DON27BZ02-NV008 — Integrated Multi-Spectral Periscope for the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV)

Develop and demonstrate a ruggedized, multi-spectral imaging, 360-degree-capable camera system capable of integration into Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) periscopes.

Current periscopic vision systems on Marine Corps combat vehicles are limited to daylight optical performance, over a limited Field of View (FoV), and lack the ability to integrate modern digital imaging, thermal, and night vision technologies. The new system shall provide daylight, low-light/night vision, and thermal (IR) imaging capabilities through a single, compact, and modular unit; and enhance situational awareness, target detection, and crew safety for Marines during water, transition, and land operating environments.   This SBIR topic seeks to develop an integrated camera-based periscope module that: Provides visible (Electro-Optical [EO]), night vision (Near-Infrared Low-Level Laser (or Light) [NIR/LLL]), and long-wave infrared (LWIR) imaging in a compact unit. Is retrofit-compatible with existing periscope housings used in the USMC ACV FOV, or is capable of replacing optical viewports with an electronic display module. Includes onboard image fusion and low-latency video output for vehicle displays and augmented-reality systems. Meets ruggedization standards (MIL-STD-810H, MIL-STD-461D, and EC Standard 60529, rating IP66) for temperature, shock, vibration, EMI, dust and water resistance. Provides hardware resistance to seawater corrosion, as tested in accordance with GMW 14872, “Exterior, Exposure D” as stated in Table A3. Does not result in significant weight increase over that of the standard periscope. Supports integration with vehicle electronics architectures, including Vehicular Integration for C4ISR/EW Interoperability (VICTORY) and NATO STANAG 4609 standards.   Novel design approaches may include: Digital overlay in periscope eyepieces, merging optical and sensor imagery for seamless situational awareness. Edge processing and SI-assisted fusion of EO/NIR/LWIR feeds to highlight threats or movement. Wireless or wired integration with crew display systems such as: o Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) o Enhanced Night Vision Goggle – Binocular (ENVG-B) o Joint Mounted Display System (JMDS)   Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. owned and operated with no foreign influence as defined by 32 U.S.C. § 2004.20 et seq., National Industrial Security Program Executive Agent and Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) formerly Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor and/or subcontractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances. This will allow contractor personnel to perform on advanced phases of this project as set forth by DCSA and MCSC in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material during the advanced phases of this contract IAW the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), which can be found at Title 32, Part 2004.20 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

Design a concept for a compact, multi-spectral camera system suitable for integration into combat vehicle periscopes. (Note: The preliminary mechanical and electrical design will include a high-level architecture diagram and interface concepts for periscope integration.) Deliver a final report that includes a technical feasibility study assessing image performance, latency, durability, and interface compatibility with vehicle systems. Document the design in a performance specification and an architecture diagram to be used in Phase II to build a prototype for testing.

Develop, integrate, and test a prototype multi-spectral camera system. (Note: This will include engineering development of the camera, optics, and electronics to meet environmental and vehicle standards including a detailed architecture diagram. Integrate and demonstrate the camera system on a USMC ACV in coordination with PM AAA. (Note: The prototype must demonstrate interoperability with onboard display systems (IVAS, ENVG-B, JMDS, etc.) and meet the performance specification developed in Phase I.) Include in the final report a Phase III commercialization and transition plan that addresses manufacturing scalability, cost models, and potential dual-use applications. Work in Phase II may become classified. Please see note in the Description.

Support transition of the resulting camera system to Marine Corps combat platforms for integration into periscope or vision systems. Dual-use opportunities include: Military Dismounted Operations, Federal and DoW Law Enforcement. Adaptation for ballistic shields used by the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Department of War, and local SWAT agencies by providing improved visibility and situational awareness. Armored security vehicles, border patrol systems, and maritime platforms that require all-weather visibility.