Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities (ADEOC)
ID: FA8650-21-S-6005Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8650 USAF AFMC AFRL PZL AFRL/PZLWRIGHT PATTERSON AFB, OH, 45433-7541, USA

NAICS

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

PSC

GENERAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY R&D SVCS; GENERAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AJ13)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory, is soliciting proposals for the Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities (ADEOC) under a Hybrid Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) that extends until September 2028. This initiative aims to develop and transition technologies that enhance the health, performance, and safety of Air Force personnel, focusing on areas such as operator performance, protective equipment against novel weapons, and cognitive improvements for combat readiness. The program anticipates awarding multiple contracts with a total estimated value of $300 million, with individual awards ranging from $50,000 to $20 million. Interested parties should submit proposals electronically via DoD SAFE, adhering to specific guidelines, and can contact Stephanie Auld or Dan Harkins for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Dan Harkins (Contracting Specialist)
    daniel.harkins@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Hybrid Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8650-21-S-6005 by the Air Force Research Laboratory solicits white papers and proposals to develop technologies that enhance operator capabilities, focusing on the Airman Biosciences, Bioeffects, and Warfighter Interactions & Readiness Divisions, and remains open until September 11, 2028. It features a dual approach with both Closed Calls for specific research objectives and an Open Period for general proposals, emphasizing a two-step submission process where white papers are first evaluated to invite detailed proposals from selected offerors. The total estimated program cost is $300 million with anticipated contracts generally structured as Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF), allowing for multiple awards based on evaluations of technical merit and cost realism.
    The Hybrid Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8650-21-S-6005, issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory, seeks proposals for the Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities (ADEOC) over a period extending until September 2028. The ARA supports research in biotechnology, with a focus on enhancing the health, performance, and safety of Air Force personnel. It introduces a dual approach for proposal submissions: "Closed Calls," which request specific research proposals, and an "Open Period" for white papers addressing broader research objectives. The program anticipates awarding multiple contracts with a total estimated value of $300 million, allowing for awards from $50,000 to $20 million. Key areas of focus include developing technologies for operator performance, modeling human interactions in combat scenarios, and creating protective equipment against novel weapons. Submissions require adherence to format and content stipulations outlining technical approaches, deliverables, and cost details. The document emphasizes the government's commitment to fostering innovation while retaining rights to produced data and technologies. This ARA serves as a vital mechanism for advancing military capabilities through collaboration with research agencies and industry partners.
    The Hybrid Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8650-21-S-6005 aims to solicit proposals related to enhancing operator capabilities in biotechnology, with a total estimated value of $300 million, allowing multiple awards. This announcement will remain open until September 11, 2028, facilitating both closed calls for specific research objectives and an open application process for white papers. Proposals will undergo a two-step review process, with a focus on technical merit and cost realism, inviting only those white papers deemed competitive to submit detailed proposals.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is issuing a Hybrid Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) for the Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities (ADEOC) to solicit proposals and white papers over an open period until September 11, 2028. The ARA is structured to include both targeted Closed Calls and an Open Application process, allowing for the submission of white papers anytime within the open period, barring concurrent Closed Calls. The primary aim is to develop technologies that enhance the health, performance, and safety of military operators, as well as improve combat capabilities through personalized learning and cognitive enhancements. The estimated program cost is $300 million, with multiple awards expected for successful proposals. Organizations of all sizes can participate, and foreign participation is limited. Proposals must adhere to specific submission guidelines and formats, including separate technical and cost sections, and must be submitted electronically via DoD SAFE. The initiative is crucial in addressing operational challenges faced by the U.S. Air Force and Space Force by integrating advanced technology solutions into military operations. Security classifications and compliance with applicable laws and regulations are emphasized throughout the solicitation process.
    The Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) outlines objectives for the Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities (ADEOC) to improve the abilities of USAF Airmen and USSF Guardians amidst static personnel levels and rising mission demands. The focus is on developing innovative technologies to enhance operator performance, health, and safety through various product lines in biosciences, bioeffects, and warfighter readiness, with defined tasks for prototyping, experimentation, and systems integration towards operational application. Additionally, it establishes stringent security and ethical guidelines for working with human subjects and sensitive information.
