufacturing roadmap shall be delivered, including cost-per-unit projections at production volume, outlining the pathway for transitioning the technology from prototype to DLA-procurable supply item and broader commercial markets — including heavy-duty vehicle electrification, maritime autonomous systems, and stationary grid-scale energy storage.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

This technology has strong dual-use potential across both defense and commercial markets.

Defense Applications:

•  Man-portable communications systems

•  Unmanned systems (UGV/UAS)

•  Expeditionary sensors and electronic warfare systems

•  Pre-positioned war reserve energy storage

Commercial Applications:

•  Industrial and warehouse robotics

•  Remote sensing and IoT systems

•  Medical and safety-critical portable devices

•  Backup and stationary energy storage systems

•  Maritime and off-grid energy solutions

The emphasis on safety, long storage life, and simplified logistics positions non-lithium technologies as attractive alternatives in markets where lithium-ion risks or transport constraints are limiting factors.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

NAVAIR & NAVSEA Open Topic for Counter Unmanned Air Systems (C-UAS) - SBIR Topic DON26BX03-NP002

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

The DON is seeking proposals for enhancing existing prototypes or concepts to improve C-UAS operations and demonstrate a novel, highly effective, and scalable capability to counter the rapidly proliferating threat of hostile UAS. Adversaries are increasingly leveraging low-cost, autonomous, and often numerous UAS to gain an asymmetric advantage, conduct surveillance, and execute kinetic attacks, posing a significant risk to U.S. and allied forces, critical infrastructure, and mission success. This SBIR Open Topic seeks innovative solutions that can detect, track, identify, and neutralize single and multiple UAS threats in complex operational environments, ultimately providing the warfighter with a decisive overmatch capability to ensure freedom of maneuver and protection of assets.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) present a complex, multi-dimensional challenge that affects everything from individual ship protection to broad strategic operations in the U.S. Navy. The proliferation of cheap, easily accessible, and increasingly sophisticated unmanned systems by both state adversaries and non-state actors has created an urgent and evolving threat landscape. Events in the Middle East, where Navy vessels have been actively engaging drones, have transformed these threats from a theoretical problem into a daily operational reality. The nature of the UAS threat for Naval installations, Naval aircraft, and Naval ships is diverse and rapidly changing, creating a significant challenge for Naval defenses. C-UAS is enabled by secure communication and information technology and includes technologies to Detect, Track, Identify, Assess, and Neutralize single and swarms of UAS from Air, Sea, or Ground leveraging Manned or Unmanned platforms. Primary technology areas of interest are listed below; however, solutions outside these areas will be considered. Please indicate the technology area of interest within the Technical Abstract section of the online proposal Cover Sheet Volume, Volume 1.

• AI-Powered Target Recognition for C-UAS: Develop and train machine learning object detection algorithms for the real-time classification and identification of UAS threats from various sensor inputs, including imagery and RF signatures.

• AI/ML-Enhanced Swarm Detection, Tracking, and Anomalies: Develop an AI/ML-enhanced monitoring framework that integrates advanced object detection with behavioral analysis to detect, track, and predict the collective intent of diverse drone swarms in real time. The framework should evaluate potential risks by establishing behavioral baselines and assessing factors such as flight paths, payloads, and proximity to sensitive areas. By identifying real-time anomalies, such as deviations in trajectory or formation, the framework will serve as a primary trigger for risk escalation and the deployment of protective measures, providing a sophisticated solution for managing the complexities of coordinated swarm behavior.

• Non-Kinetic / Low Kinetic Defeat System for Small UAS: Develop a lightweight system with a focus on minimizing size, weight, and power requirements for integration on Naval platforms for the non-kinetic/low kinetic defeat of Group 1 and 2 UAS at tactically relevant ranges.

• AI/ML for Countering Advanced Signature Management: Develop an AI/ML framework to specifically detect threats employing programmable signature management. This framework will overcome the "target novelty" problem by continuously adapting to previously unseen signature patterns during a mission. The core requirement is for the system to increase its detection accuracy against these evolving threats, providing a decisive countermeasure to adversaries attempting to visually cloak their assets to evade traditional sensors.

PHASE I

The DON is planning to issue multiple Phase I awards for this topic but reserves the right to issue no awards. Each Phase I proposal must include a Base and Option period of performance. The Phase I Base must have a period of performance of four (4) months at a cost not to exceed $75,000. The Phase I Option, if exercised, must have a period of performance of six (6) months at a cost not to exceed $100,000.

Phase I feasibility will describe the existing proposed technology, existing DON system(s) to improve, modifications required, anticipated improvements to existing capabilities, and impacts to current C-UAS recognition, detection, tracking, low-cost non kinetic defeat of Group 2 and below UAS. Results of Phase I will be detailed in a final technical report (Final Report).

Phase I Base deliverables include:

Kick-Off Briefing, due 15 days from start of Base award

Final Report, due 120 days from start of Base award

Initial Phase II Proposal, due 120 days from start of Base award

PHASE II

All Phase I awardees may submit an Initial Phase II proposal for evaluation and selection. The evaluation criteria for Phase II are the same as Phase I (as stated in this CSO). The Phase I Final Report and Initial Phase II Proposal will be used to evaluate the small business concern’s potential to develop new products or adapt commercial products to fill a capability gap, improve performance, or modernize an existing capability for DON, and transition the technology to Phase III. Details on the due date, content, and submission requirements of the Initial Phase II Proposal will be provided by the awarding SYSCOM either in the Phase I contract or by subsequent notification.

The scope of the Phase II effort will be specific to each project but is generally expected to harden, ruggedize, and/or marinize the technology for integration into an operational environment. The outcome is to be a demonstration of a working prototype that can be tested and/or certified. The final report should include a fielding approach (including updated logistics and safety considerations) and a plan for further commercialization (non-DoW).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

C-UAS technologies possess significant dual-use potential for commercial and civil sectors. The same core capabilities for detecting, tracking, identifying, and mitigating drone threats can be adapted to safeguard critical infrastructure such as airports, power grids, and data centers from unauthorized drone incursions. Furthermore, these systems can provide security for large public gatherings at stadiums and arenas, prevent the use of drones for smuggling contraband into correctional facilities, and protect sensitive industrial sites from corporate espionage.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Long-Range Listening Device - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV054

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop and demonstrate a long-range listening device capable of accurately identifying and recording sounds at a distance.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence (CI/HUMINT) Marines perform intelligence operations in support of Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) operations, with a focus on the collection of information and identification of threats posed by hostile organizations, espionage, sabotage, subversion, or terrorism. They require organic, portable capabilities to aid in the collection of information for intelligence reporting to decision makers. The capability to surveil sounds from a distance enhances their toolset. While long-range listening devices exist, innovation is required to meet the Marine Corps' portability, range, target area, accuracy, and recording requirements.

