The Innovation & Modernization (I&M) office within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD (R&E)) is organizing Thunderstorm 24-4, an industry engagement event scheduled for November 7-8, 2024, near Fredericksburg, Virginia. The event focuses on showcasing emerging solutions for expeditionary military operations, with an emphasis on enabling rapid deployment and enhancing operational awareness in contested environments. Key technologies include advanced communication systems, AI mission planning, aerial systems, and logistics capabilities. This invitation-only event aims to include limited industry observers, particularly investors and business advisors, to foster collaboration with the defense sector. Interested parties must submit attendance requests by October 11, 2024, and provide specific organizational details. The event is classified as unclassified and will include U.S. government personnel and select technology developers presenting prototypes. I&M seeks to strengthen the defense innovation ecosystem to accelerate the transition of promising technologies into operational capabilities. This announcement serves solely for planning and engagement purposes and does not constitute a formal Request for Proposal (RFP).
The Innovation & Modernization (I&M) office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering is hosting Thunderstorm 24-4, an event focused on "Expeditionary Operations," scheduled for November 6-7, 2024, near Fredericksburg, Virginia. This invitation-only event, in partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, aims to facilitate the exploration of emerging military technologies in a field setting and enhance collaboration between the Department of Defense (DoD) and industry investors. Participants will showcase technologies that improve rapid deployment and operational awareness, including communication systems, AI for mission planning, and logistical solutions. Attendance is limited to U.S. Government personnel, select technology developers, and a small number of industry observers, such as venture capitalists and business advisors. Interested parties must submit attendance requests by October 11, 2024, providing essential information about their organizations. This announcement serves as an engagement invitation only and does not constitute a formal Request for Proposal (RFP). Overall, Thunderstorm 24-4 seeks to identify innovative approaches to military challenges while fostering a more vibrant defense innovation ecosystem.