The document outlines a solicitation for the Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) related to the development of Trusted and Elastic Military Platforms and Electronic Warfare System Technologies (TEMPEST) issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). This Request for Proposals (RFP) is a rated order under the Defense Production Act and is structured in multiple sections detailing the contract clauses, required supplies or services, and the specifics of pricing, including research, software, hardware, and operations and maintenance. The contract type is identified as a cost-plus-fixed-fee basis, where the contractor is expected to deliver various elements such as research data, software, and hardware as part of the performance requirements detailed in the Statement of Work. The document includes guidelines for inspection, acceptance, and delivery of supplies, along with payment processing instructions through the Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) system. Overall, the solicitation emphasizes compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFARS) to ensure accountability, transparency, and adherence to security protocols. This document serves to attract proposals from industry partners equipped to meet national defense needs through innovative technological solutions.

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) conducted a Security Risk Review under AFRLI 61-113, effective August 8, 2024, to safeguard its Science and Technology (S&T) from potential foreign influence. This review involves evaluating proposals from Offerors/Contractors, focusing on Senior/Key personnel designated as "Covered Individuals." The review process utilizes various data sources to assess security risks, irrespective of nationality or citizenship. Offerors/Contractors must submit specific documents, including a Profile Worksheet and a Security Program Questionnaire, along with a signed Privacy Act Statement from each Covered Individual. If significant security risks are identified, funding may be declined with rationale provided, limited to operational security measures. Covered Individuals must disclose all current and pending research support upon proposal submission, which will continue to be monitored throughout the project. During performance, Offerors/Contractors are mandated to submit annual updates on their personnel and report any involvement with foreign talent programs or entities targeting U.S. technology. The goal of this initiative is to ensure robust oversight and informed decision-making regarding potential security vulnerabilities in federally funded research, ultimately protecting U.S. interests in technological advancements.

The document outlines a Security Program Questionnaire used by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to evaluate the security measures of institutions applying for research funding. It is intended for completion by project collaborators and reviewed by the Science and Technology (S&T) Protection Lead. The questionnaire covers various aspects of security, including physical and information security plans, data storage methods, information transmission processes, and protocols for the disposal, reproduction, and safeguarding of sensitive information. Additionally, it assesses cybersecurity measures, operations security to thwart adversaries, insider threat mitigation, and procedures in case of information compromise. Finally, it confirms whether personnel with data access will receive annual AFRL S&T Protection training. This tool is crucial for ensuring that funding recipients maintain robust security practices in line with federal guidelines, thereby safeguarding sensitive research information.

The document outlines the required Senior and Key Person Profile Worksheet necessary for federal contracts, particularly under FAR-based agreements. It emphasizes the importance of detailing project personnel, including the Project Director/Principal Investigator and other key roles. Each profile section requires personal and professional information, such as names, titles, department affiliations, organization details, contact information, and LinkedIn profiles. Such comprehensive profiling is essential for project management and accountability in federal grants and RFPs, ensuring that each individual's role and qualifications are formally recognized. This template promotes transparency and structured collaboration among team members in government-funded projects.

The Privacy Act Statement from the Air Force Research Laboratory outlines the legal authority and purpose for collecting information related to federal grants, cooperative agreements, contracts, and research agreements managed by the Department of the Air Force. It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that such awards are granted to responsible parties. The document specifies routine uses of the information, including sharing with contractors and law enforcement authorities when necessary for compliance and legal matters. While providing information is voluntary, non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including application rejection under relevant laws. The document also includes sections for acknowledgment and consent from individuals and authorized representatives of institutions applying for grants. This statement serves to protect both the applicants and the integrity of the federal grant process, ensuring accountability and adherence to legal standards.

The Air Force Research Laboratory announces an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) soliciting white papers and proposals for the Trusted and Elastic Military Platforms and Electronic Warfare System Technologies (TEMPEST) program. This ARA, open until October 11, 2024, encourages businesses of all sizes, particularly those specializing in defense technologies, to submit proposals in response to specific calls that will be issued over time. The ARA focuses on developing advanced methodologies and technologies to enhance cybersecurity and operational capabilities of avionics systems, especially in multi-domain environments. Key areas of interest include the assessment of platform cybersecurity, the development of cyber-hardened and cyber-resilient platforms, and integration of open system architectures. The total estimated funding for this program is up to $808 million, with multiple contract awards expected between $1 million and $200 million. Proposals will be assessed based on their technical merit, relevance, and potential for technological advancement, setting the stage for innovative solutions in military avionics and cybersecurity. The document includes details on submission guidelines, review criteria, eligibility, and responsive requirements, reaffirming the Air Force's urgency to bolster its technological capabilities against evolving threats in warfare.

The Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8650-20-S-1958 issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory focuses on developing Trusted and Elastic Military Platforms and Electronic Warfare (EW) System Technologies (TEMPEST). It invites white papers and proposals concerning methodologies to enhance avionics systems against cyber threats, including development and integration of advanced cyber security and system architectures aimed at increasing weapon systems' resiliency. The ARA will accept submissions through specific calls until October 11, 2025, without currently soliciting proposals. The estimated program cost is approximately $808 million, anticipating multiple contracts ranging from $1 million to $200 million. Two primary technical areas of interest are highlighted: assessing platform cyber security and developing cyber-hardened and resilient platforms. The ARA aims for offerings that demonstrate technological advancements in modeling, simulation, and system integration for multi-domain operational environments. Interested parties can communicate with government representatives to clarify requirements but should only expect guidance on fundamental knowledge without impacting competitive advantage. The submission process is detailed, categorizing proposals as one-step or two-step procedures, with specific formatting and content requirements outlined, while adhering to various government standards and regulations.