SBIR Next-Generation LWIR Seeker Cost Reduction and Performance Enhancement for cUAS Applications
AI Analysis
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has awarded Opto-Knowledge Systems a $2.497M contract to develop a next-generation, low-cost Longwave Infrared (LWIR) seeker for counter-UAS applications. The project aims to significantly reduce the cost per shot to ~$50k, integrating with the existing APKWS program. The initial contract value doubled after the initial award, indicating increased confidence or scope.
Key Takeaways
- Contractor: Opto-Knowledge Systems received a Phase II SBIR award.
- Funding Agency: Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
- Technology: Development of a dual-mode SAL/LWIR seeker for cUAS.
- Cost Target: $50,000 per shot, significantly lower than current systems like Raytheon's Coyote.
- Integration: Designed to work with existing APKWS launchers and units for rapid deployment.
Why It Matters
The US Air Force is actively seeking more affordable and reliable cUAS solutions, highlighted by the limited success of the Coyote system in Syria. This contract signals a shift towards leveraging existing platforms (APKWS) with improved seeker technology to address the growing drone threat. Success could lead to wider adoption of lower-cost, more effective cUAS capabilities.
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FA864924P1014
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Overview
Government Description
Next-generation longwave infrared seeker cost reduction and performance enhancement for counter unmanned aerial system applications
Awardee
Opto-Knowledge Systems
Awarding / Funding Agency
Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) [DoD - USAF - AFMC]
NAICS
541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
PSC
AC32 - National Defense R&D Services; Defense-Related Activities; Applied Research
Place of Performance
Torrance, CA 90502 United States
Pricing
Fixed Price
Set Aside
Small Business Set Aside - Total (SBA)
Extent Competed
Full And Open Competition After Exclusion Of Sources
Est. Average FTE
7
Related Opportunity
None
Analysis Notes
Amendment Since initial award the Potential Award value has increased 100% from $1,248,614 to $2,497,228.
Opto-Knowledge Systems was awarded Purchase Order FA864924P1014 (FA8649-24-P-1014) worth up to $2,497,228 by Air Force Research Laboratory in August 2024. The contract has a duration of 1 year 9 months and was awarded through SBIR Topic Direct-to-Phase-II Open Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual- Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need with a Small Business Total set aside with NAICS 541715 and PSC AC32 via direct negotiation acquisition procedures with 618 bids received.
SBIR Details
Research Type
Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) Phase II
Title
Next-Generation LWIR Seeker Cost Reduction and Performance Enhancement for cUAS Applications
Related Solicitation
Direct-to-Phase-II Open Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual- Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need
Abstract
The U.S. Department of the Air Force (DAF) requires advanced counter unmanned aerial system (cUAS) technologies to combat the exponentially growing threat of UAS in the battlefield. Existing systems are notoriously expensive and unreliable, which was recently seen with the employment of the Raytheon Coyote system for force protection in Syria where just two (2) elements of an incoming drone swarm were shot down.[1] To address this critical gap for force protection for the DAF, we are proposing the development of the Advanced Lethality System (ALS) which is a lowest cost in-class (just $50k/shot) dual-mode SAL/LWIR seeker solution for the existing and fielded APKWS program of record. The ALS solution will use existing program of record launchers and APKWS units that are in circulation, which will lead to streamlined deployment of this solution ac