Robust and resilient optical modulators for extreme environment applications

Solicitation OSW27BZ02-NV004, managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, seeks the development of robust and resilient optical modulators for extreme environment applications. This Phase I SBIR effort focuses on creating new epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) based optical modulators capable of operating in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and near-IR regimes. Key technical requirements include demonstrating high-temperature stability and durability in air up to 800 degrees Celsius, as well as resilience under intense laser irradiation up to 10 MWcm-2. Proposers must design compact, power-efficient devices utilizing electrical or optical tuning to achieve ultrafast switching and low optical losses. This total small business set-aside requires offerors to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and comply with CMMC Level 1 cybersecurity requirements. Proposals must be submitted via the DoW SBIR Innovation Portal (DSIP) in three volumes, with the technical volume limited to 20 pages. Evaluation is based on technical merit, the qualifications of the research team, and commercial potential. The resulting Phase I contract, typically lasting six to twelve months, is expected to be performed at the Unclassified/CUI level, with deliverables including technical reports, measured data, and proof-of-concept design artifacts.