DIU CSO #PROJ00651

DIU Solicits Multi-Waveform Laser Communication Terminals and pLEO Optical Communications Demonstration

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is seeking innovative solutions to advance laser communication (lasercom) technology for use in contested air and space environments. - Government Buyer: - Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), Department of War (DoW) - Products/Services Requested: - Development and demonstration of multi-waveform optical communication terminals (OCTs) with low size, weight, and power (SWaP) - Must support seamless data transport across multiple waveform and network boundaries - Required waveform compatibility: JLIS/OIC2 v4.1, OpenZR+, LCRD, SDA 3.2, SDA 4.0 - Emphasis on interoperability, space and flight heritage, high data rates, atmospheric penetration, and recurring engineering cost - Demonstration of reliable, high-throughput optical communications between a commercially owned/operated proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) satellite constellation and an airborne lasercom terminal - Includes live flight demonstration and technical validation - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Open to both U.S. and international vendors - Preference for nontraditional defense contractors and small businesses - Follows Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) framework - Successful prototypes may lead to direct follow-on production contracts - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in the solicitation

Description

The Department of War (DoW) is seeking solutions to accelerate the insertion of laser communication technology into contested air and space domains. The solicitation focuses on two lines of effort: development and demonstration of multi-waveform lasercom optical communication terminals (OCTs) with low size, weight, and power, and demonstration of reliable high throughput optical communications between a commercial proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) constellation and an airborne lasercom terminal. Vendors may submit solutions for one or both lines of effort, with specific technical objectives and key performance attributes outlined for each. The opportunity is open to U.S. and international vendors and follows the Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) framework.

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