DIRECT TO PHASE II: Resonant Cavity Infrared Detector Incorporating an Avalanche Photodiode Active Region

The Navy is seeking a Direct to Phase II SBIR solution to develop and demonstrate a highly sensitive mid-wave infrared detector that combines resonant cavity infrared detector architecture with an avalanche photodiode active region. The work calls for prototype APD-based RCID arrays with integrated electrical contacts, test structures, bias and output circuitry, cooler vessels for operation at temperature, and test data sufficient for independent evaluation, with at least four prototypes to be produced and delivered to the Naval Research Laboratory. The design must support wavelength selection by design and process across the usable MWIR band outside atmospheric absorption sub-bands, place multiple tuned detectors on the same substrate, and is expected to achieve a sensitivity increase of at least two orders of magnitude over state-of-the-art nBn detectors; the effort may become classified and requires U.S.-owned and operated firms able to maintain secret clearance eligibility. The opportunity is pre-release, proposals are due June 24, 2026 at 4:00 PM ET, and Phase I proposals will not be accepted.