The DARPA Disruption Opportunity (DO) DARPA-PA-24-04-05, titled "Higher-Order Composite Resonators for Extra Resilience (HORCREX)," invites innovative research proposals focused on novel micromechanical oscillators for precision positioning and navigation systems. The program aims to develop high-performance inertial sensors capable of operating in dynamic, GPS-denied environments. Despite advancements in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), current inertial sensors struggle with shock and vibration, limiting their effectiveness. The HORCREX initiative will explore mechanical frequency combs to create a single, resilient inertial sensor that combines sensitivity with shock resistance. Proposals must cover two phases: Phase 1 focuses on demonstrating a locked mechanical frequency comb, while Phase 2 involves scaling the design for real-world testing. The total funding for both phases is capped at $2 million, with a timeline of 24 months for completion. Proposals will be judged on their technical feasibility, innovative approaches, and potential to meet specific program metrics. This DO is part of DARPA's broader effort to advance disruptive technologies that enhance defense capabilities, emphasizing collaboration, rigorous testing, and thorough design evaluation. Submission deadlines and requirements for proposals, including eligibility criteria and electronic submission guidelines, are detailed to ensure a structured application process.

The document outlines the Schedule of Milestones and Payments related to a federal government project focused on the HORCREX microsystem platform. It details two primary phases of development, each with several technical presentations and milestone reports due at specified intervals, ranging from Month 1 to Month 24. Key deliverables include a presentation on the proposed microsystem, theoretical analysis, experimental assessments, and extensive evaluations of the HORCREX system's performance concerning defined program metrics. Phase 1 emphasizes initial design and simulations, while Phase 2 focuses on refining system performance and achieving specific frequency targets. Importantly, all proposed personnel must actively participate in the project at defined effort levels. This structured milestone framework aims to ensure comprehensive oversight and evaluation of the HORCREX project’s progress in meeting its technical and operational objectives, ultimately contributing to the optimization of the microsystem. The outlined exit criteria provide clear benchmarks for success throughout project implementation.