    The Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) outlines the objectives for the Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities (ADEOC) by the Department of the Air Force. It emphasizes the need to enhance the capabilities of USAF Airmen and USSF Guardians amidst rising operational demands. The initiative led by the 711th Human Performance Wing aims to innovate technologies in three primary areas: Airman Biosciences, Bioeffects, and Warfighter Interactions & Readiness. Each division focuses on improving personnel health, safety, and performance through advanced technological solutions. The scope of this ARA includes the creation and deployment of prototypes for systems that monitor and enhance operator performance under physical and cognitive stressors. Key activities involve the development of wearable sensors, protective equipment, and technologies facilitating human-machine integration. The contractor will execute experimental tasks, ensuring compliance with security protocols for personnel and information. Overall, this document serves as a framework for soliciting proposals to foster technology developments critical to sustaining and advancing military operational capabilities, highlighting the government's commitment to ensuring that operators are duly equipped and prepared for complex missions.
    The document outlines various data item submissions required for a contract, detailing specific titles, submission timelines, distribution statements, and format requirements. Each data item, such as scientific reports, funds and man-hour expenditure reports, and technical data packages, includes guidelines for electronic submission and necessary markings for controlled unclassified information. Additionally, it specifies conditions regarding contractor responsibilities for report revisions and approvals from the Air Force Program Manager.
    The DD Form 1423-1 serves as the Contract Data Requirements List for the U.S. government, detailing mandatory submissions for contracts, particularly in defense. The form outlines essential data items such as scientific and technical reports, financial reports, and status reports among others, required by the 711th Human Performance Wing (HPW). Each item specifies data classifications, submission frequencies, addressees, and distribution statements, emphasizing the importance of proper documentation and encryption during electronic submissions. The document includes detailed guidelines for contractors on the specific formats to adhere to, including compliance with ANSI-based guidelines and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) marking protocols, aimed at safeguarding sensitive information. Each data item must be submitted on schedule, with specific requirements outlined for initial and subsequent submissions. Moreover, it stipulates the handling and distribution of technical data under government regulations, reinforcing the legal implications associated with the Arms Export Control Act and related export laws. Overall, the Form 1423-1 serves as a critical tool for managing data requirements, ensuring both accountability and compliance for contractor submissions within defense-related agreements.
    This document outlines the security classification and requirements for a Department of Defense contract requiring access to classified and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), necessitating a Top Secret Facility Security Clearance for contractors. It specifies the protocols for safeguarding classified information, including reporting incidents of compromise, adherence to National Industrial Security Program protocols, and restrictions on dissemination of information to unauthorized parties. Additionally, it emphasizes that all information pertaining to the contract is not to be publicly released without proper authorization and is subject to specific inspections and security management guidelines.
    The document is a DD Form 254, which outlines the security classification specifications for a Department of Defense contract titled "Advanced Development of Enhanced Operator Capabilities" (ADEOC). This solicitation seeks to advance technologies related to Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) under specific Air Force product lines. It requires a Top Secret security clearance for contractors and safeguarding measures for handling classified information, including Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). The contract specifies that any public release of information must be vetted through appropriate government channels. The contractor will handle various classified materials, ensuring compliance with multiple security policies and guidelines. The security management responsibilities, reporting of incidents, and obligations for notifications are clearly delineated. Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and communications security (COMSEC) controls are also noted, emphasizing the project’s sensitive nature and requirement for stringent security oversight. Overall, this document serves as a formal requirement for ensuring effective handling and safeguarding of classified materials within the federal contracting framework.
    The Data Assertions List (DAL) Guidance for the ADEOC Program outlines that assertions are limited to deliverables under the program, specifically related to Technical Data and Software, not Hardware. Each assertion must detail the item, include proper markings for the basis of assertion (such as developed exclusively or partially at private expense), and specify the asserted rights category (e.g., Limited Rights or SBIR Rights). An example provided illustrates the proper format for asserting technical data/software, including the intended use and associated rights.
    The ADEOC ARA Attachment #4 provides guidance on the Data Assertions List (DAL) for a specific government program, focusing on non-commercial assertions related to technical data and software deliverables. Key rules clarify that only deliverables linked to a Statement of Work (SOW) or Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) are accepted, explicitly excluding hardware. Each assertion must detail the technical data or software, allowing the government to identify the item, and must include appropriate markings for the basis of assertion and asserted rights category. The acceptable basis options are "Developed Exclusively at Private Expense," "Developed Partially at Private Expense," or "Developed under SBIR program," while the rights categories include "Limited Rights," "Restricted Rights," "Government Purpose Rights," and "SBIR Rights." An example illustrates the proper formatting of such assertions, indicating the use of pilot monitoring software and the associated rights. The overarching aim of this document is to ensure compliance and clarity in assertions related to government contracts, enhancing the management of intellectual property and rights associated with technical data and software.
