The Department of the Air Force's Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA8750-25-S-7006, titled “Applications for Cyber Warfare: Genesis,” seeks white papers for next-generation cyber warfare capabilities. With approximately $999 million in total funding and individual awards ranging from $10 million to $50 million (up to $99.99 million), the Air Force aims to develop cyber operations prototypes for operational DoD platforms. This two-step ARA, open until September 30, 2030, prioritizes white papers for FY26-FY30 funding. Proposals will be evaluated on scientific merit, relevance to Air Force objectives, and cost realism. Eligibility is restricted to U.S. entities, with strict guidelines for foreign participation and organizational conflicts of interest. The ARA emphasizes the importance of secure cyberspace, aligning with the DoD’s cyber strategy to prepare for and win wars while building enduring advantages in the cyber domain. Offerors must adhere to specific submission guidelines, including S&T protection requirements and accounting system compliance.
AMENDMENT 1 to ARA FA8750-25-S-7006, titled “Applications for Cyber Warfare: Genesis,” modifies an Advanced Research Announcement by updating the email address for the ARA Program Manager, Thomas Parisi, to AFRL.RI.HELLFIRE@us.af.mil. This two-step open ARA seeks white papers for next-generation cyber warfare capabilities, including cyber platforms and weaponry, to support DoD objectives in cyberspace. The total estimated funding is approximately $999M, with individual awards ranging from $10M to $50M, and potentially up to $99.99M, over a maximum of sixty months. White papers are accepted until September 30, 2030, with suggested submission dates for optimal funding alignment with fiscal years 2026-2030. Key criteria for evaluation include scientific/technical merit, relevance to Air Force objectives, offeror domain knowledge, and cost reasonableness. Foreign participation is generally restricted, with exceptions for fundamental research or entities with approved Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) mitigation plans. Proposals must adhere to specific formatting, and awardees will be subject to security risk reviews and compliance with various federal regulations regarding S&T protection, data rights, and reporting.