Optimally Packaged Assembly for Laser Systems (OPALS)

The Optimally Packaged Assembly for Laser Systems (OPALS) is a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitation issued by the U.S. Air Force under the Department of War. This total small business set-aside opportunity, solicitation number DAF27BZ01-NV002, seeks research and development efforts to prove scientific and technical feasibility and commercialization potential. Proposals must be submitted via the DSIP portal by November 25, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. ET. The program follows a phased structure, with Phase I typically lasting six to twelve months and Phase II generally spanning 24 months. Awards may be issued as RFO-based procurement contracts, including firm-fixed-price or cost-plus-fixed-fee, as well as Other Transactions or experimental procurements. Evaluation is conducted on a competitive basis, beginning with an initial screening for topic responsiveness followed by a technical merit assessment by subject matter experts. Proposing small business concerns must maintain active registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and the SBA Company Registry. Key requirements include the disclosure of organizational conflicts of interest and adherence to Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) standards for safeguarding controlled unclassified information. The government maintains the right to inspect work at all times, and final reports are typically due within 30 days of the completion of the Phase I technical effort.