Opportunity
SBIR / STTR #Weapons Systems, Army STTR, Phase I
Army Solicitation for R&D of Soldier PPE Against High Energy Laser Threats
Posted
May 17, 2023
Respond By
June 14, 2023
Identifier
Weapons Systems, Army STTR, Phase I
NAICS
541715, 332994
This opportunity seeks innovative solutions for Soldier protection against high energy laser (HEL) threats under the Army STTR program. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Army (Army STTR program) - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in the solicitation - Products/Services Requested: - Research and development of lightweight, wearable personal protective equipment (PPE) for Soldiers - PPE must: - Neutralize high energy laser threats and alert the wearer - Prevent laser penetration to the skin for at least one minute - Maintain inner surface temperature below 44 °C - Not catch fire prematurely - Be flexible, wearable, and cover more than 1 m2 - Be portable for individual Soldiers - Compliance with ASTM thermal protection standards (ASTM 1959, 1930, 1358, C1055-20) - Deliverables include monthly technical reports and a final technical report detailing the material solution and expected protection levels - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Focus on innovative, lightweight, and flexible PPE - Emphasis on both military and potential commercial/industrial applications - No specific part numbers or existing products referenced - Opportunity for transition to Army Program of Record in later phases
Description
This solicitation seeks the research and development of lightweight, wearable personal protective equipment (PPE) for Soldiers to neutralize high energy laser (HEL) threats upon impact and alert the wearer to such threats. The PPE must reduce burn injury and damage, prevent laser penetration to the skin for at least one minute, maintain inner surface temperature below 44 °C, and not catch fire prematurely. The solution should be wearable, flexible, and cover an area greater than 1 m2, following ASTM thermal protection standards. The project includes Phase I research and development, Phase II baseline development and transition, and Phase III continued development and transition.