Aluminum Scandium Nitride and Aluminum Scandium Nitride/Gallium Nitride Epitaxial Technology for RF Devices
ID: AF252-D003Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Aluminum Scandium Nitride and Aluminum Scandium Nitride/Gallium Nitride Epitaxial Technology for RF Devices

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: USAF

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTH

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/topics/11898

Additional Information

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/submissions/solicitation-documents/active-solicitations
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Air Force, is seeking proposals for the development of aluminum scandium nitride (AlScN) and aluminum scandium nitride/gallium nitride (AlScN/GaN) epitaxial technology aimed at enhancing radio frequency (RF) devices. The objective is to create a growth system and process capable of producing high-quality AlScN layers with a scandium concentration greater than 18%, which are essential for next-generation RF transistors that will improve radar and communication systems. This technology is critical for achieving higher current, lower losses, and improved reliability in RF devices, which are vital for maintaining spectral dominance in military applications. Proposals are due by May 21, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the provided link: SBIR Topic.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    Affordable Ka-Band Metamaterial-Based Electronically Scanned Array Radar for Test and Training -
    DOD
    The Department of the Army is seeking innovative solutions for low-cost Ka-Band radar systems through advancements in metamaterials, aimed at emulating threat representative systems for the Test and Evaluation community. The primary objective is to develop a metamaterial-based Ka-Band radar that mimics the performance of an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) while targeting a production cost of $300,000. This technology is crucial for various applications, including environmental monitoring, civil security, maritime surveillance, and healthcare imaging. Interested parties can submit Phase I proposals with a budget of up to $250,000 for a six-month performance period, with the application due by December 31, 2025. For more details, visit the solicitation agency's website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Far Forward Manufacturing of CBRN Sensors -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking proposals for the Far Forward Manufacturing (FFM) of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) sensors, as outlined in solicitation number CBD254-008. The objective is to accelerate the production of compact and economical CBRN sensors that require minimal logistical footprints, enabling real-time threat detection for warfighters while reducing reliance on complex supply chains through advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing and biomanufacturing. This initiative is critical for ensuring force readiness and adaptability in modern warfare, with potential dual-use applications in commercial sectors like clinical diagnostics and environmental sensing. Interested parties should note that Phase I proposals are due by December 31, 2025, with potential funding of up to $500,000 available for successful Phase II performers who secure additional non-SBIR/STTR funding.
    Pulsed High-power Laser Accelerators to Study radiation Hardening (PHLASH) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, through DARPA, is seeking proposals for the Pulsed High-power Laser Accelerators to Study Radiation Hardening (PHLASH) program, which aims to develop a compact, scalable laser driver for electron beam generation to enhance radiation testing of microelectronic systems intended for space applications. The primary objective is to demonstrate a prototype laser driver capable of generating 50-MeV electron beam energies at a pulse repetition rate exceeding 100 Hz, with a design that can be scaled to 100 GeV at 1 kHz, all within a compact footprint of less than 250 m³. This initiative addresses the limitations of existing heavy-ion accelerator facilities by leveraging Laser Wakefield Acceleration (LWFA) technology, which allows for high-energy electron packet generation over significantly shorter distances. Proposals are due by December 31, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the official solicitation link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Novel Technologies for CWMD and Related Threats - Open Topic -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative solutions through its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop novel technologies for detecting radiological and nuclear threats without the use of specialized sensors. The objective is to utilize signals from existing general-purpose military hardware, commercially available devices, and public data sources to enhance the detection capabilities for weapons of mass destruction (WMD). This initiative is crucial for overcoming the challenges associated with the high costs and lengthy timelines of developing new military hardware for WMD detection. The project is structured in three phases: Phase I focuses on identifying feasible use cases and developing a course of action; Phase II involves building and testing a model or prototype; and Phase III aims to refine the technology for broader dual-use applications in defense, government, and commercial sectors. The solicitation is currently in pre-release status, with an open date set for December 10, 2025, and a close date of December 31, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the DOD SBIR website.
