Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)
ID: HR001125S0009Type: 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)
Timeline
  1. 1
    Posted Mar 12, 2025, 12:00 AM UTC
  2. 2
    Updated Apr 23, 2025, 12:00 AM UTC
  3. 3
    Due Jun 3, 2025, 5:00 PM UTC
Description

The Department of Defense, through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is soliciting proposals for the "Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)" initiative, aimed at enhancing the security of AI-enabled military systems against adversarial attacks. The program seeks to establish a framework for operational assessments of AI systems deployed in battlefield environments, focusing on developing AI red teaming tools to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in both ground and aerial autonomous systems. This initiative is critical as it addresses the increasing reliance on AI technologies in defense strategies and the need for robust security measures to ensure operational effectiveness. Interested parties must submit their proposals by May 6, 2025, with an abstract deadline of March 31, 2025, and can direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at SABER@darpa.mil.

Point(s) of Contact
BAA Coordinator
SABER@darpa.mil
Files
Title
Posted
The document outlines the abstract submission requirements for the "Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)" Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) by DARPA. Proposals must include a comprehensive submission following specified guidelines, including an abstract that does not exceed five pages, including all design elements but excluding the cover sheet, table of contents, and bibliography. The submission should detail the project's innovative aspects, technical approach, and team capabilities. Proposers should clearly articulate how their proposed solutions align with the program goals, address potential challenges, and outline cost estimates. Furthermore, DARPA encourages an initial abstract submission for feedback prior to full proposal submission, although this does not guarantee proposal acceptance. Submitted abstracts must be received by the deadline, with conformity to the requirements being essential for review. The document emphasizes the need for careful marking of proprietary information and proper formatting standards for all submissions.
This document outlines the submission requirements for abstracts in response to a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). All abstract submissions must adhere to a specified format using the Abstract Summary Slide Template, which requires essential components to be presented in a Microsoft PowerPoint format with designated naming conventions. Documents must be written in English and formatted for standard printing dimensions with specific font size guidelines. Key components of the Abstract Summary Slide include: a title section, organization details, a graphic, a description of the problem being addressed and project goals, innovative ideas being proposed, and an overview of existing approaches or the current state-of-the-art. Content in blue font serves as guidance and is to be deleted prior to submission. Compliance with these requirements is crucial as abstracts not conforming to the outlined format risk being excluded from review. This document serves to facilitate the efficient evaluation of proposals within the government’s federal grant and RFP framework.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The document outlines a federal contract with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), focusing on the procurement of supplies and services under a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) structure. It specifies contractor obligations, including providing deliverables as per the accompanying Statement of Work (SOW) and additional requirements. Key sections detail the scope of services, inspection and acceptance procedures, billing instructions, and special contract clauses necessary for compliance. The contract emphasizes adherence to provisions related to safeguarding sensitive information and acknowledges the importance of timely reporting of progress, financial status, and invention disclosures. The document also stipulates conditions regarding personnel and restrictions on information dissemination, underscoring the government's oversight in managing contract performance and deliverables. Overall, it encapsulates the legal and operational framework guiding the contractor's duties and relationship with the government, reflecting the standards and procedures typical of federal grants and requests for proposals (RFPs).
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The document outlines a government contract administered by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) related to a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) arrangement. It specifies the contractor's responsibilities to deliver various supplies and services, as detailed in attachments that include a Statement of Work. The contract allows for graduated oversight through provisions for the inspection and acceptance of deliverables, guidance on invoicing via the Wide Area Workflow (WAWF), and stipulations for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Additionally, the contractor is required to submit reports—including research and financial status updates—within designated timelines, adhering to detailed guidelines for content and format. Key personnel associated with the contract are highlighted, and any changes require prior notification to the contracting officer. The contract emphasizes compliance with federal regulations, including equal opportunity provisions, travel expense guidelines, and the management of government property. Overall, this document serves as a comprehensive framework for the contractual obligations and expectations between DARPA and the contractor, aimed at project execution, fiscal responsibility, and regulatory adherence.
