POWER Receiver Array Demonstration (PRAD) PS
ID: DARPA-PS-24-25Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY (DARPA)DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCYARLINGTON, VA, 222032114, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; APPLIED RESEARCH (AC12)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/715f231fe8e74f5faafa0e6b8bf49590/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals for the POWER Receiver Array Demonstration (PRAD) program, aimed at developing and demonstrating a ground-based laser power receiver as part of the Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER) initiative. The program seeks to validate the efficiency and effectiveness of optical laser power beaming technology through real-world demonstrations, focusing on the integration of photovoltaic cells to capture and convert laser energy into electrical power. This initiative is critical for enhancing military energy logistics and fostering innovation in defense technologies. Interested parties must submit Abstracts by October 9, 2024, with a Proposers Day scheduled for September 17, 2024, and can direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PS-24-25@darpa.mil. The project has a budget of $350,000, allocated across various phases, and aims for completion within six months after receiving the authority to proceed.

    Point(s) of Contact
    BAA Coordinator
    DARPA-PS-24-25@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DARPA-PS-24-25_Amendment 1.pdf
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) issued a Program Solicitation (DARPA-PS-24-25) for the POWER Receiver Array Demonstration (PRAD) on September 4, 2024. This program seeks innovative approaches to develop and demonstrate a ground-based laser power receiver as part of the Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER) initiative. Key dates include the Proposers Day on September 17, 2024, and Abstract submissions due by October 9, 2024. The PRAD aims to test the efficiency and effectiveness of an optical laser power beaming system, which includes real-world demonstrations to validate performance under various conditions. Interested parties are encouraged to submit Abstracts, following which selected applicants will be invited for Oral Presentations. The solicitation emphasizes lower administrative burdens for proposers from all sectors, including small businesses and research institutions. AN Other Transaction (OT) for Prototype agreement is anticipated to support this effort, with a focus on immediate, prototype-level innovations for military applications. Overall, the program aims to enhance the scalability, efficiency, and robustness of laser power receivers to improve military energy logistics, while fostering competition and innovation in defense-related technologies.
    DARPA-PS-24-25.pdf
    The DARPA Tactical Technology Office (TTO) has issued a Program Solicitation for the POWER Receiver Array Demonstration (PRAD) aimed at developing and demonstrating a ground-based optical laser power beaming receiver. This initiative addresses energy transfer challenges within the Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER) Program, supporting military applications. Key dates include an initial announcement on September 4, 2024, a Proposers Day on September 11, and deadlines for abstracts and oral presentations by September 30 and three weeks later, respectively. The PRAD program seeks innovative solutions focusing on the performance and reliability of photovoltaic (PV) receiver arrays under real-world conditions, including alignment validation, efficiency measurement, and scalability. Proposers, including businesses and research institutions, are encouraged to submit abstracts that outline their technical understanding and approach to overcoming identified challenges. The government aims to reduce administrative burdens, foster competition, and facilitate quicker project initiation through a streamlined acquisition strategy involving abstracts and oral presentations. Awards will likely be made through an Other Transaction (OT) for prototype agreements, emphasizing the development and delivery of effective power receivers for military applications. Participants must provide evidence of compliance, technical capabilities, and cost-effectiveness throughout the evaluation process.
    PRAD_EFFORT_NAME-TYPE_Summary_Quad.pptx
    This document outlines a federal funding proposal for a project under DARPA, detailing a $350,000 budget split across various phases, including kick-off, technology readiness review (TRR), and close-out. The project includes clear objectives aimed at advancing key technologies with specified components and integration processes. Additionally, it defines the product outcome as a final system and articulates the anticipated impact of the project. Participation details note the performing organization and any contributing government entities, establishing a collaborative approach. Key success criteria are presented with defined metrics to track progress and determine project viability. A timeline for project milestones projects completion within a six-month period after the authority to proceed is granted. Overall, this proposal serves to secure federal funding while showcasing innovation and collaboration between private and government entities, emphasizing technological advancements and their societal benefits.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    POWER Receiver Array Demonstration (PRAD) PS
    Currently viewing
    Solicitation
    Similar Opportunities
    Heterogenous Adaptively Produced Photonic Interfaces (HAPPI) BAA
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals for the Heterogenous Adaptively Produced Photonic Interfaces (HAPPI) program, aimed at advancing high-density three-dimensional optical routing in integrated photonic microsystems. The program seeks to develop revolutionary approaches that enhance information transmission density and efficiency, addressing significant technical challenges in photonic technologies. With a funding amount of $30 million available, proposals are due by October 29, 2024, following an abstract submission deadline of October 1, 2024. Interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at HR001124S0038@darpa.mil for further information.
