Kopin Corporation (NASDAQ: KOPN) announced it received a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research contract from the U.S. Government to develop full-color MicroLED display technology for soldier-borne applications.

The award builds on Kopin's existing $15.4 million IBAS contract from September 2025, representing the second MicroLED-focused Army program award within six months. The new SBIR contract supports development of a second full-color MicroLED display designed for multiple soldier-borne applications.

The technology under development aims to deliver enhanced brightness and visual performance with lower power consumption for near-eye defense applications. The displays are intended to provide soldiers with information and situational awareness capabilities.

Kopin anticipates additional development contracts from the U.S. Army to advance its MicroLED products and technology. The company stated the effort is designed to accelerate domestic MicroLED design and production capability and strengthen the U.S. MicroLED supply chain to support Army objectives of producing MicroLED displays within the United States.

The MicroLED technology is expected to support future weapon-sight programs, helmet-mounted visual information systems, advanced weapon sights, and precision targeting devices. According to the company, MicroLED technology provides necessary brightness for waveguide-based augmented reality systems in daylight conditions while maintaining power efficiency for dismounted operators.

"This award underscores the critical importance of domestically developed and manufactured MicroLED technology and its potential to redefine the performance and capability of future defense systems," said Iwan Dodd, senior vice president of business development at Kopin.

Kopin develops display and optical solutions for defense, enterprise, professional and consumer products, including microdisplays, display modules, and head-mounted display systems.