The Baseline Model Contract Addendum outlines supplemental clauses applicable to federal contracts based on their monetary thresholds. Contracts valued over $2 million include clauses such as limitations on pass-through charges, requirements for certified cost or pricing data, contractor business systems, and various pension-related stipulations. Additional requirements arise for contracts above $5 million, including post-award disclosures related to employment in China. Contracts exceeding $6 million must adhere to ethics and conduct regulations, while those over $15 million require reports of intended performance outside the U.S. and Canada. Special provisions apply to contracts involving classified information, access to educational institutions, and options to extend contract terms. The document serves as a guideline for understanding the incremental requirements essential for compliance across a spectrum of contract values, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in government contracting processes. Ultimately, it aids stakeholders in navigating the contractual landscape effectively.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The document outlines an agreement between the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and a nontraditional defense performer for a research and development project focused on prototype development under the Other Transaction authority pursuant to 10 U.S.C. § 4022. It specifies aspects such as the scope of the agreement, financial obligations, project administration, and management responsibilities. Key provisions include milestone payment structures, patent rights, data rights, foreign access to technology, and safeguarding classified information. The agreement highlights the critical role of the research in advancing military and commercial technology, emphasizing continuous government involvement and the importance of achieving practical applications. Provisions for dispute resolution, compliance with civil rights, and public release of information are also included. The agreement ensures strict controls over technology access due to national security considerations, reflecting a commitment to securing evolved capabilities and ensuring accountability in the research and development process. This agreement demonstrates the government’s approach to fostering innovation while safeguarding national interests.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The document outlines the Agreement Number HR0011-XX-3-XXXX established between the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and a specified performer for a research and development program. The primary purpose of this agreement is to advance critical technology through a coordinated effort between DARPA and the performer, addressing current technological deficiencies and promoting innovations with both military and commercial applications. Key components include provisions for project management, funding obligations, and milestone payments tied to specific deliverables, as well as stipulations regarding patent rights and data rights. The agreement emphasizes safeguarding government interests, particularly the protection of covered defense information (CDI) and compliance with cybersecurity protocols. Further, the document establishes guidelines for resolving disputes, outlines the procedures for the management and reporting of inventions, and enumerates obligations related to technology transfer to foreign entities. Overall, this agreement exemplifies DARPA's commitment to fostering industrial collaboration while ensuring national security and technology protection.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) entitled "Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)" aimed at developing a framework for operational testing and evaluation (OT&E) of AI-enabled military systems. The program seeks innovative approaches to assess vulnerabilities in AI within battlefield environments through the establishment of a red teaming construct. Key deadlines are set for various proposal submissions, with an emphasis on extending timelines for classified proposals. The BAA outlines specific technical areas, including counter-AI techniques, integration methods, and operational dynamics surrounding AI systems, specifically for autonomous ground and air capabilities. Multiple awards are anticipated for proposals targeting the development of AI attack techniques and the integration of tools into a coherent framework for delivering effective AI attack effects. Evaluation criteria will focus on scientific merit, contribution to DARPA's mission, and cost realism. The SABER program highlights the urgency of addressing AI vulnerabilities identified in prior research and aims to create a replicable model for securing AI technologies in military applications, ensuring effectiveness and robustness in real-time deployments.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) focuses on the Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER) program. Its purpose is to solicit innovative proposals to enhance the security of AI-enabled battlefield systems against vulnerabilities to adversarial attacks. The document outlines the timeline for key submission dates, expected multiple award types, and the roles of technical teams involved in the program. Key areas of research include developing AI attack effect techniques and integration into a unified operational framework for red teaming assessments. The program will conduct Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E) exercises to evaluate and quantify the operational impact of AI vulnerabilities, particularly regarding ground and air autonomy. In aiming to secure AI applications on the battlefield, the BAA highlights the importance of addressing potential exploitable vulnerabilities and fostering innovative solutions through collaboration between government, industry, and academic entities. Successful submissions will be evaluated based on technical merit, alignment with DARPA's mission, and cost realism. Importantly, classification of proposals as either unclassified or requiring security clearance is emphasized, underlining the sensitive nature of the work.