Compact UUV Borne LiDAR System
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
SOCOM, through the DoD SBIR program, is seeking a compact, low-cost LiDAR system for UUV-based undersea terrain clearance and inspection, with emphasis on rapid surveying in ports, harbors, and confined waters. The effort covers a feasibility study and then prototype development of a man-portable, 360-degree scanning LiDAR package that can integrate sonar data, fit modular UUV frames, and support diver-borne or UUV-borne use. The preferred design is self-contained and open-architecture, ideally around 5 inches maximum outer diameter, with performance spanning shallow water and littoral environments through depths up to 200 meters; ITAR/EAR restrictions also apply. Applications were due June 3, 2026 at 16:00 UTC, and the topic opened May 6, 2026.