This SBIR topic seeks a small device that can accurately identify and record sounds at a distance.

Requirements for the Long-Range Listening Device

- Capable of effectively identifying and recording sounds at a distance of 200m (Threshold), while maintaining a minimal terminal target area of no more than 2 meters (Threshold).

- Capture and deliver sufficient recorded sound quality and target precision (at range) for a human listener to reliably differentiate voice, mechanical noises, and natural sounds such as wind and water.

- Small enough for an individual person to transport (50lbs or less) and set up from transit case to operational within one hour.

- Non-military in appearance (preferred).

- Able to operate by battery power with a minimum continuous recording time of 24 hours.

PHASE I

Design a concept for a long-range listening device that can meet the performance and size constraints listed in the Description. Demonstrate and validate the feasibility of the concept. Prepare a Phase II development plan with performance goals, key technical milestones, and risk reduction approaches.

PHASE II

Produce prototype hardware for a long-range listening device based on the Phase I work and requirements in the Description. Demonstrate and validate prototype performance in a realistic operational environment.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Though the primary objective is to support the Marine Corps to transition to support CI/HUMINT and force protection operations for the MAGTF. The other military Services and federal law enforcement agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Secret Service, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), are likely to adopt this capability for similar long range surveillance operations. State and local law enforcement and private investigators could also employ the capability for surveillance.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Multi-Band Approach to Target Discovery - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV055

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a target discovery multi-band approach tool for wide-area ocean surveillance, target tracking, and environmental monitoring, to improve operational effectiveness and national security posture.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Commercial Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) providers prioritize high-resolution imagery for applications demanding detailed ground sampling, primarily done in the X-band. This focus caters to markets like agriculture, urban planning, and disaster response. The Navy has a unique need for wide-area maritime surveillance, particularly in the open ocean, for tasks like search and rescue, tracking surface vessels, and monitoring illegal activities. The Navy also has urgent operational requirements for improved maritime domain awareness and more efficient resource allocation. Currently other methods are being used to perform these tasks; however, utilizing SAR would increase capabilities at a lower cost while providing better services for accomplishing the desired tracking methods. The Navy seeks a solution to utilize advancements in commercial space technology by utilizing dual-band SAR. Currently there is not a way for the Navy to utilize these services.

Dual-band approaches offer substantial benefits across various sectors. Dual-band routers and mobile devices can operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, providing greater bandwidth and network capacity within telecommunications. This technology allows devices to switch to less congested frequencies, improving network performance and reliability in areas with high Wi-Fi density. Dual-band approaches can be used to monitor various environmental parameters, such as soil moisture, snow cover, and water quality, allowing for more accurate land cover classification and identification of specific features like vegetation types or mineral deposits. Within the medical field, dual-band imaging techniques can provide more detailed information about tissue composition and bone density, improving diagnostic capabilities for conditions like osteoporosis. Additionally, this approach can be used to enhance target detection and identification by combining data from different frequencies.

The solution sought will add to the current capabilities of searching, tracking, and monitoring to include dual-band SAR systems.

The system will incorporate a secondary band like S-band or C-band alongside the existing X-band capabilities. The system will increase area coverage and use lower frequency bands (S-band or C-band) that have wider beamwidths, enabling larger swaths of ocean to be imaged in a single pass. The increase in area coverage provided by a multi-band approach is not directly quantifiable with a single number as it is highly dependent on the specific bands used, the sensor technology, the platform, and the application. Rather than a percentage increase, it is more accurate to discuss the types of coverage improvements that multi-band approaches offer, such as wider swath width, increased temporal coverage, and coverage in different domains. The benefits will be realized through the synergistic combination of different bands, each contributing unique information and capabilities.

The system must also have improved target detection through utilizing multiple frequencies that will allow for comprehensive target characterization. Different bands interact differently with various materials and sea states, enabling better discrimination among vessels, ice, and ocean features.

The dual-band SAR will provide enhanced environmental monitoring by providing valuable data for oceanographic applications, such as wave height and direction estimation, current monitoring, oil spill detection, flood monitoring, land cover classification, and sea ice monitoring.

Dual-Band performance validation will be accomplished through:

1. Frequency Band Coverage: Verification of operation within the specified frequency bands. Data will include spectral analysis in each band.

1. Simultaneous Operation: Demonstration of concurrent and independent operation in both frequency bands. Data will include recordings of simultaneous signal reception and processing in each band. Interference Mitigation: Assessment of the system's ability to mitigate interference between the two bands and from external sources. Data will include measurements under various interference conditions in each band.

Area Coverage Enhancement will be shown through:

1. Field of View (FOV) Measurement: Quantification of the increased FOV achieved by the dual-band approach compared to a single-band baseline system. Data will include geometric measurements and visualizations of the detectable area.

1. Detection Range: Determination of the maximum detection range in each band and in dual-band mode. Data will include plots of detection probability versus range for various target types and environmental conditions.

1. Target Tracking Accuracy: Evaluation of the system's ability to accurately track targets within the expanded FOV. Data will include measurements of target position error and tracking stability.

1. Open Ocean Search and Tracking Performance will be shown through:

Simulated Search Scenarios: Testing of the prototype in simulated open ocean environments with representative targets and clutter. Data will include detection and tracking performance metrics for various scenarios.

1. Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluation of the system's performance under varying environmental conditions. Data will include performance metrics under different environmental parameters.

Prototype Robustness and Reliability will be shown through:

1. System Stability: Assessment of the system's stability and reliability during extended operation. Data will include continuous operation logs and failure rate analysis.

1. Power Consumption: Measurement of the system's power consumption under various operating conditions.

Navy Requirements Compliance will be shown through:

1. Specific Performance Metrics: Testing against specific Navy-defined performance metrics. Data will include direct measurements and comparisons to the required values. Performance specifications will be provided during Phase I.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a dual-band SAR and demonstrate through modeling and analysis that it feasibly meets the parameters in the Description. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capability to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype dual-band SAR based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate that the prototype meets parameters of the Description. Support Government testing at a Government-provided facility to determine the capability meets the performance goals of Navy. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is possible that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use, which will include scaling up production and integrating with existing Navy systems.

