S O L I C I T A T I O N R E S P O N S E

U.S. Strategic Operations Command is looking for insights into the current state of the “maritime optical system” market, and wants to identify emerging technologies and planned future advancements.  

The Problem

USSOCOM needs to deliver a state-of-the-art system that prioritizes both operator and craft safety and survivability, ultimately enhancing mission effectiveness in challenging maritime environments. To do so, the organization is collecting information and hosting events that will inform the requirements for an upcoming “Next Generation Maritime Optical Systems” for the Naval Special Warfare Combatant Crafts; the process will ensure the requirements reflect the most cutting-edge and innovative solutions available. 

The Solution

USSOCOM is looking for upgrades in several key areas, including but not limited to:

  • Increased Operational Range:  Extending the Electro-Optical and Infrared (EO/IR) effective reach.

  • Advanced Image Fusion:  Combining data from different sensors for a clearer tactical picture.

  • Net-Centric Data Sharing:  Seamlessly sharing real-time information across the network.

  • Enhanced Information Assurance:  Protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.

  • Improved Signature Management:  Minimizing multi-sensor detectability.

  • Ensuring Increased Maintainability:  Especially regarding fragile components like glass and cables, requires a multi-pronged approach focusing on design, material selection, and maintenance.

Awards

Financial details were not released, but USSOCOM outlines several possible routes, from intermediary agreements and OTAs to CRADAs (we recently hosted a primer on these options here).

Submissions

Israeli startups with relevant capabilities can submit their capability for review using this form. Deadline is Oct. 24. There’s a slide deck from back in June on the topic, as well as a more detailed problem statement. Also available are the criteria that USSOCOM will use to evaluate solutions, and a standard template.

Next Steps

USSOCOM is hosting a virtual Q&A teleconference on Oct. 9. You can click here to sign up for the Q&A.

Difficulty

Simple white paper submission.

Questions

Contact Scott Cohen at The CET Sandbox at scott@cetsandbox.com.

Next Generation Maritime Optical Systems