High-speed nanophotonic spatial light modulators
SBIR Opportunity Analysis
The Department of Defense, through the Department of the Air Force SBIR program, is seeking proposals to develop high-speed, nanophotonic-enabled spatial light modulator arrays. Awardees must develop a platform technology capable of both amplitude and phase modulation speeds greater than 1 Gbps to advance technologies like LiDAR, free-space laser communications, quantum sensing, and imaging. The work requires demonstrating the technology across near-infrared and midwave infrared wavelengths, culminating in the delivery of a fully integrated prototype system with at least five devices to the Air Force Research Laboratory. This is a Direct-to-Phase II opportunity requiring applicants to submit Phase I feasibility documentation demonstrating existing simulation and testing capabilities, alongside maintaining Level 1 Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification. Proposals must be submitted under solicitation number 26.BZ between the opening date of July 22, 2026, and the closing deadline of August 19, 2026.