Integrate the dual-band SAR system with Navy systems by collaborating with the Commercial Space Program Office (CSPO), integrating dual-band SAR data into workflows, creating software and algorithms that allow for effective processing and target detection, and provide personnel with training and support for interpreting data.

The objective is to secure long-term contracts with the Navy to provide ongoing access to dual-band SAR data/services with the benefit of marketing the technology to other government agencies in the future.

To obtain successful commercialization and production, the performer will refine and optimize the prototype based on the Navy’s testing and feedback from Phase II and set up manufacturing processes to produce the dual-band SAR system(s) at scale. This is valuable for applications like airport security, border surveillance, and traffic monitoring. The underlying principle is that using two or more frequency bands allows systems to leverage the unique characteristics of each band, enhancing performance, reliability, and overall capabilities.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Optimizing Satellite Imagery across Commercial Vendors - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV056

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a software application that uses a hub and spoke-style negotiating service for commercial satellite data providers (i.e., Imagery Synthetic Aperture Radar/ and Research and Development (SAR/RD)), utilizing their native Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to forecast collection opportunities while optimizing resolution, speed of collection, and cost across multiple providers.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Satellite imagery provides a critical foundation for maritime domain awareness (MDA), allowing the Navy to monitor vast ocean expanses, track vessel movements, and detect unusual activities while also supporting intelligence gathering by providing visual confirmation of suspected activities, revealing adversary capabilities and intentions, and informing strategic decision-making. The Navy primarily relies on its own dedicated reconnaissance assets and a limited number of Government contractors to receive imagery from satellites, which limits the speed of imagery reception and imposes reliance issues on accurate resources. A solution to the limiting factors would be to expand resources to multiple commercial satellite vendors, thus diversifying the sources of information and reducing reliance on single points of failure. The Navy seeks resilience in contested environments where access to a single vendor might be disrupted by weather or other conditions by development of an advanced hub and spoke-style scheduling optimization capability that will forecast opportunities and provide optimizing resolution, speed of collection, and costs across multiple commercial satellite providers. No known commercial capability can meet this need.

The solution application tool must provide a way to combine the following parameters.

1. It must achieve seamless multi-vendor integration that can be used for accessing a single, unified system and dynamically adapt to weather conditions by integrating real-time weather data and predictive models directly into the scheduling process.

2. It must also provide a prioritization capability for time-critical requirements such as tracking a high-value target or responding to a developing crisis.

3. It will optimize cost-efficiency for the scheduling process by selecting the most cost-effective vendor for a given task.

4. It will minimize redundant collections.

5. It will leverage opportunities for data sharing and collaboration among the commercial satellites.

6. It will enhance data fusion and analysis by combining imagery from different sources.

7. It must ensure data security and integrity by incorporating security measures.

The solution will be tested and must meet the following parameters:

1. System Functionality and Performance: includes integration testing, automated tasking and re-tasking, scalability and load testing, and user interface and functionality.

2. Imagery Quality and Usability: includes image resolution and clarity, cloud cover and obstruction analysis, and data fusion and processing.

3. Operational Effectiveness: includes simulated scenarios, field demonstrations, and user feedback/evaluation.

4. Security and Interoperability: includes security testing and interoperability testing.

5. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: includes cost modeling and analysis.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a software hub and spoke-style scheduling optimization capability that feasibly meets the requirements in the Description. Demonstrate feasibility through modeling and analysis. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype software hub and spoke-style scheduling optimization capability. Demonstrate that the prototype meets the parameters in the Description. Support testing of the prototype at a facility provided by the Government to determine it meets the required performance goals as stated in the Description. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is possible that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Assist in testing the capability in the Government test facilities to ensure that the system meets the demanding requirements of the Maritime Targeting Cell-Afloat/Expeditionary (MTC-A/X) program and provides for future development and deployment decisions, ultimately contributing to a more effective and responsive imagery acquisition capability.

Outside of the military, this technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as law enforcement, marine wildlife protection, climate change research, vessel collision avoidance, supply chain management, coordination of rescue/relief efforts, and meteorology. The system could be deployed across multiple domains, improving safety, efficiency, and environmental protection in diverse environments.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Gun Weapon Systems Ammunition Handling and Controls Modernization - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV057

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop an electro-mechanical capability for the sustained tactical loading and unloading of 5-inch/54 caliber naval ammunition.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

A component of both terminal defense and land-attack missions, a MK 34 GWS with the increased reliability and firing rates are expected to increase capability and survivability during missions in contested areas with large (10+) threat swarms. In these scenarios, the effective firing of ammunition to engage targets is essential due to relatively low-cost and on-hand inventory of shipboard ammunition (versus missiles).

Major Caliber Naval Gun Weapon Systems currently cycles conventional ammunition from storage conditions up through firing by way of circa-1960s electro-hydraulic power technology. With a high power-to-weight ratio and simple control circuits, this technology (militarized from the chemical and food machinery industry of the day) transformed ammunition handling systems from a manual to a semi-automated process aboard Navy ships.

The technology is old and has limitations on guided ammunition handling that include high maintenance requirements, obsolescence, complex troubleshooting, exposure to petroleum products, high intensity noise, and sustained operation limited by operator “in-the-loop” actions. There is currently no commercial technology that could solve the need for gun weapon systems ammunition handling and controls modernization for the Navy.

The Navy seeks a solution to modify existing fielded MK 34 Major Caliber Gun Weapon System guns (utilizing the MK 45 MOD 2 & 4 5-Inch Gun System) with automated ammunition loading systems that provide higher reliability (i.e., operational availability of .9 or greater), increased sustained loading (i.e., firing) rate (i.e., greater than 12 rounds per minute), and/or reduced exposure to occupational exposure to petroleum-based hydraulic fluids.

Potential innovations may incorporate electric motor drive technology, industrial control systems or testing system technologies, human-assist technologies, or process optimization. The solution shall be restricted to the MK 45 Gun System Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) profile, requiring no modification to the platform (i.e., ship). All solutions shall utilize Model-Based Engineering (MBE) design principles.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an ammunition loading system for the MK 45 Gun System that meets the parameters in the Description. Establish feasibility through modeling and analysis of the design. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype based on Phase I results. Demonstrate that the prototype will meet the requirements in the Description for each unique area of application within the Gun System. Install the prototype in a Government land-based test Gun System for testing and evaluation. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is possible that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in successfully transitioning the technology to Navy use directly to both in-service and new production MK 45 5-inch Gun Mounts, the main component within the MK 34 Gun Weapon System aboard U.S. Navy Destroyers.

