Opportunity
SBIR / STTR #DAF27BZ02-NV014
Rydberg-Atom Quantum Sensing Analyzer Development for Air Force Electromagnetic Testing
Buyer
United States Air Force
Posted
November 04, 2026
Respond By
January 06, 2027
Identifier
DAF27BZ02-NV014
NAICS
541715, 334511
The Department of the Air Force is seeking small-business development of a Rydberg-atom Quantum Sensing Analyzer for precision electromagnetic measurements. - Government buyer: Department of the Air Force (DAF), through the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC); the Benefield Anechoic Facility (BAF) is identified as a key testing site. The specific contracting office is not stated. - Requested solution: Develop a Rydberg atomic-sensor analyzer that provides SI-traceable electromagnetic measurements across 1.5 MHz to 40 GHz, for applications including radar, electronic warfare, communications, antennas, and test-chamber characterization. - Planned work: - Phase I: Assess feasibility and prepare a preliminary prototype design, including analysis of sensitivity, dynamic range, bandwidth, and facility integration. - Phase II: Build, integrate, and test a functional prototype in relevant environments, including BAF. Deliver test results, an integration plan, and a transition strategy; target technology readiness level (TRL) 6. - Phase III: Potentially advance the technology to TRL 8 or higher using non-SBIR funding, with operational assessments and transition activities. - Notable requirements: Emphasis on measurement precision, SI traceability, repeatability, noise performance, dynamic range, and resilience to interference. The release also lists CMMC Level 2 (Self). - OEMs and vendors: No product OEMs, vendors, commercial part numbers, or quantities are identified.
Description
This is a Department of War SBIR topic under the 2027 SBIR Broad Agency Announcement, Release 2, for the USAF. The topic is in pre-release status and has a response deadline of January 6, 2027. The source lists a CMMC Level 2 (Self) requirement and provides topic attachments and USAF technical points of contact. The specific technical scope of the procurement is not included in the provided text.