SPACE TECHNOLOGY ADVANCED RESEARCH-FAST-TRACKING INNOVATIVE SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE (STAR-FISH) ADVANCED RESEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT (ARA) WITH CALLS
ID: FA9453-21-S-0001Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA9453 AFRL RVKKIRTLAND AFB, NM, 87117, USA

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEFENSE-RELATED ACTIVITIES; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AC33)
Timeline
    Description

    Solicitation DEPT OF DEFENSE DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE is seeking proposals for the SPACE TECHNOLOGY ADVANCED RESEARCH-FAST-TRACKING INNOVATIVE SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE (STAR-FISH) ARA CALL005 Topic Area 1. This procurement is focused on Space Vehicle Functionality and Logistics, specifically Advanced Next Generation Strategic Radiation hardened Memory (ANGSTRM). The service/item being procured is advanced memory technology that is specifically designed to withstand radiation in space. The primary contact for this procurement is Francis Eggert (francis.eggert@spaceforce.mil, 5058465935) and the secondary contact is Jeffery Martinez (jeffery.martinez.1@spaceforce.mil, 5058466319). For detailed requirements and instructions, please review the CALL and attachments provided.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document outlines the United States Space Force's initiative to develop advanced radiation-hardened non-volatile memory (NVM) to meet the Department of Defense's requirements for space and strategic systems. It emphasizes the importance of achieving near-commercial performance and scalability while adhering to trusted on-shore manufacturing practices, aiming for a minimum storage density of 4 Gb monolithic devices and enhanced reliability in hostile environments. Proposals should address capabilities for sourcing, design, and production of these advanced NVM technologies, including a plan for commercialization and space qualification.
    The Department of Defense is seeking advanced strategic radiation-hardened non-volatile memory (NVM) technologies to enhance performance and density for space and strategic systems, addressing current limitations of state-of-the-practice solutions. Proposals should focus on leveraging commercial technologies with radiation hardening techniques and must meet specific performance criteria, including a minimum density of 4Gb for monolithic devices and scalability to 32Gb Multi-Chip Modules (MCM). Successful submissions will include development of a full-scale prototype, device characterization, and a pathway to qualify these technologies for military use within trusted on-shore fabrication facilities.
    The document outlines the Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) for the SPACE TECHNOLOGY ADVANCE RESEARCH (STAR) contract, detailing specific data items such as the Contract Funds Status Report, Scientific and Technical Reports, Quarterly Status Reports, and Presentation Material. Each item includes associated identification numbers, submission requirements, and distribution instructions, with an emphasis on compliance with applicable DoD directives for handling sensitive information. The CDRL is subject to quarterly reporting and has specific formatting and submission guidelines to ensure accuracy and security in data handling.
    The amendment to the Advanced Research Announcement FA9453-21-S-0001, dated February 16, 2023, updates the contracting points of contact, changing the primary and alternate contracting officers to Mr. Shawn Capehart and Mr. Daniel J. Alvarado, respectively. Their contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, has been provided in the updated announcement. This revision replaces the former contacts, Ms. Maria Parker and Ms. Deanna Salazar.
    The amendment to the Advanced Research Announcement FA9453-21-S-0001 alters the points of contact for contracting, changing the primary contact to Mr. Daniel J. Alvarado and listing Ms. Stephanie A. Harris as the alternate. The revised contact information reflects updated phone numbers and email addresses for both individuals. These modifications are effective as of November 6, 2023.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory is soliciting white papers for the development of advanced next-generation strategic radiation-hardened non-volatile memory (SRH NVM) under CALL 005, aimed at ensuring high reliability and performance in military space systems. The projects, with an anticipated funding of $40 million over several fiscal years, may result in up to three cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts with various development phases and options stretching over approximately 54 months. Interested parties must submit white papers by February 13, 2023, following a two-step process outlined in the announcement.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory is soliciting white papers for the Advanced Next Generation Strategic Radiation Hardened Memory (ANGSTRM) project, focusing on the development of strategic radiation-hardened non-volatile memory solutions for military applications. Up to three cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts may be awarded, with a total anticipated funding of $40 million over five years, subject to government budget decisions. Interested parties must submit a white paper by February 13, 2023, and contracts will involve a multi-phase development process to ensure compliance with performance and radiation requirements.