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)" (HR001125S0009) to solicit innovative proposals aimed at enhancing the security of AI systems in military applications. The goal of the SABER initiative is to create and implement a framework for operational assessments of AI-enabled battlefield systems through the development of AI red teaming tools. Applicants are encouraged to propose methods for attacking AI systems while considering operational realities, focusing on both ground and air autonomy. Key dates include a proposal abstract deadline of March 31, 2025, and proposal submissions due by May 6, 2025. The program seeks multiple awards for research performers engaged in the assessment and development of counter-AI technologies, integrating techniques that consider various cyber, electronic warfare, and adversarial strategies. Success will be measured by the AI Red Team Effectiveness Metric (ARTE), evaluating the performance, cost, and time-efficiency of developed attack methods. This initiative reflects a commitment to address vulnerabilities in AI, demonstrating the U.S. government's recognition of the increasing importance of AI in defense strategies and the need for robust security measures within operational contexts.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The government document outlines submission requirements for proposals under a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). It emphasizes that all proposals must adhere to specified templates, including a Proposal Summary Slide Template, and must include the DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet to be considered complete. Proposals must be in English, formatted for standard paper size, and use prescribed font sizes. The Proposal Summary Slide must cover the proposed technical approach, its rationale, project organization, milestones, and cost estimates segmented by phase. Essential components include addressing key program challenges, innovative solutions, and identified risks with mitigation strategies. Team organization and a compact project schedule are also highlighted as necessary elements. This document serves as a critical guide for organizations seeking federal grants and RFP opportunities, ensuring clarity and compliance in the proposal submission process.
The document serves as the Proposal Instructions and Volume I Template for the "Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness" (SABER) project, governed by a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). Proposers are required to utilize structured templates for submission while staying within strict formatting guidelines, including a 20-page limit for the Technical and Management Volumes. Submissions must be in English and follow specific naming conventions. The proposal must encompass essential sections such as a summary of the project, intended impact, technical rationale, management plan, and statement of work. Each area addresses unique aspects including project objectives, innovative solutions, team qualifications, and deliverable timelines. Proposals involving governmental entities or Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) must include eligibility proof. The document emphasizes transparency regarding organizational conflicts of interest and intellectual property rights while outlining requirements for potential team members. Overall, it highlights the need for detailed, concise proposals focusing on innovative approaches relevant to military AI applications, aiming to enhance battlefield effectiveness. Submissions are to be submitted by the specified deadline to be considered for evaluation.
The document outlines the proposal instructions for the Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001125S0009. It mandates the use of specific templates (P1 to P4) for submission, detailing formatting requirements and page limitations for various sections, particularly Volume I (Technical and Management), which is capped at 20 pages. Key components of the proposal include a summary of the project, its impact, a technical plan with implementation strategies, a management plan outlining team structure, and a summary of personnel qualifications. Proposals must clarify the novelty of the approach, address potential technical challenges, and provide measurable milestones. The document emphasizes a structured submission process and the importance of submitting proposals by the designated deadline. Additionally, it includes sections on the Statement of Work, personnel roles, organizational capabilities, and specific guidelines related to intellectual property rights and potential organizational conflicts of interest. This information is critical for organizations looking to secure funding through federal grants and RFPs, as it provides clear expectations and requirements for successful proposal submissions to advance technology in military applications.
The document outlines the proposal submission requirements for the Securing Artificial Intelligence for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER) initiative under a government Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). Proposers must follow specific format guidelines including using designated templates in various file formats to ensure their proposals are comprehensive. The proposal must include a Cost Volume that details all cost components, ensuring traceability between tasks and costs. It necessitates the use of the DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet for all organizations involved, including subcontractors, to expedite analysis and negotiations. The document specifies additional requirements such as certified cost data for procurement contracts and documentation of small business subcontracting plans. A detailed breakdown of costs, including direct labor, materials, travel, and consultant charges, is mandated, along with thorough supporting documentation to substantiate estimates. Emphasis is placed on compliance with cost accounting standards and maintaining clear communication about costs between prime contractors and subcontractors. The structured requirements ensure clarity in submissions, enabling a streamlined review and selection process for proposals aimed at enhancing defense capabilities through artificial intelligence.
Apr 23, 2025, 6:09 PM UTC
The DARPA Standard Cost Proposal Spreadsheet provides a structured template for proposers, including prime contractors and subcontractors, to submit cost data for federal contracts, grants, and RFPs. The spreadsheet outlines comprehensive requirements for the proposal, including direct and indirect labor costs, overhead, subcontracts, consultations, and general administrative costs. It emphasizes the necessity of detailed documentation to support proposed expenses, clarifying that unpriced options will be excluded from the award. Respondents are instructed on using the various tabs to input cost details for the base period and associated options. Proposers must justify cost rationales to facilitate rapid governmental review and approval. Notably, proposed monthly efforts must align with fiscal years, and the cumulative data across tabs must equal the total summarized costs. Furthermore, the document notes that those with certified cost or pricing data over specific thresholds are required to submit additional detailed justifications. This structured approach ensures transparency and accountability, which are vital in complex procurement processes, enhancing efficiency in federal contracting and grant evaluations.
Lifecycle
Title
Type
Solicitation
Similar Opportunities
Strategic Technology Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement
Buyer not available
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for its Strategic Technology Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001125S0001, aimed at funding innovative research that leads to revolutionary advances in technology for national security. Proposals should focus on disruptive technologies across various domains, including artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and robotics, while avoiding evolutionary improvements to existing practices. This initiative is critical for developing new capabilities that enhance the U.S. military's operational effectiveness and adaptability in complex environments. Interested organizations, including small and minority-owned businesses, must submit their proposals by October 31, 2025, and are encouraged to contact the BAA Coordinator at HR001125S0001@darpa.mil for further information.
NeedipeDIA Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), Call # CSO-0025-001, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Task Force SABRE
Buyer not available
The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is seeking innovative proposals through the NeedipeDIA Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), specifically Call CSO-0025-001, focused on developing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities. The objective is to enhance operational decision-making for warfighters by addressing specific technical gaps identified by the DIA, with an emphasis on revolutionary AI/ML prototype projects that can significantly improve existing capabilities or introduce new solutions. Interested vendors are invited to submit two-page white papers by April 30, 2025, with a follow-on proposal due by May 23, 2025, and the potential for contract awards anticipated in June 2025. For inquiries, vendors may contact Il Jun Yun at iljun.yun@dodiis.mil or the NeedipeDIA Inbox at ideas2action@dodiis.mil.
Program Announcement for Artificial Intelligence Exploration (AIE)
Buyer not available
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for its Artificial Intelligence Exploration (AIE) program, aimed at advancing AI technologies critical to national security. This initiative seeks innovative and high-risk projects that can lead to significant advancements in AI, with funding typically provided through Other Transactions for Prototype agreements, capped at $1 million per project, and requiring cost sharing in some cases. The AIE program emphasizes a two-phase structure, consisting of a Phase 1 Feasibility Study and a Phase 2 Proof of Concept, with specific performance durations and evaluation criteria focused on scientific merit and relevance to DARPA's objectives. Interested parties can reach out to the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PA-25-03@darpa.mil for further details and guidance on proposal submissions.
Broad Agency Announcement Emerging Technologies
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, through the U.S. Army's Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Armaments Center, has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeking innovative research proposals focused on emerging technologies related to weapons, munitions systems, and soldier lethality. The BAA aims to advance the Army's modernization efforts by soliciting proposals in various technology areas, including advanced materials, autonomy, electronics, and artificial intelligence, with an emphasis on fostering collaboration between industry and academia. This initiative is critical for enhancing the Army's operational capabilities and ensuring readiness for future multi-domain operations. Proposals and white papers may be submitted continuously until December 17, 2025, and interested parties are encouraged to contact the Technical Point of Contact, Carlos Quispe, at carlos.f.quispe.civ@army.mil for guidance on proposal preparation.
Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide BAA
Buyer not available
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for its Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), aimed at soliciting innovative research ideas that can lead to revolutionary advancements in national security applications. Proposals should focus on novel approaches rather than incremental improvements, covering key research areas such as Novel Materials & Structures, Sensing & Measurement, and Emerging Threats. This initiative is crucial for fostering advanced research that aligns with DARPA's mission to enhance national defense capabilities. Interested organizations can submit proposals until September 26, 2025, and should direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at HR001124S0039@darpa.mil.
Biological Technologies
Buyer not available
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative research proposals under its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Biological Technologies, aimed at enhancing national security through advancements in various biological technology areas. This opportunity invites revolutionary research ideas that are not currently addressed by ongoing programs, with a focus on topics such as machine learning applications, human performance enhancement, and biosecurity measures. Proposals will be evaluated based on scientific merit, relevance to DARPA's mission, and cost realism, with submissions accepted on a rolling basis until September 18, 2025. Interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at BTOBAA2024@darpa.mil for further information and guidance on submission requirements.
SDA Battle Management Mission Applications (Program BAA)
Buyer not available
The U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to procure innovative software applications to enhance situational awareness and decision-making capabilities for military space operations. The focus is on developing containerized applications for the Battle Management Command, Control, and Communications (BMC3) module of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) system in Low Earth Orbit. The solicitation seeks cutting-edge solutions from vendors for several key areas, including BMC3 management, power and resource optimization, and cybersecurity, with an emphasis on near-real-time performance and proactive measures. Vendors are invited to submit White Papers for initial review, leading to potential invitations for full proposals. The agency prioritizes rapid deployment, encouraging bidders to propose schedules accordingly. Important deadlines include the submission of White Papers by June 19th, 2024, and Proposals by May 19th, 2025. The SDA reserves the right to issue amendments and extend deadlines, with selections made based on technical merit, mission relevance, and available funding. Contact ussf.pentagon.sda.mbx.FA240124S0002@mail.mil for more information.
Air Dominance Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Air Dominance" (FA8651-25-S-0001) to solicit proposals for advanced research and technology development in support of air dominance capabilities. This opportunity encompasses 13 key research areas, including missile electronics, guidance technologies, and artificial intelligence, aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and reliability of U.S. military munitions systems. The BAA is open for five years, with an estimated funding pool of $750 million, encouraging submissions from a wide range of organizations, including small businesses. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Amy Fortenberry at amy.fortenberry.1@us.af.mil or Pamela King-Hasberry at pamela.king-hasberry.1@us.af.mil, and are advised to submit white papers for initial evaluation as part of the proposal process.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND NEXT GENERATION DISTRIBUTED COMMAND AND CONTROL
Buyer not available
The Department of the Air Force is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7006 focused on advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Next Generation Distributed Command and Control (C2) capabilities. This initiative aims to explore and develop innovative AI applications that enhance military decision-making and operational efficiency across strategic, operational, and tactical levels, particularly in contested environments. With a total funding of approximately $99 million available until August 30, 2028, the BAA anticipates multiple awards ranging from $200,000 to $20 million, with white paper submissions encouraged by specific deadlines for each fiscal year. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Mr. Gennady Staskevich at gennady.staskevich@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further details.
CAPABILITIES FOR CYBER ADVANCEMENT
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, through the Department of the Air Force, is soliciting proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Capabilities for Cyber Advancement" to develop innovative technologies aimed at achieving cyber superiority for military operations. This initiative seeks next-generation solutions that can be integrated into warfighting capabilities, focusing on areas such as cloud security, autonomous cyber defense, and trusted hardware. With an estimated funding of approximately $975 million available until December 1, 2025, the BAA will accept initial submissions as white papers, leading to formal proposals by invitation only. Interested parties must comply with eligibility requirements, as participation is limited to U.S.-owned entities, and are encouraged to submit their white papers by specific fiscal year deadlines to align with funding availability. For further inquiries, contact Todd Cushman at afrl.riga.baa@us.af.mil or (315) 330-4895.