Event-Based Sensing Hardware and Algorithms for Navigation

The initiative seeks to develop event-based sensing hardware and neural network algorithms to enhance the navigation accuracy of kill vehicles and satellites without relying on GNSS, while complementing existing inertial navigation systems. The technology will process real-time sensory inputs triggered by environmental changes or mission-critical stimuli, enabling adaptive decision-making and improved responsiveness in unpredictable operational conditions. By integrating multiple sensor modalities, the system will deepen situational awareness and maintain high precision comparable to current GPS standards, ensuring readiness for advanced military navigation requirements. The solution must be designed for seamless integration into existing Missile Defense Agency platforms to ensure compatibility with current navigation architectures. This solicitation, titled Event-Based Sensing Hardware and Algorithms for Navigation under MDA26BZ04-NV008, is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside under the SBIR/STTR mandate, restricted to businesses with fewer than 500 employees. It was posted on July 1, 2026, with a response deadline of July 22, 2026, and is managed by the Missile Defense Agency within the Department of Defense. While no specific place of performance or point of contact is provided, the technology must be developed with full awareness of operational needs and system constraints of established defense platforms.