SBIR / STTR #DON26TZ05-NV024

Navy STTR Solicitation: Lightweight, Modular Fuel Cell Systems for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

This opportunity seeks advanced lightweight, modular fuel cell systems for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) under the Navy's STTR program. - Government Buyer: - Department of the Navy - Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) - Marine Corps - DON SBIR/STTR Program Management Office - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; open to all qualified small businesses with relevant fuel cell or UAS expertise - Products/Services Requested: - Development of rugged, efficient, modular proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell systems for UAS - Power output range: 1kW to 20kW (potentially exceeding 100kW) - Part Number: DON26TZ05-NV024 - Emphasis on modularity, intelligent control algorithms, and UAS integration - Research and development services across three phases: - Phase I: Concept development, CAD drawings, modeling, and control algorithms for 1kW and 10kW configurations - Phase II: Prototype fabrication, bench testing, advanced control system, and UAS manufacturer collaboration - Phase III: Transition to manufacturable product, low-rate initial production, and operational demonstration - Unique/Notable Requirements: - Power-to-weight ratio of 500 W/kg - Minimum 50% system efficiency - 1,000+ hours operational lifetime - Rapid startup/shutdown capability - Operation in harsh environments - Use of hydrogen or alternative fuels - Must be suitable for both military and commercial UAS applications - Collaboration with UAS manufacturers for integration and demonstration - Proposals must be submitted by small businesses via the DoD SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP) - No specific purchase quantities; focus is on R&D and prototype delivery

Description

This solicitation seeks proposals for lightweight, modular fuel cell systems designed for unmanned aircraft systems. The program is part of the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) initiative managed by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR). The solicitation is in pre-release status and is part of the Department of the Navy's 2026 STTR Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). Proposals must be submitted via the DoD SBIR/STTR Innovation Portal (DSIP) and comply with specific submission instructions. The solicitation covers phases I, II, and SPII, with various contract strategies considered for awards.

View original listing