The U.S. Department of the Army is soliciting research proposals under a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for innovative technologies in emerging weapons and munitions systems as well as soldier lethality technologies, valid from December 18, 2020, to December 17, 2025. The announcement covers a wide range of technology areas, including advanced materials, electronics, manufacturing technologies, and various facets of autonomy, aiming to enhance the Army’s readiness and modernization strategies. Interested participants are encouraged to submit white papers and proposals which will be evaluated based on technical merits, potential contributions to the Army, and the organization's capabilities.
The U.S. Department of the Army issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeking research proposals for innovative technologies to enhance emerging weapons systems and soldier lethality. This BAA, effective from December 18, 2020, to December 17, 2025, encourages collaboration between government, industry, and academia to advance military capabilities. The research areas of interest include advanced materials, electronics, autonomy, and artificial intelligence, focusing on critical components such as fire control systems, energetic materials, logistics, and environmental sustainability. Proposers are encouraged to submit white papers and full proposals for projects that demonstrate novel concepts in addressing the Army's modernization priorities, such as long-range precision fires and soldier lethality. The announcement mandates a competitive selection process, ensuring compliance with federal acquisition regulations and promoting equal participation. Additionally, it stresses the importance of reducing costs, improving manufacturing technologies, and ensuring technological advancements contribute to overall battlefield effectiveness. Proposals should aim for multi-domain operation capabilities, aligned with the Army’s modernization strategy.
The document addresses clarifying questions regarding the submission of White Papers for the federal solicitation W15QKN-21-R-0ER7. It confirms that Technical Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) will evaluate the White Papers, advising submitters to tailor their technical content accordingly. While only one White Paper per Topic Area is permitted, similar submissions across different areas are allowed. The government is unable to specify a timeline from submission to award, ensuring that submissions are evaluated based on the stated criteria. Additionally, the 5-page limit for White Papers encompasses the Technical Discussion, Support Identification, and Cost portions but excludes the Cover Page and a one-page Addendum. Graphics are allowed but will count towards the 5-page limit. Overall, the document aims to provide essential guidelines for prospective submitters, ensuring clarity and compliance with submission requirements in the context of government RFP processes.