SecDef funds Princeton Infrared Technologies’ SWIR EO seeker
Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) Imaging using lattice matched InGaAs (In0.53Ga0.47As) provides some of the lowest noise imaging material for imaging in the SWIR. (Image: Princeton Infrared Technologies)
Princeton Infrared Technologies has received a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research award from the US Office of the Secretary of Defense (SecDef) to develop a high-resolution, short-wave infrared (SWIR), electro-optical (EO) seeker.
The camera will have high pixel operability with a digital output greater than the industry standard frame rate at full resolution.
The imager will be manufactured on InP substrates using the InGaAs/GaAsSb system allowing for low cost and the ability to utilise modern III-V semiconductor processing.
The imager will be manufactured and hybridised at wafer scale to minimise cost.
Martin H. Ettenberg, president of Princeton Infrared Technologies, commented: ‘These new imagers will require significantly less cooling allowing reduced system size, weight, power and cost’.
Although the value of the award has not been disclosed, Princeton Infrared Technologies previously received an SBIR award for a high-resolution SWIR EO seeker from the Office of the SecDef in 2019 that was valued at around $150,000.
This announcement follows from the news of the USAF awarding Princeton Infrared Technologies $1 million to develop an SWIR camera for low-cost targeting and tracking application in September earlier this year.
More from Defence Notes
-
What will next-gen counter-UAS capabilities for the US look like?
Future US counter-uncrewed aerial system solutions are likely to require a flexible, multi-layered approach to tackle a broad spectrum of new threats as they emerge.
-
Elbit Systems awarded $2.3 billion contract as results soar
The company’s order backlog as of 30 September totalled $25.2 billion and more than a third of this is scheduled to be fulfilled before the end of 2026.
-
US military foresees growing use of 3D printing
Advanced manufacturing has evolved to meet military requirements and now supports multiple US critical assets, including Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, F-18, F-22, F-35, Bradley, HMMWV and Patriot.
-
Irish Naval Service expands as the country looks to defence during EU presidency
The Irish Naval Service has struggled to maintain capability, particularly in the face of lucrative private sector offers luring away personnel.
-
Resilience, adaptiveness and collaboration vital for success in space (Studio)
Speakers at the Defence In Space Conference (DISC) 2025 highlighted the critical and evolving role of space in national security, defence and the global economy.