A GaSb/PbSe/GaSb double heterojunction laser structure is proposed. The advantages and feasibility of fabricating such lasers are discussed. Theoretical calculations show that the threshold gain for GaSb/PbSe lasers is much smaller than for traditional PbEuSe/PbSe lasers. Electrical confinement and heat dissipation is also significantly improved. The resulting much lower threshold currents and temperature difference between the active layer and heat sink should allow GaSb/PbSe lasers to operate in continuous wave mode above room temperature. ©1998 American Institute of Physics.