SQUID3 Space Awarded $250K U.S. Army SBIR Phase I Contract
- Warren Su
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
To Advance Physical AI Tools for Operationally Responsive Manufacturing
Los Angeles, CA — August 15, 2025 – SQUID3 Space announced today that it has been awarded a $250,000 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I contract from the U.S. Army. The project will develop physical AI manufacturing tools aimed at transforming maintenance and logistics capabilities across the Department of Defense (DoD).
The award was issued under the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT)) through the Army SBIR Program, which invests in innovative small businesses to accelerate game-changing technologies for Soldiers.
Under Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s April 30 memo, the Army has begun incorporating Right-to-Repair provisions in both existing and future procurement contracts. Those directives seek to eliminate contractual constraints that inhibit the Army’s ability to carry out maintenance on their own equipment — by allowing access to tools, software, and technical data necessary for self‑sustainment.
“This SBIR award aligns with a watershed moment in military logistics,” said Blake Dority, VP of Products at SQUID3 Space. “Powered by physical AI and empowered by Right-to-Repair reforms, our technology will enable in-situ manufacturing and repairs, reducing cost, reliance on contractors, and timelines that previously left critical equipment non-mission capable.”
This project supports the Army’s broader goals to modernize acquisition, enhance force resilience, and optimize sustainment — especially in contested or degraded environments where traditional supply chains and contractor support may be disrupted.
Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Army, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.
See the Army’s announcement here: Army SBIR Press Release
About SQUID3 Space
Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, SQUID3 Space is an aerospace and defense technology company specializing in spacecraft materials manufacturing and AI/ML integrations. The company’s customers include the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Space Force, and U.S. Army, as well as industry partners across the aerospace and defense sectors.