    The Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) FA9453-21-S-0001 by the Air Force Research Laboratory seeks proposals for research and development on various aspects of space-flight systems, including modeling, testing, and space debris management. The solicitation allows for a mixture of contract types up to $100 million and encourages dialogue between prospective offerors and government representatives. Offerors must register in the System for Award Management (SAM) and comply with export control regulations to participate.
    Similar Opportunities
    Space Technology Advanced Research (STAR)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, has issued a Combined Synopsis/Solicitation notice for the procurement of Space Technology Advanced Research (STAR). This procurement is for National Defense R&D Services, Defense-Related Activities, and Experimental Development. The primary contact for this procurement is Maria Fe Z. Parker, who can be reached at mariafe.parker@us.af.mil or 505-846-6188. The secondary contact is Daniel J. Alvarado, who can be reached at daniel.alvarado.12@us.af.mil or 505-853-6619. For more information, please refer to the open ARA announcement, Amendment 2 dated 15 Mar 2021.
    Neutron Strategic Technology Advanced Research (Neutron-STAR) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA)
    Active
    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.
    PROTECTED TACTICAL SATCOM -GLOBAL (PTS-G) Request for Proposal (RFP)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC), is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Protected Tactical SATCOM – Global (PTS-G) initiative. The government plans to competitively award up to four Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for PTS-G, along with the PTS-G Design and Demonstration Delivery Order 001. This procurement is crucial for enhancing military communications and positioning, navigation, and timing capabilities, which are vital for national security operations. Interested vendors must register for access to the Bidders’ Library and provide necessary information for a Facility Clearance check to receive classified requirements. For inquiries, contact Mr. Alejandro Capristan at alejandro.capristan.1@spaceforce.mil or Mr. Brett Beljak at brett.beljak.1@spaceforce.mil.
    RFI: Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP), Space Domain Awareness (SDA) Division, Space Domain Awareness Capabilities
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force District of Washington, is seeking information through a Request for Information (RFI) regarding capabilities and services related to Space Domain Awareness (SDA) as part of the Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP). The objective is to gather innovative and proven concepts that can effectively address threats in a dynamic space environment, with a focus on support to fires, surveillance of man-made objects, intelligence and reconnaissance, and environmental monitoring for the years 2030 to 2040. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the United States Space Force's operational capabilities and ensuring effective space operations. Interested parties must submit their concepts by November 14, 2024, to the designated email address, SpOC.SWAC.RFI@spaceforce.mil, and are encouraged to follow specific submission guidelines outlined in the RFI.
    FreeSol Broad Agency Annoucement
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, has issued a solicitation notice for the FreeSol Broad Agency Announcement. This announcement is centered around the Space Systems Command (SSC) Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power (SZ-BC) Program Executive Office (PEO) Advanced Technology Transition Branch. The purpose of this announcement is to invite innovative technical approach concept papers that address space and cyber technologies to counter emerging space threats. The goal is to enable capabilities that align with the United States Space Force (USSF) Strategic Intent and to leverage all sources of innovation, prototyping, and experimentation. The announcement emphasizes the need for integrated space and cyber solutions and encourages industry partnership, innovation, and cost reduction. The BAA is open for concept papers for a period of 60 months, through February 23, 2029. The anticipated ceiling for funding is up to $99 million over the 5-year active period, and the number of contract awards will depend on the scope and quality of proposals received. The BAA follows a two-step process, starting with the submission of concept papers, followed by the submission of full proposals for selected concept papers. The Government intends to award Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) or Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contracts. The BAA outlines five areas of research interest, including resiliency technologies, improvements to Space Domain Awareness (SDA), defensive and offensive counterspace capabilities, efficiencies in Battle Management Command Control and Communications (BMC3), and methods for advancing exercises, tests, and training environments. Concept papers should address one or more of these areas and provide a technical approach and operational impact. The evaluation of concept papers will consider relevance to space and cyber technologies, technical merit, affordability, achievability of the proposed schedule, and the impact of intellectual property/proprietary data. Selected concept papers will receive a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the submission of full proposals. It is important to note that the Government will not pay for any costs associated with the preparation of concept papers or proposals.
