Critical Low-risk Electro-optic Alternatives for Resilience (CLEAR)

The Department of Defense, through the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, has issued a special notice titled "Critical Low-risk Electro-optic Alternatives for Resilience (CLEAR)" to address challenges in the supply of key materials used in electro-optic and infrared video imaging sensors. These sensors, essential for situational awareness, surveillance, and targeting, rely heavily on materials like germanium and gallium, which possess superior optical properties for infrared applications, particularly in the mid- and long-wave infrared spectra. Due to increased Chinese export restrictions since 2023 on critical materials including germanium, gallium, and several rare earth elements, the availability and cost of these optical components have become highly uncertain. The contract seeks to foster the development of alternative domestic materials to ensure supply chain resilience and reduce dependency on foreign sources for these critical components. The solicitation was posted on June 10, 2026, by the Department of Defense office in Crane, Indiana, with responses due by June 29, 2026. It aims to engage industry and research institutions in proposing low-risk alternative materials for electro-optic/infrared systems that maintain or improve upon the performance characteristics of current germanium- and gallium-based components. Points of contact for this opportunity include Lacie Axsom and Judy Blanton, who can provide further information. The effort underscores the strategic priority of securing critical material supplies vital for national defense technologies amid evolving global trade restrictions.