Far Forward Manufacturing of CBRN Sensors
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The Department of Defense’s Chemical and Biological Defense Program is seeking SBIR proposals for far forward manufacturing of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear sensors. The goal is to enable on-demand, point-of-need production of robust sensors with limited logistical burden so warfighters can detect and transmit near real-time threat awareness. Phase I calls for proof of concept for a functional sensor that detects a single threat, indicates safety versus hazard levels, detects within five minutes, and can be manufactured within a footprint smaller than one CONEX box; Phase II focuses on finalizing production processes, demonstrating a 24-hour production run of at least 20 sensors, and performing shelf-life assessments. The topic also notes preference for a four-month Phase I period of performance and describes possible enhanced Phase II funding tied to matching non-SBIR/STTR support. Topic CBD254-008 under solicitation 25.4 opens April 13, 2026, and the application is due May 13, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. local time.