Passive Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) for Terminal Guidance
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The United States Special Operations Command is seeking innovative research and development proposals under the SBIR program to provide kinetic One-Way Attack Unmanned Aerial Systems with enhanced terminal guidance capabilities. Selected contractors must develop systems that autonomously navigate Group 1 aircraft through complex, cluttered, and unstructured environments by building models of current positions relative to static or dynamic targets and planning obstacle-free paths. Key technical requirements include utilizing passive sensors for local perception, performing organic data and sensor processing on the aircraft without cloud compute, and ensuring compatibility with Modular Open System Approach guidelines and industry standard flight controls. Phase I requires a thorough feasibility study to reach Technology Readiness Level 3, with Phase II focusing on developing and demonstrating prototype passive visual-inertial SLAM navigation systems on National Defense Authorization Act-compliant multi-rotor aircraft. Interested parties must submit their proposals between the opening date of May 27, 2026, and the closing deadline of June 24, 2026, at 4:00 PM UTC.