    Systems, Technologies, and Emerging Capabilities Broad Agency Announcement
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Space Development Agency (SDA), is soliciting proposals under the Systems, Technologies, and Emerging Capabilities (STEC) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for innovative concepts and technologies that enhance the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA). The SDA is specifically seeking proposals for engineering studies related to two key initiatives: on-demand space vehicle de-orbit services and a Network Orchestration capability for data transport between military and commercial satellite networks. These initiatives are critical for ensuring sustainable space operations and improving military capabilities in low Earth orbit. Interested parties must submit proposals for the de-orbit service by May 1, 2024, and for the Network Orchestration capability by October 21, 2024, with contact inquiries directed to ussf.pentagon.sda.mbx.FA240124S0001@mail.mil.
    ADVANCED RESEARCH ANNOUNCEMENT (ARA) TITLE: CHARACTERIZATION AND ASSESSMENT FOR SPACE DOMAIN AWARENESS (SDA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Department of the Air Force's Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has issued an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Characterization and Assessment for Space Domain Awareness (SDA)." This initiative aims to develop innovative technologies for enhancing capabilities in intelligent tasking, data collection, processing, and analysis related to space superiority and awareness, with a focus on areas such as automated pattern recognition and multi-source data fusion. The total funding for this ARA is approximately $99 million, and it remains open until July 12, 2029, with initial submissions required in the form of white papers. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Carolyn Sheaff at Carolyn.Sheaff@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil, and adhere to the specified submission guidelines to ensure compliance and successful evaluation.
    ADVANCING SYSTEMS OF SYSTEMS TECHNOLOGIES FOR RAPID ADOPTION (ASTRA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is seeking innovative research and development solutions through an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Advancing Systems of Systems Technologies for Rapid Adoption (ASTRA)," with an estimated funding of approximately $200 million. The primary objective is to enhance the rapid integration of diverse systems and subsystems into cohesive Systems of Systems (SoS), focusing on developing software prototypes and implementing open system architectures to improve military effectiveness and adaptability. Interested parties, including small businesses and academia, are invited to submit 3–5 page white papers outlining their approaches, with recommended submission deadlines spanning from October 2023 to September 2027, and a final deadline of July 2028. For further inquiries, contact Gerard Wohlrab at gerard.wohlrab@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil.
    National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 On-Ramp Request for Proposal (RFP)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Space Force, is soliciting proposals for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 On-Ramp Request for Proposal (RFP). This procurement aims to establish multiple Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for launch services, ensuring assured access to space for national security missions while fostering a competitive domestic launch environment. The selected contractors will be responsible for providing launch services for approximately 30 missions over a four-year period, with proposals due by 1200 Pacific Time on December 13, 2024. Interested parties should contact Kirsten Prechtl at kirsten.prechtl@spaceforce.mil for further details and access to sensitive RFP documents.
    CHEERS MAA Open Period 2 - All Technical Areas, 10 U.S.C. 4023 - Procurement for Experimental Purposes (ARA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, issues an open solicitation for experimental purposes, governed by 10 U.S.C. 4023. This multi-step procurement process, referred to as Continuing Human Enabling, Enhancing, Restoring, and Sustaining (CHEERS), seeks innovative solutions in various technical areas related to human effectiveness for national defense. The Air Force invites contractors to submit concise five-page white papers outlining their approaches. These submissions will undergo a review process, and successful candidates will be invited to present detailed proposals. The AFRL retains the discretion to award multiple contracts, IDIQs, or purchases under specific authorities. The focus areas include a wide range of supplies and services, from medical and aeronautical to signal and energy supplies for defense purposes. Offerors should be prepared to provide data items, software, and hardware, although the exact requirements will be established later. The process allows the AFRL to explore diverse solutions, with potential contracts valued at up to $500 million. The legal and contracting clauses detailed in the procurement aim to ensure compliance with federal regulations and manage contractual relationships. These clauses cover various topics, including security, employee rights, and intellectual property, and will be incorporated into the contracts. Contractors will also be responsible for flowing down these clauses to their subcontractors. This solicitation serves as an initial request for information or a draft, as key evaluation criteria and dates are absent. The AFRL seeks to protect proprietary data and may impose security and export control regulations. The submission deadline for the initial white paper step is 30 September 2027. For clarification or questions, interested parties may contact Amber Taylor or Ashlee Green via email.