Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments

The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army, is seeking proposals for the development of an underwater sensing system optimized for surf zone environments as part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to create a portable underwater sensor capable of detecting bathymetry and underwater hazards in shallow, bubbly conditions, which are critical for safe maritime operations and logistics support in contested regions. This technology is particularly important for enhancing situational awareness during over-the-shore operations, where traditional sensing methods are hindered by environmental factors such as surf zone bubbles. Proposals for Phase I are invited with a funding limit of $250,000 for a six-month performance period, with a submission deadline of August 20, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.