Survivable & Affordable Lens Technology (SALT)
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The Department of Defense, through the Small Business Innovation Research program, is seeking proposals to develop low-cost infrared optics for attritable unmanned aerial vehicles under the Survivable and Affordable Lens Technology initiative. This effort requires investigating whether alkali-halide materials, such as sodium chloride, cesium bromide, and potassium bromide, can serve as cost-effective alternatives to traditional, expensive military-grade infrared optical materials. Phase I tasks involve optical design exercises to evaluate feasibility, optical image quality, shelf-life, and protective coating durability, while Phase II will focus on manufacturing hardware demonstration units, validating moisture-resistant coatings, and implementing passive athermalization. Technical requirements include achieving compatibility with uncooled infrared sensors and securing a Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Level 1. Proposals must be submitted by the closing deadline of August 19, 2026.