SAM #SS-AFRL-RIZ-2026-0032

AFRL Seeks Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detection System for Advanced Research

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is seeking information from small businesses on their ability to provide a Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detection (SNSPD) System for advanced research applications. - Government Buyer: - Department of Defense (DoD), Air Force Materiel Command, Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) - Products/Services Requested: - Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detection (SNSPD) System - 1 complete system required - Must include multiple detection channels and fiber-coupled inputs - Integrated cryogenic cooling system - Control software and calibration/experimental support - All necessary peripherals and accessories for laboratory operation - Technical Requirements: - Detect single photons across 700-2100 nm (visible to near-infrared) - High detection efficiency (80% near-infrared, 60% extended infrared) - Timing resolution of 100 picoseconds - Low dark count rates - Compliance with federal safety standards - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Capability statements required from small businesses - System must support advanced research in ladar, laser communications, ISR, and remote sensing - No specific OEMs or part numbers identified in the notice - This is a Sources Sought notice to assess market capability, not a solicitation for quotes

Description

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base has a requirement for a Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detection (SNSPD) System.

This is a Sources Sought (SS).  This is not a presolicitation or Request for Quote (RFQ) and is not to be construed as any commitment by the Government. This notice does not obligate the Government to award a contract and or pay for any quote preparation costs.  The Government will not accept quotes at this time.  This notice is not an offer by the Government to enter into a contract. Interested Small Business concerns must identify to the contracting officer their interest and capability to satisfy the Government's requirement by closing date listed. Responses will allow the Government to conduct an initial review of market capabilities in support of requirements identified in the Draft Minimum Requirements Document.

NAICS Code: 334511

SUBMISSION DETAILS: All interested parties are encouraged to submit a response to this Sources Sought. Responses will be accepted until 24 July 2026 at 10 AM Eastern Time and should address the following questions:

1. Company name, cage code, address, point of contact, phone number, and email address

2. Identification of whether the company is currently designated as a Small Business as defined in FAR Part 19.1 and the appropriate category (e.g., 8(a), HubZone, etc.).

3. Company description of relevant capability and experience to provide supplies/services in accordance with the minimum requirements.

Capability package responses and questions shall be sent electronically to Mike Hornberger at michael.hornberger.1@us.af.mil.

Be advised that all correspondence sent via e-mail shall contain a subject line that reads “Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detection (SNSPD) System.” Note that e-mail filters at Wright-Patterson AFB are designed to filter e-mails without subject lines or with suspicious subject lines or contents (i.e., .exe, or .zip files).  Therefore, if this subject line is not included, the e-mail may not get through the e-mail filters.  Also be advised that .zip or .exe files are not allowable attachments and may be deleted by the e-mail filters at Wright-Patterson AFB.  If sending attachments with e-mail, ensure only .PDF, .doc, docx, xls, or .xsls documents are sent.  The e-mail filter may delete any other form of attachments.

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