    Novel Sampling Tickets for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) of Chemical and Biological (CB) Threat Materials -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of novel sampling tickets designed for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) to detect chemical and biological (CB) threat materials. The primary objective is to create physically semi-porous, flexible coupons that enhance the sensitivity and selectivity of existing handheld Raman detectors, which currently face challenges in identifying trace amounts of hazardous substances from various surfaces in operational environments. This initiative is crucial for improving the capabilities of military units in detecting a range of threats, including nerve agents and toxins, thereby enhancing battlefield safety and operational effectiveness. Interested parties should note that the solicitation number is CBD254-006, with a release date of September 3, 2025, and proposals are due by December 31, 2025. For more information, please visit the DOD SBIR website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Acoustic-based UAS Rainbow Oscillation Refraction Architecture (AURORA) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Special Operations Command (SOCOM), is seeking innovative research and development proposals for the Acoustic-based UAS Rainbow Oscillation Refraction Architecture (AURORA) under the SBIR program. The objective is to create an acoustic-based communication system that enables small uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) within a swarm to communicate and determine their relative positions using sound generated by their propellers as a carrier wave. This technology is crucial for military applications where multiple drones operate in close proximity without relying on GPS or radio frequencies, enhancing their operational effectiveness and safety. Interested parties should prepare to submit their proposals by December 31, 2025, with the feasibility study phase (Phase I) focusing on system design options and achievable data rates, followed by prototype development in Phase II. For more details, visit the solicitation agency's website at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Complex Geometries for Extended Wear Respirators Towards Regenerable Particulate Matter Protection -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense is seeking innovative solutions through the SBIR program to develop a rugged, 3D-printable, PFAS-free particulate filtration impactor system for extended-wear respirators in military operational environments. The objective is to create a regenerable filtration system that effectively reduces particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) exposure, addressing current limitations such as discomfort, clogging, and single-use constraints, while ensuring minimal breathing resistance during aerobic activities. This technology is crucial for protecting warfighters from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases associated with high airborne particulate levels. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on December 10, 2025, with applications due by December 31, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Silencing with Acoustic Rainbow Emitters (SWARE) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Special Operations Command (SOCOM), is seeking innovative research and development proposals for a low-cost Acoustic Rainbow Emitter (ARE) aimed at significantly reducing the acoustic signature of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). The primary objective is to create an ARE that can redirect and alter the frequencies of a UAS's acoustic emissions, achieving at least a 50% reduction in audibility, while ensuring the system is adaptable to various UAS platforms and maintains a low visual signature. This technology is crucial for enhancing the stealth capabilities of Special Operations Forces during tactical operations. Interested parties should note that the solicitation number is SOCOM254-008, with a release date of September 3, 2025, and applications due by December 31, 2025. For further details, please visit the official solicitation link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.
    Affordable IR Sensors for Proliferated LEO Missile Tracking Constellation -
    DOD
    The United States Space Force (USSF), through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is seeking innovative solutions for affordable midwave infrared (MWIR) sensor technologies aimed at enhancing missile detection and tracking capabilities in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The primary objective is to develop a complete sensor prototype that demonstrates high sensitivity to missile plumes, radiation tolerance for extended LEO operations, and compatibility with small satellite platforms, all while achieving significant cost reductions through innovative materials and manufacturing processes. This initiative is critical for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) and other next-generation missile warning constellations, ensuring effective defense against advanced missile threats. Interested parties should note that this is a Direct-to-Phase-II effort, with proposals due by December 31, 2025, and must demonstrate prior feasibility studies and a clear plan for integration with U.S. Department of Air Force operations.
    Li-ion 6T Battery Focused Open Topic -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking innovative solutions from small businesses through the SBIR program for the Li-ion 6T Battery Focused Open Topic. This initiative aims to address critical technical challenges related to MIL-PRF-32565 Li-ion 6T batteries, including the development of power beaming or wireless charging devices, advanced thermal runaway and fire mitigating materials, automated battery maintenance tools, and compact devices for combining batteries of various specifications for higher voltage applications. These batteries are vital for enhancing military fuel efficiency and operational capabilities, and the program offers funding of up to $250,000 for Phase I proposals, which are due by December 31, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.