Upon successful transition of this R&D effort to the MK 34 GWS, other military applications of this technology include smaller caliber Gun Weapon Systems (20mm to 57mm). Non-military applications of this technology include industrial operations that require complex material handling and storage, including but not limited to, the automotive industry.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

High-Throughput Embarked Data Transfer - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV058

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a small form factor device (total stowed volume of one cubic foot, including transceiver) and any required software to enable high-throughput data package transmission off embarked Navy platforms.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

U.S. Naval platforms defended by the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) combat management system (CMS) routinely traverse hostile regions of the world threatened by modern anti-ship weapons. SSDS CMS data recorded at sea are transmitted from embarked platforms back to various ashore support organizations for system performance analysis. Results are used in a variety of ways, which include but are not limited to improving CMS functionality, updating tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and ensuring warfighters are trained to defend platforms against modern threats in difficult scenarios. However, providing timely system improvements and guidance depends on timely receipt of large volumes of data for analysis. Existing methods of transmitting these data can be slow and bandwidth constrained, potentially reducing the cadence of this process and delaying the provision of important information.

The Navy seeks a small form factor device (total stowed volume of one cubic foot, including transceiver) and any required software to enable high-throughput data package transmission from embarked Navy platforms. The solution must transmit at least four terabytes of data in 60 seconds (i.e., at a sustained bandwidth of about 67GB/s) over more than 5,000 nautical miles. Currently no Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) solutions are available for use in this manner.

Three SSDS Top Level Requirements (TLRs) are necessary.

• (U) The SSDS Combat System (CS) shall enable extraction of selected data for analysis and playback. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1041]

• (U) The SSDS CS shall provide extracted and recorded data for external processing. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1039]

• (U) The SSDS CS shall provide a method of updating its reference databases on a periodic basis, or on demand. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1207]

While modern techniques in radio, microwave, free space optical (FSO), or other data transmission modalities capable of satisfying these requirements are welcome, proposed solutions must be resilient to highly dynamic and challenging atmospheric or environmental effects on selected modalities and/or waveforms. Additionally, solutions must be capable of deployment on Navy surface combatants in fewer than ten minutes from stowed to transmission ready. Solutions should plan to accept data from COTS data storage devices, including removable disk drives, removable Flash-based storage, and written optical media. Solutions must also be able to integrate with Department of War (DoW) Program of Record (PoR) communications architecture(s). The solution should provide technical details and clearly map those details to desired capability needs. The architecture should also provide high-level details regarding integration with DoW PoR communications architecture(s) or system(s), and should be designed and implemented in accordance with relevant DoW cybersecurity and information assurance (IA) standards.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a small form factor device to enable high-throughput data package transmission and demonstrate feasibly that it meets all the requirements of the Description. Demonstrate feasibility of this concept to meet the conditions outlined in the Description through modeling, analysis, event-driven simulation of software capabilities, or other methods. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype small form factor device to enable high-throughput data package transmission and any required software capabilities that enable integration with the DOW PoR communications architecture(s) based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate that the prototype meets the required parameters in the Description. Support testing by the Government in a relevant environment provided by the Government. Deliver a prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use through system integration and qualification testing. Deliver the technology to support an IWS 80 critical test conducted jointly by the performer and the combat system engineering agent (CSEA), which is expected to take place on a surface combatant equipped with SSDS CMS software, demonstrating the full end-to-end data transmission process between the surface combatant and a Government ashore analysis and support activity.

Dual-use applications to consider include extension of these technologies and capabilities to expeditionary or remote use cases where exceptionally high throughput data package transmissions are required, including but are not limited to disaster recovery and relief, remote research and scientific operations such as polar science missions, and time-critical marine monitoring and regulatory oversight efforts.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Real-time Zero Trust Data and Access Control for Combat Systems - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV059

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a real-time Zero Trust data access control system for combat systems.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

The Navy relies on combat system data for critical decision-making in wartime. This data must be secure to prevent unauthorized access and ensure its integrity. Current security measures are struggling to keep up with evolving threats, making it difficult to guarantee data is only seen by authorized personnel. This vulnerability compromises tactical advantages and risks operational effectiveness. Traditional security approaches are often too slow and inflexible for the dynamic nature of modern naval operations. An answer to this need is not commercially available.

The Navy seeks an adaptive "Zero Trust" data control system. Zero Trust is a security strategy for modern multi-cloud networks. Instead of focusing on the network perimeter, a Zero Trust security model enforces security policies for each individual connection between users, devices, applications and data.

Zero Trust operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify” rather than granting implicit trust to all users inside a network. This granular security approach helps address the cybersecurity risks posed by remote workers, hybrid cloud services, personally-owned devices, and other elements of today’s networks. This goes beyond simply having usernames and passwords. The Navy needs to verify every data access request in near real time, regardless of the user's location or device.

The sought solution requires leveraging both Government and commercial technologies: Advanced Authentication - moving beyond passwords to biometrics, multi-factor authentication, and behavioral analysis; Micro-segmentation - dividing data into smaller highly-controlled compartments to limit the impact of any potential breach (think of it like having separate locked filing cabinets for different types of sensitive information); Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) - detecting anomalous behavior and automatically adapting security measures, which could involve analyzing user access patterns to identify potential threats in real-time; and Blockchain Technology - exploring its potential for secure data logging and access control, ensuring an immutable record of all data transactions.

This Zero Trust system must ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data, regardless of location or device type, which is crucial for maintaining a tactical advantage in future conflicts where information superiority will be paramount. Existing, new, and emerging technologies will be crucial in building this system.

While promising technologies exist, they are not currently integrated or robust enough to meet the Navy's stringent security requirements. The new system must address real-time performance and must ensure access verification suitable for fast-paced combat scenarios. The Navy requires near-instantaneous system access to effectively respond to dynamic and evolving threats.