    Disruptioneering Program Announcement
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is announcing the Disruptioneering Program, inviting proposals for high-risk, high-reward research initiatives aimed at advancing national security applications. This program seeks to rapidly investigate new technologies through targeted Disruption Opportunities (DOs), enabling the development of innovative prototypes within a streamlined timeframe of less than 120 days from idea inception. Proposals must be unclassified and adhere to specific submission formats, with funding awards anticipated to reach up to $2 million, requiring a minimum one-third cost share. Interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PA-24-04@darpa.mil for further details and guidance on proposal submissions.
    Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) Office-wide
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), through its Microsystems Technology Office (MTO), has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeking revolutionary research ideas in the realm of microsystems technology. The focus is on developing cutting-edge solutions that advance DARPA's mission and address national security challenges. This BAA aims to procure high-risk, high-reward technologies in three key areas: Scientific Disruption: Exploring next-generation transistor technology, including photonic, quantum, and bio/organic circuits, and advancing photonic interconnects, quantum computing, and biomolecular computing. Microsystems Manufacturing Ecosystem: Developing sustainable and efficient fabrication methods for advanced microsystems, with an emphasis on additive manufacturing, predictive process control, and material reuse. Dual Use by Design: Strengthening the partnership between the DoD and commercial enterprises to ensure the rapid deployment of military microsystem technologies with commercial applicability. DARPA seeks unique and innovative approaches that are not currently being explored in its ongoing programs or other published solicitations. The agency encourages proposals for a range of topics within these thrust areas, including fault-tolerant quantum computing, biochemical processors, and data-starved fabrication processes. The agency plans to award multiple contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements for research and development. The BAA offers an accelerated contract award option for proposals with a cost limit of $2 million, ensuring a swift award within 30 days of selection. This option streamlines the process for procuring cost-reimbursement contracts and encourages applicants to opt for this efficient path. Proposers should submit abstracts of no more than 6 pages by March 9, 2025, which will undergo an initial review for uniqueness and potential impact. Full proposals are due by May 9, 2025, and should include a technical and management volume as well as a cost volume, following the specified templates and guidelines. The technical proposal should highlight the technical approach, SOW, schedules, and milestones, while the cost proposal must provide a comprehensive breakdown of expenses across various categories. Organizations seeking the accelerated award option should agree to the stipulated terms, including data rights assertions and fee limitations, and submit a completed DARPA cost proposal spreadsheet. Proposals will be evaluated based on their scientific and technical merit, potential contribution to DARPA's mission, and cost realism. Besides the accelerated option, DARPA also emphasizes the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in its solicitations and expects proposers to adhere to the specified handling and marking instructions. Interested organizations should contact Dr. Whitney Mason at HR001124S0028@darpa.mil for clarification or further information. The BAA encourages applicants to submit innovative solutions, focusing on the technical approach, impact, and potential for revolutionary advancements in microsystems technology.
    Draft Broad Agency Announcement Heterogenous Adaptively Produced Photonic Interfaces (HAPPI)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is announcing a draft Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Heterogeneous Adaptively Produced Photonic Interfaces (HAPPI) program. This initiative aims to advance optical routing technologies in integrated photonic microsystems, targeting a significant increase in information transmission density through innovative 3D routing solutions. The program is critical for enhancing national security and commercial applications in advanced photonic technologies. Interested parties should note that the final BAA is expected to be posted by the end of September 2024, with a Proposers Day scheduled for September 16, 2024, and proposal submissions due by October 29, 2024. For further inquiries, contact the BAA Coordinator at HR001124S0038@darpa.mil.
    Workshop to Advance Photonic Microwave Oscillators
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is hosting a workshop titled "Workshop to Advance Photonic Microwave Oscillators" on October 10, 2024, at the Virginia Tech Research Center in Arlington, Virginia. This workshop aims to facilitate discussions among technology developers, system integrators, and the manufacturing ecosystem regarding the integration of low-noise photonic oscillators into radio frequency (RF) systems, building on the advancements made under DARPA's GRYPHON program. The event will feature presentations from leaders in government, industry, and academia, along with opportunities for participant engagement through round robin and poster sessions. Registration is open until October 1, 2024, and interested parties can submit unclassified abstracts for consideration. For further inquiries, participants may contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-24-110@darpa.mil.
    Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) Open Announcement
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    Solicitation DEPT OF DEFENSE is seeking Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER) services. This research and development opportunity aims to perform R&D, modeling and simulation, design, component/subsystem, prototype risk reduction, fabrication/purchase, assembly, integration, and testing of directed energy source components and systems. The goal is to demonstrate system capabilities through laboratory research, experimentation, and field trials in a relevant environment. The announcement encourages dialogue between prospective Offerors and Government representatives. The solicitation is open for white papers and proposals, with the possibility of collapsing the process into a one-step evaluation. The research will support the development of next-generation technologies and weapon system options for the joint warfighter, with a focus on improving national defense capabilities in the domains of directed energy. The announcement provides specific topic areas for research, including directed energy sources, acquisition tracking pointing and beam control systems, DE weapon systems, DE effects testing, modeling and simulation, wargaming, innovative space domain awareness, experiments and testing, and laboratory materials and supplies. The announcement also outlines the types of contracts/instruments that may be awarded and provides information on estimated program cost, anticipated number of awards, schedule, deliverables, and points of contact.
    Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the "Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research" initiative, aimed at advancing transformative aerospace technologies. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) invites innovative research and development efforts to mature specific technologies to appropriate technology readiness levels (TRL), focusing on enhancing military capabilities and ensuring a decisive advantage for warfighters. The initiative encompasses various areas, including high-speed systems, autonomous controls, and propulsion technologies, with a total funding potential of up to $500 million for multiple contracts over a 20-year period. Interested parties should submit white papers by May 10, 2043, and can direct inquiries to Katherine Ryan at AFRL.RQ.PACERBAA@us.af.mil for further information.
    RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF NAVAL POWER AND ENERGY SYSTEMS (N00024-19-R-4145 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA))
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT OF NAVAL POWER AND ENERGY SYSTEMS (Combined Synopsis/Solicitation DEPT OF DEFENSE DEPT OF THE NAVY) The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Navy, is seeking research and development proposals for naval power and energy systems. These systems are crucial for providing power and energy to Navy ships, both current and future, at various levels including major components, subsystems, and the overall system. The goal is to advance and improve shipboard electric power and energy systems. The Electric Ships Office, part of the Program Executive Office Ships, is leading this effort on behalf of the Navy. They are interested in long and short term research and development projects that have the potential to enhance ship power systems. The focus areas include shipboard power generation, electric propulsion, power conversion, energy storage, distribution and control, power quality, continuity, and system stability. The Navy is particularly interested in technologies that can improve energy efficiency, power density, and carbon footprint compared to existing propulsion and power system technologies. They are also looking for advancements in energy storage, power conversion, power distribution, prime movers (including power generation), rotating machines (including generators and propulsion motors), cooling and thermal management, power controls, and system interplay, interfacing, and integration. Proposals must be submitted in the form of White Papers, and awards may take the form of contracts, cooperative agreements, or other transaction agreements. The Navy reserves the right to select proposals and award contracts based on the evaluation criteria specified in the announcement. For more information and to submit White Papers, interested parties can contact Joseph Tannenbaum at joseph.tannenbaum@navy.mil or John Anderson at john.anderson6@navy.mil. This is a great opportunity for researchers and developers to contribute to the advancement of naval power and energy systems, ultimately enhancing the capabilities of Navy ships.
    Prime Power Distribution Systems (PPDS) Request for Proposal (RFP)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is soliciting proposals for the Prime Power Distribution Systems (PPDS) through a Request for Proposal (RFP) aimed at modernizing electric power distribution infrastructure across military operations. This procurement involves a Firm Fixed-Price Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract that spans ten years, including a five-year base period and an optional five-year extension, with a total contract ceiling estimated at $90 million. The PPDS will consist of key components such as the Improved Primary Switching Center, Improved Secondary Distribution Centers, and Tactical Prime Power Transformers, which are critical for ensuring reliable power distribution in various operational environments. Interested parties must submit their proposals by September 23, 2024, and can direct inquiries to Tony D. Adams at tony.d.adams10.civ@army.mil or Danny Lester at danny.w.lester.civ@army.mil.
    DARPA "Venture Horizons" Request for Information
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking responses to its Request for Information (RFI) for the "Venture Horizons" initiative, aimed at connecting top-tier investors with DARPA personnel to enhance national security through breakthrough technologies. This initiative invites venture capital firms, private equity, and other investors to outline their investment capabilities, areas of interest, and commitment to DARPA's mission, while ensuring the avoidance of adversarial capital. The RFI emphasizes the importance of collaboration in advancing defense-related technology and requires participants to align their responses with six key DARPA technical offices, detailing their expertise and previous experiences. Interested parties must submit their responses, limited to a maximum of 25 pages, by October 18, 2024, and can direct inquiries to DARPA Commercial Strategy at DARPAVentureHorizons@darpa.mil. No government funding or reimbursement will be provided for participation in this initiative.