Strategic Executive Summary Core Hardware: 2026 relies on uncooled microbolometers. They prioritize SWaP-C (Size, Weight, Power, and Cost) efficiency for rapid edge deployment. Material Shift: We recommend Chalcogenide glass for commercial scale to bypass high costs while providing superior passive athermalization, ensuring consistent focus across wide operating temperature ranges compared to traditional Germanium. Performance Benchmark: Target an NETD below 40mK to maximi