Furthermore, scalability and integration with complex Navy networks and systems must be ensured, along with system resilience to cyberattacks and the ability to function in degraded environments (i.e., situations where critical infrastructure or communication links may be compromised due to enemy action, natural disasters, or other disruptive events). The solution must develop faster (reduce average authentication time from 15 seconds to 5 seconds) and more efficient authentication methods; implement micro-segmentation techniques to reduce the attack surface by dividing a network into smaller isolated security segments; integrate AI/ML for real-time threat detection and response; and explore and adapt blockchain technology for secure data management. The Navy aims to achieve significant improvements compared to existing systems, including reducing access latency by at least 50%, reducing the risk of unauthorized data access by at least 90%, and streamlining data management processes to reduce administrative overhead by at least 25%.

The developed technology will be evaluated against National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards for compartmented data control, cybersecurity and data integrity (e.g., NIST SP 800-207, Zero Trust Architecture).

The Navy requires the development and integration of an adaptive "Zero Trust" data control system to secure critical combat data. This system must leverage advanced authentication, micro-segmentation, and AI/ML to provide near real-time, verified access for authorized personnel across any device or location. Key performance requirements include reducing authentication time to under five seconds, decreasing the risk of unauthorized data access by at least 90%, and ensuring the system is scalable, resilient in degraded environments, and compliant with NIST standards.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a real-time Zero Trust data access control system for combat systems, specifically addressing the NIST standards associated with compartmented data control. Demonstrate the feasibility of this concept by providing detailed system architecture, including key technologies, algorithms, and data flow diagrams, which must include modeling and simulation to show the system's potential to meet Navy performance goals in the Description. (Note: If modeling and simulation alone cannot sufficiently demonstrate feasibility for specific aspects of the concept, propose and justify the use of subscale prototypes or surrogate systems, outlining their required characteristics and how they will contribute to a comprehensive feasibility assessment. For example, a subscale prototype might demonstrate the performance of a novel authentication mechanism under simulated network conditions, while a surrogate system could represent a simplified version of a combat system component for integration testing.)

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype of the Zero Trust data access control system for combat systems based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate the core functionalities of the proposed system, including authentication, authorization, micro-segmentation, and real-time threat detection. Support testing of the prototype in a representative environment mirroring the complexity and data flow of a combat system network and including simulated cyberattacks and operational scenarios to assess the system's resilience and performance under stress. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Transition the prototype Zero Trust data access control system into a fully operational capability for Navy use within the Maritime Targeting Cell - Afloat/Expeditionary (MTC-A/X) platform. The final product will be a robust, scalable, and secure system capable of managing and controlling access to sensitive combat system data in real-time, adhering to NIST standards and achieving the performance improvements outlined in previous phases.

The core technology developed under this effort has significant potential for dual-use applications in various commercial sectors. The need to protect sensitive data is not unique to the military. Businesses across numerous industries, including finance, healthcare, and energy, face similar challenges in safeguarding proprietary information and customer data from cyber threats and unauthorized access. The Zero Trust security model developed for the Navy can be adapted to protect sensitive corporate data, such as financial records, intellectual property, and personal health information.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Intra-Satellite Communications - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV060

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a hardware capability that communicates rapidly between any commercial satellites to reduce latency of data transmission to track open ocean targets.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

The current model for commercial satellite communication involves each satellite independently communicating directly with ground stations or geostationary relay satellites. This architecture presents a significant challenge for tracking mobile targets, especially across wide areas. Because satellites do not communicate directly with each other, a target moving out of the field of view (FOV) of one satellite requires a time-consuming handoff process involving ground stations. This process introduces latency and inefficiencies, especially when trying to coordinate tracking across multiple satellites, whether from the same constellation or different vendors.

The use of existing commercial satellite infrastructure could provide the capability to mitigate these latencies and inefficiencies without the substantial cost of developing and deploying a dedicated military satellite network.

The Navy seeks a hardware solution to be installed on Government satellites that enables inter-satellite communication (ISC) within commercial satellite constellations. No existing commercial capability can accomplish this requirement. This proposed capability will allow satellites to directly share tracking data and other information and significantly improve the tracking of open ocean targets.

The solution must meet the following parameters:

1. Use Seamless Target Handoff to enable real-time communication between satellites, allowing for seamless tracking of objects as they move across the coverage areas of different satellites, eliminating the need for ground station intervention.

2. Use enhanced Tracking Accuracy and Persistence to direct communication between satellites.

3. Enable faster and more accurate correlation of target data from multiple viewpoints compared to the current time it takes to establish these same parameters.

4. Improve tracking accuracy, particularly for maneuvering targets.

5. Ensure persistent tracking even in challenging environments.

6. Establish an inter-satellite linked network that creates a dynamic and responsive network that adapts to changing operational needs.

7. Enable satellites to quickly share information about new targets or changes in target behavior, enhancing overall situational awareness.

8. Allow direct communication between satellites to reduce the time currently required to transmit critical tracking data to decision-makers.

9. Measure the data transfer latency between satellites under various network load and orbital configurations, as compared to latency experienced with traditional ground-relay communication systems.

10. Evaluate the data throughput capacity of the inter-satellite links and provide a determination of the maximum data rate that can be reliably sustained between satellites.

11. Assess the stability and reliability of the inter-satellite links under operational conditions for distances between satellites and atmospheric interference.

12. Test the effectiveness of routing data efficiently between satellites and route the data according to the most efficient routing protocol to achieve the most efficient routing between satellites, thus managing network congestion.

13. Improve target tracking accuracy achieved by using ISC compared to the accuracy using traditional methods with improved accuracy over the traditional methods. (Note: A baseline of traditional methods will be established to measure against an improvement provided by the solution, which must include the ability to measure the latency and message fidelity efficiency and seamlessness of target handoff between satellites including any associated loss of tracking data.)

14. Provide for assessing the coverage area of interest (AOI) footprint within the satellite pass and provide a determination of the ability of the network to maintain continuous tracking of targets moving across large areas.

15. Capable of simultaneously tracking multiple targets in accordance with the Commander’s intent, including targets with varying speeds and trajectories.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an intra-satellite communication hardware capability. Demonstrate feasibility through modeling and simulation showing the parameters in the Description can be achieved. Compare the cost of implementing and operating the intra-satellite communication system to the cost of alternative solutions, such as reliance solely on ground-based tracking systems. Assess the return on investment (ROI) achieved by leveraging commercial satellite infrastructure and implementing intra-satellite communication. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype intra-satellite communication hardware capability based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate that the prototype meets the parameters in the Description and the performance goals of Navy requirements. Support the Navy’s comprehensive testing to validate the effectiveness of the system using evaluation metrics to quantify the system’s performance. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology for use in a wartime environment to track objects of interest. Assist the Navy in testing the technology’s performance in actual conditions, which must be validated by demonstrating that the system meets the demanding requirements of modern naval operations via system integration and interoperability via operational testing in simulated scenarios and field testing.

