Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) Test and Evaluation Support RFI Dept Of Defense
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking information through a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), specifically for Test and Evaluation (T&E) support. The initiative aims to gather insights on available infrastructure, equipment, and expertise to facilitate verification and validation (V&V) services for quantum computing projects, which are crucial for developing utility-scale quantum computers and ensuring their functionality. This RFI invites responses from industry and academia to identify capable technical teams that can contribute to extensive V&V efforts, with submissions due by September 27, 2024. Interested parties can contact Dr. Joseph Altepeter at QBI@darpa.mil for further information.
LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC) Dept Of Defense
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Army, has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notice for the procurement of the LPS Qubit Collaboratory (LQC). The LQC is a collaborative research initiative between the U.S. Army Research Office (ARO) and NSA's Laboratory for Physical Science (LPS) focused on qubit development for quantum computing and other applications such as sensing. The goal of the LQC is to pursue disruptive fundamental research and enabling technologies, build collaborative partnerships, and develop a quantum workforce for the future. The notice seeks proposals from the public and private sectors to advance solutions through collaborative research. The LQC Research Thrusts, technical areas of interest, will be pursued through Incubator and Collaboration agreements. Additionally, the notice calls for Quantum Computing Research (QuaCR) Graduate and Postdoctoral Fellowships to support talented U.S. citizen researchers in the field of quantum information processing and quantum sensing. The LQC aims to solve the most difficult and long-term Quantum Information Science & Technology (QIST) research problems and create a pathway for technology development and transition opportunities.
QUANTUM INFORMATION SERVICES Dept Of Defense
Presolicitation DEPT OF DEFENSE DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE is seeking Quantum Information Services. This service is typically used to support the implementation and use of Command, Control, Communications, Computers & Intelligence (C4I)-related information and communications technologies and techniques. The Air Force Research Laboratory - Information Directorate (AFRL/RI) is soliciting white papers for research, design, development, concept testing, evaluation, experimentation, integration, and delivery of Quantum Information Sciences. The service will focus on advancing and assessing advanced algorithm designs and technologies harnessing emerging quantum computing techniques to support AFRL/RI’s C4I mission. The estimated funding for this service is approximately $49.9M. Multiple awards are anticipated, and the type of instruments that may be awarded include procurement contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or other transactions (OT) depending upon the nature of the work proposed. For more information, contact Kristi Mezzano at AFRL.RIT.Quantum@us.af.mil.
Microsystems Technology Office (MTO) Office-wide Dept Of Defense
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), through its Microsystems Technology Office (MTO), has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeking revolutionary research ideas in the realm of microsystems technology. The focus is on developing cutting-edge solutions that advance DARPA's mission and address national security challenges.
This BAA aims to procure high-risk, high-reward technologies in three key areas:
Scientific Disruption: Exploring next-generation transistor technology, including photonic, quantum, and bio/organic circuits, and advancing photonic interconnects, quantum computing, and biomolecular computing.
Microsystems Manufacturing Ecosystem: Developing sustainable and efficient fabrication methods for advanced microsystems, with an emphasis on additive manufacturing, predictive process control, and material reuse.
Dual Use by Design: Strengthening the partnership between the DoD and commercial enterprises to ensure the rapid deployment of military microsystem technologies with commercial applicability.
DARPA seeks unique and innovative approaches that are not currently being explored in its ongoing programs or other published solicitations. The agency encourages proposals for a range of topics within these thrust areas, including fault-tolerant quantum computing, biochemical processors, and data-starved fabrication processes.
The agency plans to award multiple contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements for research and development. The BAA offers an accelerated contract award option for proposals with a cost limit of $2 million, ensuring a swift award within 30 days of selection. This option streamlines the process for procuring cost-reimbursement contracts and encourages applicants to opt for this efficient path.
Proposers should submit abstracts of no more than 6 pages by March 9, 2025, which will undergo an initial review for uniqueness and potential impact. Full proposals are due by May 9, 2025, and should include a technical and management volume as well as a cost volume, following the specified templates and guidelines.
The technical proposal should highlight the technical approach, SOW, schedules, and milestones, while the cost proposal must provide a comprehensive breakdown of expenses across various categories. Organizations seeking the accelerated award option should agree to the stipulated terms, including data rights assertions and fee limitations, and submit a completed DARPA cost proposal spreadsheet.
Proposals will be evaluated based on their scientific and technical merit, potential contribution to DARPA's mission, and cost realism. Besides the accelerated option, DARPA also emphasizes the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in its solicitations and expects proposers to adhere to the specified handling and marking instructions.
