DIRECT TO PHASE II: Highly Loaded Grain in 2.75" Form Factor
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The Navy, through Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, is seeking a Direct to Phase II SBIR effort to develop highly loaded grain propulsion for a 2.75-inch rocket motor to increase range in the Mk66 form factor. The work calls for an initial concept design and then fabrication, testing, and reporting for a prototype that incorporates ballistics, insulation, nozzle, and igniter elements. Key requirements include use of the 2.75-inch Mk 66 case, CLWire software, a 30% total impulse increase, all-boost or boost/sustain thrust profiles, reduced-smoke propellant objectives, and compatibility with existing rocket motor materials, with the government providing the motor case, HLG materials, and technical support. Phase I-type feasibility evidence is required in the proposal, and the topic also calls for demonstration under thermal and mechanical environments relevant to military use. Proposals are due June 3, 2026 at 16:00 UTC under solicitation DON26BZ01-DV043.