Once operations of the system have provided feedback on its usability, effectiveness, and suitability for operational needs, the system will be used to inform future development and deployment decisions, ultimately providing concrete evidence of the system's capabilities and its potential to transform naval operations.

Outside the military, this technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as law enforcement, marine wildlife protection, vessel collision avoidance, supply chain management, coordination of rescue/relief efforts, and meteorology and space. The system could be deployed across multiple domains, improving safety, efficiency, and environmental protection in diverse environments.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Predictive Movement for Object Oriented Tracking - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV061

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a capability using Artificial Intelligence (AI) that investigates, tracks, and assigns priority for future state forecasting such as Geospatial-temporal Pattern of Life Analysis and change detection for the Maritime Targeting Cell (MTC).

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Maritime Targeting Cell is a high-tech “fusion” node, which receives massive amounts of data from diverse sources (e.g., satellites, sensors), making it difficult to process and interpret effectively. Current tracking relies heavily on manual methods, which can overwhelm staff and lead to inefficient resource allocation. They are essentially trying to find the proverbial needle in a haystack. Without an automated system, it is difficult to prioritize which objects require immediate attention, which can lead to critical threats being overlooked.

The Maritime Targeting Cell has a need to increase readiness for potential conflicts with adversaries. There are currently a large number of objects that need to be tracked, both above and below the surface of the ocean, across the globe. These objects include U.S. Navy Ships, other U.S. Government vessels, allied and partner Naval vessels, commercial vessels, adversary vessels, U.S. and other nations’ submarines, underwater drones and sensors, and aircraft. The Navy needs to utilize efficient tracking methods for large numbers of objects so future state forecasting, pattern of life, and change detection can enable analysts to investigate targets, maintain track custody, and assign priority to objects detected.

As more sensors come online, the data volume will only increase, exacerbating existing problems. The current manual processes simply cannot scale and as the Navy’s specific requirements are unique and complex, off-the-shelf tracking software is insufficient. Currently no existing commercial technology can meet this need.

The Navy envisions an AI-driven solution that aims to address these challenges by automating key aspects of the tracking process.

The solution must meet the following parameters:

1. It must use AI-powered tracking algorithms to process sensor data, identify and track objects, and predict their future movements.

2. It must use Automated Prioritization in which AI is used for activity prediction and Pattern of Life (POL) analysis to assign a priority level to each tracked object, allowing analysts to focus on the most important targets first.

3. It must use Predictive Forecasting and Change Detection to analyze historical data and current behavior and predict future object states and quickly identify deviations from expected patterns, enhancing situational awareness.

4. It must contain Hierarchical Target Management to allow the system to maintain track custody of all objects, but present them to analysts in a prioritized hierarchy, allowing for efficient resource allocation.

5. It will need to have Enhanced Scalability so as new sensors are added, the AI can seamlessly integrate the additional data without requiring a proportional increase in manpower.

6. It will need to have Improved Response Time through automating analysis and prioritization to accelerate the decision-making process, enabling faster responses to developing situations.

In essence, the proposed AI solution aims to transform the Navy from a reactive overwhelmed center to a proactive highly efficient hub for maritime domain awareness, which will empower the Navy to better manage the vast amount of data it collects and make more informed decisions, ultimately enhancing national security.

Evaluation metrics will be used to quantify the system’s performance, including accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score (a balanced measure of precision and recall), processing time, false positive rate, and false negative rate. These metrics will measure how often the system correctly identifies and tracks objects, the proportion of correctly identified objects out of all identified and all actual objects, a balance of precision and recall, the data processing time, and the rates of incorrect object identification and missed object identification.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an AI-driven maritime tracking system that automates data processing, object identification and tracking, and threat prioritization. Demonstrate the feasibility of this concept through modeling and simulation, showing how the proposed algorithms can achieve the required levels of accuracy in object identification, tracking, and prioritization using simulated sensor data representing realistic maritime scenarios. Ensure that this simulation demonstrates (1) the concept's ability to handle increasing data loads that reflect the Navy's future needs, (2) improved response times compared to current manual methods, and (3) the feasibility of hierarchical target management to prioritize objects based on predicted threat level. (Note: While full prototypes are not expected in Phase I, performers might need to develop subscale prototypes or surrogates of specific AI modules, such as predictive forecasting or POL analysis components.)

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype AI-driven maritime tracking tool based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate the core functionalities of the prototype, including AI-driven tracking, prioritization, predictive forecasting and change detection, hierarchical target management, enhanced scalability, and improved response time. Support rigorous prototype testing using simulated and/or real-world maritime sensor data and evaluation on the performance against metrics defined in the Description, including accuracy, prioritization effectiveness, and response time improvement. (Note: If a full prototype is cost-prohibitive, advanced modeling and simulation using representative data can be used to demonstrate the technology's potential.) Ensure that the prototype meets key requirements including specified accuracy levels, prioritization thresholds, and demonstrable improvements in response time and scalability.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use. Support testing to ensure that the system meets the demanding requirements of modern naval operations via operational testing in simulated scenarios and field testing to assess its performance in actual conditions.

Once operators of the system have provided feedback on its usability, effectiveness, and suitability for operational needs, the system will be used to inform future development and deployment decisions, ultimately contributing to an enhanced scalability and improved response time.

Outside of the military, this technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, such as law enforcement, marine wildlife protection, climate change research, vessel collision avoidance, supply chain management, coordination of rescue/relief efforts, and meteorology. The system could be deployed across multiple domains, improving safety, efficiency, and environmental protection in diverse environments.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Secure Tasking of Commercial Assets - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV062

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a capability for intercommunication between Government and commercial satellites.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

Maritime Targeting Cell-Afloat/Expeditionary (MTC-A/X)’s purpose is to provide weapons-quality tracks to support over-the-horizon targeting by using multi-intelligence capabilities across all domains and deliver direct sensor data downlink capability. To maintain a tactical advantage, the Navy requires the ability to task commercial satellites at Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)/Information Level-5 (IL-5) and Secret Level (IL-6) to ensure tasking is not discoverable by adversaries.

