The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking proposals for the development of a lightweight, droppable chemical warfare agent sensor as part of its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to create an ultra-compact device capable of real-time detection, identification, and geolocation of chemical threats, which can be deployed by uncrewed systems or individual personnel in contaminated environments. This sensor will enhance operational capabilities for Special Operations Forces by providing rapid hazard awareness and integrating seamlessly with existing systems like ATAK for real-time data visualization. The solicitation is set to open on June 25, 2025, with proposals due by July 23, 2025, and further details can be found at the DOD SBIR website.

## Description

CBRN Technical Forces employ the Joint Chemical Agent Detector (JCAD) to provide individual CWA detection and alerting in real-time during operations in potentially contaminated environments. However, given the JCAD’s weight, power, and lack of native mesh networking capability, it is not an optimal sensor to employ from individuals or uncrewed systems [1]. The droppable chemical agent detection sensor is an ultra-compact, low SWaP, device designed to provide real-time detection, identification, and mapping of chemical warfare agents and VOC’s in operational environments. Engineered for deployment by aerial or ground uncrewed vehicles and individual personnel, the sensors provide rapid hazard awareness for Special Operations Forces. Once deployed, each sensor continuously monitors the environment, autonomously analyzing air samples and providing immediate detection alerts. Upon detection, the sensor generates geolocated data, automatically pushing its detection results and environmental metadata into ATAK.&nbsp;Through embedded wireless mesh networking capability, the sensors create a resilient, scalable, detection grid, allowing the information or real-time hazard maps that update dynamically as threat presence change. Data is transmitted using Cursor-On-Target messages, enabling seamless interoperability with ATAK clients, WebTAK, WinTAK, and TAK servers. Sensor status, detection, and locations are visualized directly on the ATAK map, allowing users to rapidly assess affected areas and informing operational decisions.&nbsp;Requirements for this development are as follows:<ul><li>Drop Sensor SWaP:<ul><li>&lt;2.5” diameter, &lt;1” height</li><li>Weight = &lt;2.5 oz.</li><li>Scalable employment options for UAS employment</li><li>Capable of identifying a range of CWA and TIC; response time &lt;5mins</li><li>48-hour battery life, extendable sleep mode option</li><li>Geolocated outputs; each detection tagged with GPS coordinates</li><li>Mesh Networking; multiple sensors interconnect to expand coverage and maintain communication in denied communications environments</li><li>Integration into the ATAK CBRNPI utilizing ProtoBuff programming language partnered with a DTRA-approved ATAK CBRNPI Developer</li><li>Drop-tested to MIL-STD-810G for ruggedization</li></ul></li></ul>

## Objective

DTRA seeks to develop and demonstrate a lightweight, droppable chemical warfare agent sensor capable of real-time detection, identification, and geolocation of chemical threats. 

## Phase I

Candidate chemical detection technologies (e.g., miniaturized IMS, colorimetric arrays, electrochemical sensors) will be evaluated and down-selected based on sensitivity, size, and power considerations. Bench-top testing against chemical simulants will be conducted to validate early performance. Sensor modules will be designed, integrating detection elements, GPS geolocation, a mesh networking architecture, and initial COT messaging capabilities for ATAK integration. Networking feasibility will ne demonstrated through a mesh network of multiple units, with CoT message transmission to a TAK client. Additionally, am initial hazard mapping concept will be developed to model threat zones. Phase I will conclude with a feasibility report. In addition, both a detailed prototype design package and a refined Phase II development plan will be delivered which will demonstrate the technical feasibility of a Phase II effort.

## Phase II

Field and demonstrate fully functional, ruggedized drop sensor prototypes. Focus on integrating advanced detection technologies with a compact, MIL-STD-810G-certified enclosure, achieving long operational life (&gt;72hours) on battery power. Chemical sensing capabilities will be expanded to cover CWA&rsquo;s with improved detection thresholds, validated through laboratory and live agent testing. Mesh networking capabilities will be enhanced with self-forming, self-healing protocols, suppprting both peer-to-peer communications and data relay to TAK clients or servers via PyTAK. Hazard field interpolation algorithms will be finalized and implemented into custom ATAK visualization layers for real-time hazard mapping, complete with gradient concentration displays. Multiple prototypes will be fabricated and deployed in operationally relevant condition, supporting a full rang of Special Operations Forces CBRN missions. 

## Phase III: Dual Use Applications

This phase will further develop the capability developed in Phase II by improving robustness and user application. Although additional funding may be provided through DoD sources, the awardee should look to other public or private sector funding sources for assistance with transition and commercialization.

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