    This document outlines a government solicitation for a contract, identified as FA8650-21-R-0002, for research and development services, including hardware and software deliverables. The contract is governed by specific Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses and emphasizes compliance with various procurement policies, including pricing, representations, certifications, and technical data management. Additionally, it stipulates that the contract will utilize a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) model with detailed requirements for deliverables and administration processes.
    The document presents a federal solicitation for a contract identified as FA8650-21-R-0002, specifically a research and development contract administered by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). It outlines the details, including the types of services sought, contract clauses, and the schedule for deliverables, which encompass hardware, software, and technical data packages. The contract operates on a Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee basis and requires that deliverables meet specific inspection and acceptance criteria. Key components involve the delivery of various items—such as research reports, hardware, software, and manuals—according to a designated timeline, with thorough documentation required at each phase. Provisions for invoicing and payment are detailed, including the use of the Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) system for electronic submissions. The document emphasizes the importance of safeguarding classified information and outlines the responsibilities of contractors in ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations. This solicitation serves the dual purpose of fostering innovation through research while maintaining stringent regulatory standards, ultimately supporting national defense and technological advancement.
    The "Proposal Adequacy Checklist" outlines required items and instructions for offerors to ensure compliance with FAR guidelines for proposal submissions. It includes questions about proposal content, documentation of cost data, labor estimates, indirect costs, and subcontractor pricing, requiring explanations for any missing information. The checklist serves as a tool for both offerors and contracting officers to assess the completeness and transparency of proposals submitted for government contracts.
    The Proposal Adequacy Checklist, revised in January 2014, outlines requirements for offerors submitting proposals related to federal government contracts, emphasizing compliance with various sections of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It serves as a systematic guideline to ensure completeness and accuracy of proposals by detailing specific criteria that must be met, including identification of government-furnished materials, compliance with Cost Accounting Standards, and the need for supporting data related to cost estimates. The checklist covers multiple aspects such as direct and indirect costs, subcontracting details, and any exceptions for certified cost or pricing data. Each item necessitates the disclosure of relevant information or an explanation when data is not provided. The structured nature of the checklist aims to facilitate efficient proposal reviews and enhance accountability in the contracting process, underscoring the importance of transparency and thoroughness in government procurements. This checklist ultimately supports the integrity of federal acquisitions by ensuring that proposals are adequately prepared for evaluation and decision-making.
    The Statement of Work (SOW) Supplemental Requirements outlines mandatory compliance for contractors, covering areas such as information disclosure, key personnel qualifications, and packaging norms. It emphasizes the need for U.S. citizenship for contractor employees accessing government sites, adherence to patent rights protocols, and the preference for American-made products. Additional stipulations include reporting obligations, management of base support, and guidelines for fundamental research to ensure public release compliance.
    The document outlines the Statement of Work (SOW) and supplemental requirements for a contract, specifically focusing on compliance with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) concerning the disclosure of information. Key sections emphasize the need for timely submission of information, the importance of contractor personnel qualifications, and procedures for packaging and marking sensitive materials. The contractor must notify the contracting officer about key personnel changes and ensure compliance with American-made product purchases. Base support, provided rent-free by the government, includes access to facilities and materials, though costs from inadequate support must be reported. The document also highlights security measures requiring U.S. citizenship for contractor employees accessing sensitive environments, reiterates the importance of patent rights reporting, and includes a comprehensive small business subcontracting plan. It underscores the significance of fundamental research within public domain guidelines. Overall, the SOW reinforces compliance, personnel management, and operational protocols vital for contract execution in government projects.
    The document requires Adobe Reader version 8 or higher for proper viewing. It may not load due to the absence of Adobe Reader or misconfiguration of the viewing environment. Installation and configuration instructions are available at the provided Adobe link.
    The document indicates an incompatibility issue with loading a specific government file that requires Adobe Reader 8 or newer. Users may face problems due to either the absence of Adobe Reader or incorrect configurations in their viewing settings. For resolution, guidance is provided through a link to Adobe's website, offering assistance on installation and configuration of Adobe Reader. The context suggests the document may pertain to federal government RFPs or grants potentially needing a digital format for access to necessary forms or applications, reinforcing the importance of proper technology setup for engagement with governmental processes.
