MWIR Hyperspectral Sensor Design and Modeling

The U.S. Air Force, under the Department of Defense, is seeking a small business to perform conceptual design, optical modeling, and simulation for a high-resolution mid-wave infrared (MWIR) hyperspectral imager. The work aims to optimize the sensor’s spectral, spatial, and temporal performance to meet demanding operational requirements, with a focus on advanced imaging capabilities in the MWIR band. This effort is a subcontract under a Small Business Innovation Research mandate, specifically designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside, meaning only businesses with fewer than 500 employees are eligible to respond. The project falls under NAICS code 334510, which pertains to navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing. Submissions are due by July 8, 2026, and the opportunity was posted on June 24, 2026. The performance location is not specified, but the work is expected to be conducted by the awarded small business, with technical deliverables centered on design and simulation outputs rather than physical hardware fabrication. This contract supports the development of next-generation hyperspectral imaging technology for defense applications, emphasizing innovation in optical system design and modeling to enhance detection, identification, and characterization capabilities in the mid-wave infrared spectrum.