Interested organizations should contact Dr. Whitney Mason at HR001124S0028@darpa.mil for clarification or further information. The BAA encourages applicants to submit innovative solutions, focusing on the technical approach, impact, and potential for revolutionary advancements in microsystems technology.
Disruptioneering Program Announcement Dept Of Defense
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is announcing the Disruptioneering Program, inviting proposals for high-risk, high-reward research initiatives aimed at advancing national security applications. This program seeks to rapidly investigate new technologies through targeted Disruption Opportunities (DOs), enabling the development of innovative prototypes within a streamlined timeframe of less than 120 days from idea inception. Proposals must be unclassified and adhere to specific submission formats, with funding awards anticipated to reach up to $2 million, requiring a minimum one-third cost share. Interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PA-24-04@darpa.mil for further details and guidance on proposal submissions.
The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting white papers under Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7004 for research and development in the field of "Extreme Computing." The BAA aims to advance technologies in areas such as computational diversity, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and nanocomputing, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of Air Force platforms through energy-efficient and robust computing architectures. Approximately $497.9 million is allocated for this initiative, with individual awards typically ranging from $1 million to $3 million and lasting up to 36 months. Interested parties must submit white papers by September 20, 2028, with recommended submission dates throughout the fiscal years to optimize funding opportunities. For further inquiries, potential offerors can contact Dr. Nathan Inkawhich at nathan.inkawhich@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil.
Cyber Quest 2025 Broad Agency Announcement Dept Of Defense
The Department of Defense, specifically the Army Futures Command, is seeking innovative technologies through the Cyber Quest 2025 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to enhance Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) capabilities. This initiative aims to identify and evaluate solutions that address critical capability gaps in Cyber, Electronic Warfare, Intelligence, and Signal operations during an annual warfighting experiment scheduled for June 2-18, 2025, at Fort Eisenhower, Georgia. The event will facilitate collaboration among government entities, industry partners, and academic institutions, providing a realistic environment for technology demonstrations that align with future Army operational requirements. Interested parties must submit their proposals, including white papers and quad charts, by September 20, 2024, and can direct inquiries to the designated contacts, Sherrilyn Rice and Symone Y. Collins, via email or phone.
Neutron Strategic Technology Advanced Research (Neutron-STAR) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) Dept Of Defense
The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals under the Neutron Strategic Technology Advanced Research Announcement (Neutron-STAR ARA) for advanced research and development projects focused on enhancing national defense technologies. The primary objectives include nuclear-related research encompassing modeling and simulation of re-entry environments, materials characterization, nuclear explosion monitoring, and the design and experimentation of nuclear delivery systems. This initiative is critical for advancing U.S. nuclear deterrence capabilities and ensuring robust national security. Interested parties are encouraged to submit unclassified white papers to the Neutron STAR Org Mailbox at afrl.rvkb.afrlneutronstardms@us.af.mil, with no specified deadline for submissions, and are advised to refer to the attached Neutron Star Industry User Guide for detailed submission requirements and evaluation criteria.
OUSD R&E Seeks Industry Collaboration to Close Critical Capability Gaps Dept Of Defense
The Department of Defense (DoD) issues a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) under the auspices of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD R&E). The goal is to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative technologies to address critical capability gaps in defense applications.
This opportunity seeks to foster collaboration between the DoD and industry partners. The focus is on exchanging developmental capabilities and maturing technologies, specifically those falling within Technology Readiness Levels 3 through 7. The DoD aims to establish non-funded Information Exchange Agreements (IEAs) to facilitate the exchange of technical information. Additionally, Other Transaction (OT) agreements will be considered for research, prototyping, and potential follow-on production.
The BAA encourages submissions from a diverse range of organizations, including large businesses, small disadvantaged businesses, and minority institutions. These submissions should address specific Capability Focus Areas (CFA) detailed in periodic amendments. The initial CFA seeks concepts and technologies for assured space operations and improved multi-domain collaborative autonomy.
Interested parties should submit concise white papers or presentations outlining their concepts, technologies, or solutions. White papers should be limited to two pages, while presentations should not exceed four pages. Submissions will be evaluated based on their relevance, technical merit, and alignment with the DoD's objectives and mission.
The BAA will remain open for one year, and amendments containing new CFAs will be posted with a 45-day deadline for submissions. Virtual Industry Day is scheduled for June 28, 2024, providing an opportunity for potential applicants to gain further clarification and insight.
For general inquiries, contact the Washington Headquarters Services (WHS) RPAB through the provided email address. Technical questions should be directed to the designated Technical Point of Contact. Ensure that all submissions and inquiries reference the BOTA number HQ003424BOTA1.