    The Security Program Questionnaire is designed to evaluate the security practices of institutions that receive research funding, focusing on aspects such as physical security, information handling, and personnel safeguards. It collects detailed information through specific questions regarding security plans, information storage, transmission procedures, and the measures in place to protect against cybersecurity threats and insider risks. The responses are submitted by collaborators and reviewed by the S&T Protection Lead to ensure compliance and effectiveness of security protocols.
    The Security Program Questionnaire, associated with BAA No. XXXX, is designed to evaluate the security measures of institutions applying for federal research funding. It targets collaborators who need to provide comprehensive responses reviewed by the S&T Protection Lead. Key security areas covered include physical and information security plans, data storage methods, protocols for information transmission and disposal, and safeguards for personnel access. The questionnaire also addresses cybersecurity measures, operations security to counter adversaries, insider threat mitigation, and incident response in case of data breaches. Additionally, it asks if the applicant is willing to provide annual S&T Protection training for all personnel handling sensitive information. This tool aims to ensure that funded projects adhere to stringent security standards, mitigating risks associated with data vulnerabilities and safeguarding federally funded research efforts.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Similar Opportunities
    Multi-Spectrum Defensive Electronic Warfare (MSDEW) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has announced the Multi-Spectrum Defensive Electronic Warfare (MSDEW) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA), inviting proposals for research and development aimed at enhancing national defense capabilities in electronic warfare. The program focuses on developing advanced sensors and systems to improve joint lethality in contested environments, enabling the U.S. military to effectively strike diverse targets while under attack and operate across all domains. With an estimated funding of $396.6 million available until July 13, 2027, interested parties are encouraged to engage with government representatives prior to proposal submission, ensuring compliance with security classifications and operational safety regulations. For further inquiries, contact Kathryn Skaleski at kathryn.skaleski@us.af.mil or Richard Bailey at richard.bailey.26@us.af.mil.
    Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA2391-23-S-2403 for the "Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research" initiative. This opportunity aims to advance aerospace technologies through research and development efforts focused on innovative concepts and technologies that enhance military capabilities, particularly in propulsion and power systems. The initiative is critical for maintaining a technological edge in defense operations, with a projected funding ceiling of $200 million for various projects. Interested parties must submit their proposals electronically via DoD SAFE, with key deadlines for submissions varying by specific calls, including January 27, 2025, for the Aggressive Embedded Propulsion & Operability (AEPO) initiative. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact John McClellan at john.mcclellan.2@us.af.mil or Jac Cook at joseph.cook.39@us.af.mil.
    ADVANCED RESEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT (ARA) TITLE: CHARACTERIZATION AND ASSESSMENT FOR SPACE DOMAIN AWARENESS (SDA)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, has announced an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Characterization and Assessment for Space Domain Awareness (SDA)." This initiative aims to solicit research proposals focused on developing technologies for intelligent tasking, collection, processing, exploitation, analysis, and dissemination of data to enhance Space Domain Awareness and Space Superiority. The total funding available for this ARA is approximately $99 million, with individual awards typically ranging from $1 million to $10 million and lasting up to 48 months. Interested parties should submit white papers by 5 PM EST on July 12, 2029, and can direct inquiries to Carolyn Sheaff at Carolyn.Sheaff@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil for contractual questions.
    SIGNALS INFORMATION EXPLOITATION TECHNOLOGY ENHANCEMENTS (SIETE)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is announcing an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Signals Information Exploitation Technology Enhancements (SIETE)," aimed at soliciting innovative research to enhance signal processing and analytics for adversarial systems. The ARA seeks proposals that focus on developing algorithms and methodologies applicable to Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, with an emphasis on Open System Architecture for interoperability and compliance with security regulations. With a total funding amount of approximately $99.9 million available until December 31, 2026, individual awards typically range from $1 million to $5 million, with potential larger awards up to $24.9 million. Interested parties should direct inquiries and white paper submissions to Charles Estrella at charles.estrella@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil, ensuring adherence to submission guidelines and deadlines.