The Navy could task commercial satellites for missions requiring secure handling of sensitive information, like targeting; however, commercial satellite providers typically do not offer the security levels required for classified Government operations [CUI impact levels (IL)-5 or Secret IL-6]. They could modify existing military systems for commercial use but that is prohibitively expensive and impractical for commercial vendors. Nothing that is commercially available can fulfill this communications need.

The Navy needs a capability to securely task commercial satellites at the required classification levels. This requires a solution leveraging both Government and commercial technologies, such as implementing end-to-end encryption within existing commercial tasking interfaces, secure data transfer protocols, and blockchain-based solutions for verifying the authenticity and integrity of tasking requests. The performer must evaluate the feasibility of integrating commercial security technologies like secure cloud platforms and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and explore emerging technologies such as quantum-resistant cryptography for enhanced long-term security.

The solution must establish a baseline for data security with an initial focus on establishing secure methods for tasking commercial satellites at the required CUI levels. Subsequent efforts will focus on solutions that demonstrate measurable reductions in tasking latency - measuring the speed and efficiency of the tasking process, verifying a targeted 90% reduction in tasking time compared to current methods, for which standard tasking can take up to 14 days from order to delivery. Seamless integration across different cybersecurity requirements will further contribute to more timely tasking, increased tasking opportunities, and a stronger overall cybersecurity posture.

The developed technology will be evaluated in a simulated environment against National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards for secure communications and data handling at the specified classification levels. This performer will also leverage existing Navy contracts, such as those managed by the Commercial Space Program Office (CSPO), to ensure rapid transition and widespread adoption across the DoW.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a secure satellite tasking system that meets the parameters in the Description. Demonstrate the feasibility of this concept by providing a detailed concept design, including system architecture, security protocols, integration plans with existing commercial tasking interfaces, and modeling and simulation to show the system's potential to meet Navy performance goals in the Description. (Note: If modeling and simulation alone cannot sufficiently demonstrate feasibility for specific aspects of the concept, propose and justify the use of simulations or subscale demonstrations to illustrate key aspects of the concept, particularly related to security and integration. For example, a simulation demonstrating the secure transfer of encrypted tasking data between a mock commercial interface and a simulated secure government network would be beneficial.)

Specify the number and delivery schedule of any prototype articles provided to the Government for testing in the Phase II SOW based on the specific approach proposed by the performer.

The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype secure satellite tasking system based on the results of Phase I. Demonstrate the core functionality of the secure tasking system, including secure communication channels, data encryption/decryption, authentication and authorization mechanisms, and integration with representative commercial tasking interfaces.

(Note: If full prototype development is deemed too costly within the Phase II budget, the contractor may propose alternative evaluation methods, such as detailed simulations or analytical modeling, to demonstrate the prototype meets Navy performance goals. These alternative methods must be clearly justified and provide sufficient evidence to support the claims.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the secure satellite tasking system to operational use within the Navy. The prototype will be developed and integrated within the Maritime Targeting Cell program and seamlessly integrated with commercial satellite providers.

Support the transition process by refining and hardening the system: addressing any remaining bugs or vulnerabilities identified during Phase II testing and optimizing performance for operational use; developing comprehensive documentation and training materials to provide Navy personnel with the necessary resources to operate and maintain the system effectively; providing ongoing technical support; and assisting the Navy with system integration, deployment, and troubleshooting.

While developed for military applications, this secure satellite tasking technology has significant potential for dual use in the commercial sector. Many industries rely on satellite imagery but face challenges protecting sensitive or proprietary information. This technology could be adapted to provide secure tasking and data transfer for secure commercial applications and safeguard proprietary information from unauthorized access. Other potential applications include precision agriculture to protect sensitive crop data from competitors; environmental monitoring to secure data related to pollution or resource exploration; and urban planning to protect sensitive infrastructure information.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Anomalous Behavior Detection and Alerting for Congested Maritime Environments - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV063

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a capability for automated Pattern of Life (PoL) analysis in congested maritime environments.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

U.S. Navy platforms defended by the Ship Self-Defense System (SSDS) combat system frequently transit maritime regions of the world that are congested with oceangoing vessels and aircraft traffic, which may include fishing vessels, tankers and cargo container ships, commercial airliners, or hostile entities such as enemy surface combatants or anti-air warfare (AAW) threats. In those congested maritime environments, enemies may attempt to hide within the noise of maritime congestion in an effort to gain initiative and surprise against U.S. Navy forces. There are some information sources at the disposal of Ship’s Force to detect adversaries. For example, both surface vessels (using Automatic Identification System (AIS) or aircraft (using Automatic Dependent Surveillance – Broadcast (ADS-B)) publicly broadcast certain types of information about themselves, including but not limited to Global Positioning System (GPS) location, speed, altitude, destination, and other identifying information as appropriate. However, not all regions have requirements that all traffic must broadcast this information, and actors conducting nefarious or illegal activity have been known to disable AIS and ADS-B systems on their craft. Non-cooperative methods to determine the intent of these craft have been developed in response to the risks posed by uncompliant vessels or aircraft, including PoL analysis. Here, longitudinal records of typical traffic patterns are established over time, then compared against real-time observations to identify anomalous – and therefore potentially nefarious or threatening – activity that is out of family from those records, such as deviation from established vessel traffic separation schemes (TSS), frequently-traveled flight paths or air corridors, or fishing activity in unexpected areas, among others. Anomalous contacts can then be flagged for increased scrutiny by human operators or other actions. However, detailed monitoring and analysis can be difficult for human operators and watchstanders to do for an entire transit duration or extended stay within a congested environment. For example, it requires close attention to detail over long periods of time, which can induce attentional fatigue and missed indicators by operators. Additionally, in the absence of digital historical records and/or when traversing new areas, Ship’s Force may have no historical collective knowledge of maritime traffic patterns against which to compare observations. The safety-critical nature of this task, coupled with the challenge it poses for humans, suggests a unique and important target for automation. Currently no commercial answer to the problem exists.

