Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) Open Announcement
ID: FA9451-21-S-0001Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA9451 AFRL RDKKIRTLAND AFB, NM, 87117, USA

NAICS

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

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEFENSE-RELATED ACTIVITIES; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AC33)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA), aimed at advancing directed energy technologies critical for national defense. This open announcement invites white papers and proposals through a two-step process to conduct research and development, modeling and simulation, and testing of directed energy systems and components, with a focus on innovative solutions that enhance military capabilities. The initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between government and industry to foster cutting-edge technologies, with multiple award mechanisms anticipated, including contracts and cooperative agreements. Interested parties can submit white papers via the designated link and should direct inquiries to Mr. Bill Sherrod at afrl.deter.ara@us.af.mil.

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    The Directed Energy Technology Experimentation and Research (DETER) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) provides guidelines for submitting proposals related to directed energy research relevant to national defense. It encourages innovative approaches and agile contracting for advanced R&D, emphasizing the need for experimental technology that aligns with specific topic areas under 10 U.S.C. §4023. The document outlines a structured process for submissions, including a two-step call for white papers and full proposals, with distinct evaluation criteria focusing on technical merit, relevance, and value/cost. Multiple award mechanisms are available, including grants, cooperative agreements, and other transactions. Assistance instruments foster partnerships between the government and recipients for research projects with varying degrees of involvement. The ARA aims to stimulate collaboration while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines, facilitating the acquisition of cutting-edge technologies for military applications. Overall, the DETER initiative exemplifies the government’s commitment to leveraging innovative solutions to enhance national security.
    The document is currently inaccessible as it is a placeholder message regarding Adobe Reader compatibility issues. It does not provide any content related to federal government RFPs, federal grants, or state and local RFPs. Therefore, no main topic, key ideas, or supporting details can be identified or summarized. The intended analysis and summary cannot be conducted due to the absence of relevant material in the file, limiting any discussion of government contracting processes or grant opportunities that would typically be present in such documents. In order to complete the task, the actual document content must be reviewed rather than an error message related to software functionality.
    The Security Program Questionnaire is designed to evaluate the security measures and practices of institutions seeking research funding. It requires completion by the contractor or recipient and is reviewed by the S&T Protection Lead. The questionnaire encompasses key areas such as physical security plans, information security processes, data storage methods, and procedures for information transmission, disposal, reproduction, and personnel access. Furthermore, it addresses protocols for safeguarding Government-Furnished Equipment/Information (GFE/GFI), cybersecurity measures, operations security to prevent adversary access, insider threat mitigation, and response to information compromise incidents. Finally, it inquires about the willingness to provide annual AFRL S&T Protection training to all personnel with access to sensitive information. This document is crucial within the context of government RFPs and grants, signaling the importance of robust security practices in managing federally funded research efforts.
    The AFRL DETER/TACTICAL/RAD (version 2.0) document outlines evaluation criteria for proposals addressing problems within the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The main focus is on assessing technical merit through multiple indicators, including the clarity of the problem being solved, proposed solutions, degree of innovation, risk mitigation strategies, and relevant experience. Proposals are expected to provide a succinct problem description and solution summary, emphasizing innovation and potential impact. Evaluation also considers the soundness of the scientific approach, the qualifications of technical personnel, and the adequacy of facilities and resources. Additionally, applicants must present a reasonable project schedule, align their solutions with AFRL programs, and demonstrate the value of their contributions against associated risks and costs. Evaluation weights include 30% for technical merit, 20% for importance/relevance, and 20% for value/cost. Overall, the document serves to guide applicants in the proposal process, ensuring that solutions align with AFRL's strategic interests and funding availability.
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