    Air Delivered Effects Broad Area Announcement
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the "Air Delivered Effects Broad Area Announcement" (BAA FA8651-22-S-0001), aimed at advancing research in conventional munitions technology over a five-year period. This initiative invites innovative research proposals in areas such as weapon systems technology, autonomous systems, explosive materials, and advanced simulation techniques, with a total funding amount anticipated to reach up to $750 million. The BAA emphasizes collaboration among educational institutions, industry, and small businesses, while ensuring compliance with federal regulations regarding security and data rights. Interested parties can contact Amy Fortenberry at amy.fortenberry.1@us.af.mil or Allison McCowan at allison.mccowan@us.af.mil for further information and guidance on proposal submissions.
    Resilient Open & Agile Avionics System & Technology Development (ROAASTD)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the Resilient Open & Agile Avionics System & Technology Development (ROAASTD) program, aimed at enhancing system resilience and agility to counter evolving global threats. The procurement seeks innovative technologies that enable rapid integration of advanced sensor and mission system capabilities, essential for maintaining a decisive military advantage in contested environments. This initiative is critical for ensuring the Air Force can effectively respond to sophisticated adversaries and meet warfighter needs in a timely manner. Interested offerors, including small and unrestricted businesses, must submit white papers by April 19, 2028, with a total program value of $30 million and anticipated awards ranging from $3 million to $6 million. For further inquiries, contact Sarah Ballard at sarah.ballard@us.af.mil or Richard Bailey at richard.bailey.26@us.af.mil.
    Advanced Cyber Effects for Strategic Operations (ACESO)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking white papers for the Advanced Cyber Effects for Strategic Operations (ACESO) program under the Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8750-25-S-7005. This initiative aims to develop cyber operations prototypes that can be transitioned into operational DoD platforms to enhance superiority in the Cyber Domain, focusing on technologies such as assured and zero-trust infrastructure, Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I), and Offensive Cyber Operations. With an estimated total funding of approximately $950 million, individual awards are expected to range from $10 million to $50 million, with the potential for awards up to $99.98 million, and the program is open for submissions until July 10, 2030. Interested parties should direct technical inquiries to Tanya Macrina at AFRL.RI.ACESO@us.af.mil and business inquiries to Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil.
    Applications for Cyber Warfare: Genesis
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Department of the Air Force, is seeking white papers for its Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Applications for Cyber Warfare: Genesis." This initiative aims to develop next-generation cyber warfare capabilities, including prototypes for operational Department of Defense platforms, to enhance superiority in the cyber domain. With an estimated total funding of approximately $999 million, individual awards are expected to range from $10 million to $50 million, with the potential for awards up to $99.99 million, over a maximum duration of sixty months. Interested parties must submit their white papers by September 30, 2030, with suggested submission dates aligned with fiscal years 2026 to 2030. For further inquiries, contact Thomas Parisi at AFRL.RI.HELLFIRE@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil.
    ADVANCED RESEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT (ARA) TITLE: ADVANCED TRACKING ARCHITECTURE USING AI (ATA-AI)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is issuing an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Advanced Tracking Architecture Using AI (ATA-AI)" to solicit innovative research for next-generation target tracking architectures. This initiative aims to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Machine Inferencing (MI) algorithms within a High-Performance Computing (HPC) framework, utilizing a diverse array of data sources for applications such as traffic monitoring and first responder assistance. The total estimated funding for this ARA is approximately $99 million, with individual awards typically ranging from $1 million to $10 million over a period of 48 months, and white papers are due by July 12, 2029. Interested parties should direct technical inquiries to Carolyn Sheaff at Carolyn.Sheaff@us.af.mil and contractual questions to Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil.
    ADVANCING SYSTEMS OF SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES FOR RAPID ADOPTION (ASTRA)
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is soliciting innovative research through the Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8750-23-S-7007, titled "Advancing Systems of Systems Technologies for Rapid Adoption (ASTRA)." This initiative aims to mature, prototype, demonstrate, and evaluate algorithms and methodologies for the rapid integration of Systems of Systems (SoS) and the auto-generation of tests for the STITCHES subsystem specifications. The program is critical for enhancing interoperability among Department of Defense systems and is expected to facilitate the development of advanced tools and technologies, including a DevOps Government cloud-based platform. The total funding for this ARA has been increased to approximately $350 million, with individual awards potentially reaching up to $99.9 million, and white papers are accepted until July 24, 2028. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Gerard Wohlrab at gerard.wohlrab@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further details.