The Navy seeks the capability to analyze PoL behaviors exhibited by nearby maritime traffic for various regions of the world. Solutions must comprehensively explore all traffic (surface and air) within a 360-degree coverage area around a notional ship, using one or more PoL methods to identify targets that are anomalous and potentially threatening to the ship. Solutions must leverage common sources of maritime traffic data and include at a minimum AIS, ADS-B, and notional air or surface contacts detected by notional radars; other data sources can be specified, but must be realistic for Navy ships to collect, then identify and describe. Tracks or conditions of interest identified by the system must generate alerts for operators via decision support systems or other capabilities that are developed alongside automated analysis and detection logic. Selected alerting content and methods are flexible, but at a minimum must include system track numbers, select descriptive details of the track, provide an explanation of the machine reasoning for the alert that was generated, and compile a machine confidence assessment of the conclusion.

Proposed solutions must (1) function without large volumes of historical traffic patterns and trends stored within the combat system’s computers or databases, (2) include a notional plan for future integration with the SSDS combat system and its operator displays, and (3) be accompanied by an architecture that specifies at a minimum: sources of input data required for analysis; communications and/or data exchange pathways to support analysis needs; specific points of integration between algorithm(s) or method(s) used to perform PoL analysis and selected data sources; and operator alerting and information dissemination capabilities that could integrate with SSDS displays.

Proposals should address data volume concerns associated with storing large PoL databases and describe methods to execute the proposal without requiring significant additional data storage devices and without limiting PoL data to temporary “region-specific” data holdings that must be expunged as ship Operating Areas (OPAREAs) change.

Improved methods of automated PoL analysis that can identify potentially threatening sea or air contacts and communicate findings to watchstanders would significantly improve safety conditions for SSDS vessels transiting these regions.

Three SSDS Top Level Requirements (TLRs) would be supported by this investigation.

• The SSDS CS shall generate and display the [Common Tactical Picture] to support command situation awareness and combat coordination. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1222]

• The SSDS CS shall provide a means by which operators are notified and are able to participate in the resolution of identification conflicts. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1492]

• The SSDS CS shall determine ID and classification with whatever data is available. [SSDS_CS_TLR-1486]

Work should include contacts and composite track data that are produced organically by SSDS combat system sensors, as well as architectural updates that specify the methods or approaches by which PoL analysis will be performed using a fusion of maritime tracks and organic SSDS composite tracks.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for an automated PoL analysis method in congested maritime environments meeting the requirements in the Description. Assess feasibility through modeling, simulation, or other means. Ensure that selected methods are explainable. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and capabilities description to build a prototype solution in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a prototype automated PoL analysis method in congested maritime environments. Demonstrate functionality and performance of a full 360-degree coverage capable of meeting realistic operational SSDS use cases and needs for specific regions, as well as a detailed plan for integrating this solution with SSDS. (Note: To support successful Phase II efforts, the Acquisition Office will provide information regarding the SSDS architecture, U.S. Navy consoles and display environment capabilities, and world regions of interest.) Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see the Description for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the technology to Navy use through system integration and qualification testing for the prototype hardware capability developed in Phase II. Deliver the prototype to support an IWS 80 critical experiment conducted jointly by the performer and the combat system engineering agent (CSEA), to take place in a live environment with tactical SSDS combat system software. (Note: The transition will require integration of the prototype into SSDS.)

Dual-use applications to consider include but are not limited to sea- or land-based private or third-party transportation, shipping, and logistics applications; personnel security; event security; and environmental and resource extraction regulatory monitoring.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below:

Terminal Defense Weapon System Coordinator - SBIR Topic DON26BZ03-NV064

Funding Amount:

Est. $315,000

Deadline to Apply:

July 22nd, 2026

Objective:

Develop a Terminal Defense System Weapon System Coordinator (TDSWC) for terminal defense system weapon system engagements.

ITAR:

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

Description:

PEO IWS 11 is responsible for providing terminal defense weapon systems for ship self-defense against Anti-Ship Missile (ASM), Helicopter, Aircraft, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and Surface Threats. The program’s portfolio includes Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM), Close-in Weapon System (CIWS), Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (CUAS), Directed Energy, and Guns.

Ship combat systems direct and manage terminal defense weapon system engagements so terminal defense weapon system upgrades require an update to the ship combat system. In addition, ship combat system weapon direction and management require complex algorithms in the ship combat system plus a detailed understanding of weapon systems’ performance.

Ship combat system weapon system updates are part of the combat system’s major releases. This takes years of development, followed by years of fielding.

The Navy seeks a capability that decouples weapon system upgrades from ship combat system updates and allows terminal defense systems to develop and field updates within two months. Currently no existing commercial technology can meet this need. The solution will move the ship combat system terminal defense weapon system responsibilities for managing upgrades and weapon system coordinating engagements from the combat system to the weapon system coordinator in real-time without latency.

Development of the weapon system coordinator solution must use model-based system engineering (MBSE) for documenting requirements, developing the architecture, and testing the behavior. The coordinator shall use Artificial Intelligence (AI) for engagement coordination by implementing AI heuristics and machine learning. The MBSE model shall include a code generator that will translate the model to an executable program that can be run on a RED HAT LINUX platform. The coordinator will include a combat system interface for managing combat system commands as well as cyber secure interfaces to each terminal defense weapon system.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and NASEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

PHASE I

Develop a concept for a TDSWC concept using MBSE. Demonstrate feasibility in meeting the weapon system coordinator requirements using modelling, simulation, and analysis. The Phase I Option, if exercised, will include the initial design specifications and a capabilities description to build a prototype in Phase II.

PHASE II

Develop a TDSWC prototype based on results of the Phase I. Demonstrate the prototype meets the Description parameters by integrating the executable software into a Navy-provided simulation testbed that complies with the combat system and terminal defense systems interface requirements. Verify the prototype meets the defined requirements and architectures. Deliver the prototype to the Navy.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS

Support the Navy in transitioning the prototype TDSWC model and executable to a Navy appointed warfare center for future development and maintenance. Provide oversight during the transition of the TDSWC. Assist the Navy in product field testing, implementing upgrades, and porting the executable to different computing platforms.

Successful use of MBSE to document requirements, architecture and executable is desirable for products that can be used on a variety of computing platforms. The design and behavior of the product remains the same while the implementation of the product changes based on the computing platform’s characteristics (physical configuration, manufacturer, instruct set architecture, etc.). As such, this technology is useful for all computing architectures in corporations.

Who will win?

If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.

Who is eligible to apply?

Any company that meets the following criteria:

• For-profit company

• U.S.-owned and controlled.

• 500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)

How Can BW&CO Help?

1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.

2) Proposal strategy and review.

3) Administrative & compliance support.

Request to talk with a member of our team by completing the form below: