Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE)
ID: FA8650-21-S-1016Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8650 USAF AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND AFRL PZL AFRL/PZLWRIGHT PATTERSON AFB, OH, 45433-7541, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; APPLIED RESEARCH (AC12)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE) initiative, aimed at advancing research in cyber-physical sensing and electronic warfare effects across multiple operational domains. This two-step Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) seeks white papers that address the interactions and vulnerabilities of cyber-connected devices in various applications, including manufacturing, transportation, and utilities, with a focus on developing innovative technologies to enhance military capabilities. The total estimated budget for this initiative is $92.9 million, with individual awards potentially reaching up to $20 million, and the first step requires white papers to be submitted by February 25, 2026. Interested parties can contact Jennifer Skalski at jennifer.skalski@us.af.mil or Caleb Rose for further information regarding the submission process.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    This document contains supplemental instructions for submitting proposals for assistance instruments associated with federal grants, particularly in the context of the Department of Defense (DoD). Key points include the requirement for all proposals to start with the SF 424 (R&R) form and details needed on demographic and career data for key personnel, particularly in STEM fields, to evaluate compliance with Title IX. Institutions applying for defense-related research grants must provide comprehensive information about key personnel's current and future projects to protect U.S. technology and limit foreign influence. Further instructions detail the necessity for applicants to register in the System for Award Management (SAM) and to include relevant certifications. Proposals can be submitted electronically via Grants.gov, with clear steps outlined for registration, account creation, and application submission via their workspace feature. Timeliness in submissions is emphasized, as applications received after the due date will not be considered for funding. Overall, the document aims to ensure a systematic approach for organizations seeking assistance while safeguarding national security interests.
    The document is a solicitation for a contract under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), designated as FA8650-21-R-1016, addressing a rated order for research and development services. The solicitation outlines various sections, starting with a comprehensive schedule detailing the supplies and services required, including research, software, and hardware. Each item is associated with a specific contract type—cost-plus-fixed-fee—and set delivery requirements. Key points include the contractor's responsibilities for conducting research according to the attached Statement of Work and delivering data and software by specified deadlines. The document emphasizes the importance of compliance with federal acquisition regulations, including delivery and inspection standards and detailed invoicing instructions. Additionally, it covers vital clauses related to project administration, including provisions for invoicing and payment instructions. The purpose is to ensure rigorous oversight and quality control within the contracting process, while facilitating effective collaboration between the government and the contractor. The solicitation's structured approach aims to streamline the acquisition of essential services while adhering to federal compliance standards.
    The Proposal Adequacy Checklist, revised in January 2014, outlines mandatory components for offerors responding to government requests for proposals (RFPs) per the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). The document details 36 items that offerors must address in their proposals, ensuring compliance with specified requirements. Key sections include general instructions on the proposal's completeness, cost estimating methodologies, disclosures on subcontracting, and compliance with cost accounting standards. Offerors must include detailed information about direct and indirect costs, labor rates, price analyses, and proposed contracts. The checklist is structured to facilitate thorough and transparent proposals, enabling the government to assess the viability and fairness of submitted bids. It serves to enhance clarity and consistency across federal contracting efforts, ensuring efficient evaluations of proposals and adherence to regulatory requirements.
    The Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE) initiative by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) aims to enhance multi-domain sensing technologies critical for military operations and civilian infrastructure protection. This effort concentrates on understanding cyber-physical interactions across various applications such as manufacturing, transportation, and utilities, particularly how kinetic actions can influence cyber operations. The project encompasses the development of novel cyber-physical and electronic warfare sensing technologies, emphasizing research in sensing effects, performance modeling, experiments, and machine learning applications. Key objectives include refining techniques for cybersecurity, exploiting vulnerabilities, and creating mission-essential knowledge through data fusion and autonomy. The management plan mandates consistent government oversight while allowing contractor flexibility. Deliverables will take the form of comprehensive technical reports and software/hardware prototypes. The initiative underscores the importance of operational security (OPSEC) and program protection to safeguard sensitive information throughout the contract lifecycle, reflecting the government's commitment to enhancing both military readiness and civilian infrastructure resilience.
    The file includes security guidance for classified government efforts, specifically emphasizing the need for thorough documentation regarding security protocols. It indicates that relevant documents or guides should be attached or communicated separately to ensure comprehensive security measures are adhered to. This guidance is critical for maintaining the integrity, safety, and confidentiality of classified projects within the framework of federal and state-level contracting processes. The focus on security underscores the importance of compliance and diligence in government operations, especially concerning sensitive information. Overall, the document serves as an essential reference point for organizations involved in classified efforts, ensuring they meet required security standards when responding to federal RFPs and grants.
    The document serves as an addendum to the DD Form 254, specifically addressing Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clauses. It includes sections for key supporting details such as the Security Support Office (SSO), contact information, and associated company and contract details. The SCI requirements have been reviewed and approved by the SSO at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB), indicating a compliance posture for sensitive information sharing. This addendum outlines the procedural and administrative elements required for managing SCI within government contracts, particularly highlighting the importance of security protocols in the execution of federal requests for proposals (RFPs) and grants. It positions itself as a critical component of ensuring that financial and operational activities involving sensitive information adhere to established guidelines.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8650-21-S-1016 pertains to the Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE) initiative. The document serves as a combined synopsis and solicitation for government contracting opportunities. This amendment updates the contact information for the contracting points of contact (POC), specifically naming Caleb Rose as the primary contact and Jerry Brown as the secondary. It is noted that no other changes have been made to this solicitation. This BAA aims to foster innovation and advance research in the field of cyber-linked physical sensing, highlighting the government's efforts to engage with industry partners in developing cutting-edge technologies. The outlined contact details provide essential points for interested parties to seek further clarification and submit proposals relevant to the announced research interests. The document ultimately reflects a structured approach to government contracting, facilitating collaboration between federal entities and private sector innovators.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8650-21-S-1016 relates to the Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE) initiative. This amendment primarily updates the contracting point of contact to Adam Wentworth, Contracting Officer at AFRL/RYKSR, along with his contact details. No additional changes to the combined synopsis/solicitation have been made under this amendment. The BAA is part of the U.S. government's efforts to solicit proposals for innovative solutions in the realm of cyber-linked physical sensing. It represents a targeted approach to enhance technological capabilities through external collaboration, essential for advancing national security and defense missions. This document reflects the government's commitment to fostering research and development through active engagement with private sector partners.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) No. FA8650-21-S-1016 focuses on enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE). Amendment 3 modifies the original solicitation to incorporate a clause restricting the use of the TikTok application and any related services provided by ByteDance Limited on government-owned or contractor-provided information technology. This prohibition stems from the No TikTok on Government Devices Act, which mandates that covered applications cannot be present on executive agency technologies. Contractors must comply with this prohibition and ensure that similar clauses are included in all subcontracts. The amendment does not introduce any other changes to the combined synopsis/solicitation. Overall, the BAA promotes the advancement of innovative sensing technologies while enforcing security measures to protect government systems from potential threats associated with certain applications.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is announcing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE)." This two-step solicitation seeks white papers to support research on cyber-physical sensing and electronic warfare effects across various operational domains. The program has an estimated budget of $92.9 million, with multiple awards up to $20 million each. The first step requires white papers by February 25, 2026, focusing on the potential solutions to meet Air Force needs. Selected submissions will proceed to the second step, where proposals will be requested. Research objectives include modeling, simulation, and testing of new technologies, with an emphasis on advancing understanding of cyber-connected devices and their vulnerabilities. The evaluation will consider technical innovation, the ability to meet objectives, cost realism, and the likelihood of transitioning deliverables to future needs. The document also emphasizes strict submission guidelines, security clearances for classified information, and export control compliance. This solicitation underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing military capabilities through advanced research and development in sensing technology.
    The document outlines the Enabling Cyber-Linked Physical Sensing Exploitation (ECLPSE) initiative, focused on advancing sensing and information exploitation rather than offensive or defensive capabilities. It emphasizes the importance of multi-domain applicability, including air, space, ground, and sea, while explicitly excluding cyber-sensing from its scope. The request for proposals (RFP) seeks novel and innovative solutions, particularly in areas such as Electronic Warfare (EW) and artificial intelligence, but does not prioritize specific technologies like 5G. Key objectives include exploring distributed sensing capabilities and potential counter-unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with an openness to unexpected applications of technology. The document clarifies that while cybersecurity applications are not the primary focus, interested proposals should demonstrate how they align with cyber-linked physical systems that facilitate sensing exploitation. Overall, the ECLPSE aims to foster creative solutions that can reshape current military and defense applications without constraining ideas through overly specific requirements.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
    Similar Opportunities
    COLLABORATIVE SENSING & EXPLOITATION
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting innovative research proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Collaborative Sensing & Exploitation." The objective is to develop technologies for closed-loop sensing and sensor data exploitation in dynamic adversarial environments, focusing on enhancing detection, tracking, and classification capabilities through advanced multimodal sensing systems. This initiative is crucial for improving situational awareness and operational effectiveness in military contexts. The total funding available for this BAA is approximately $25 million, with individual awards typically ranging from $400,000 to $1 million and lasting up to 36 months. Interested parties must submit white papers by 4 PM EST on specified deadlines through September 30, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Peter Zulch at Peter.Zulch@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil.
    CAPABILITIES FOR CYBER ADVANCEMENT
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-21-S-7001 titled "Capabilities for Cyber Advancement," aimed at developing innovative technologies to achieve cyber superiority for military applications. The initiative seeks white papers that propose next-generation solutions focusing on cybersecurity, resilient infrastructures, and effective command and control in cyberspace, with an emphasis on enhancing mission assurance across air, space, and cyberspace domains. With an estimated funding ceiling of approximately $975 million available until December 1, 2025, interested parties are encouraged to submit their proposals while adhering to federal regulations and eligibility criteria, particularly regarding foreign participation. For further inquiries, contact Todd Cushman at afrl.riga.baa@us.af.mil or (315) 330-4895.
    Trusted and Elastic Military Platforms and Electronic Warfare (EW) System Technologies (TEMPEST)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is seeking proposals for the Trusted and Elastic Military Platforms and Electronic Warfare System Technologies (TEMPEST) initiative. This procurement aims to investigate and develop methodologies and technologies to enhance the cybersecurity and resilience of avionics systems, including manned and unmanned vehicles, against potential cyber threats. The program is critical for advancing the capabilities of Air Force and Department of Defense weapon systems in multi-domain environments, with an estimated funding amount of $808 million available for multiple awards ranging from $1 million to $200 million. Interested parties must submit their proposals by October 11, 2024, and can contact Timothy Matelski at timothy.matelski@us.af.mil or Richard Bailey at richard.bailey.26@us.af.mil for further information.
    AERIAL LAYER NETWORKING & TRANSMISSION TECHNOLOGIES
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is seeking innovative solutions through Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7002 for advancements in Aerial Layer Networking and Transmission Technologies. The objective is to transition from rigid, pre-planned aerial networks to dynamic, self-forming, and resilient structures that enhance interoperability and operational capabilities in contested environments. This initiative is critical for improving military communication systems, with an estimated funding of approximately $99.5 million available over five fiscal years, allowing for individual awards typically ranging from $1 million to $10 million. Interested parties must submit white papers by September 30, 2027, and can direct inquiries to Peter Fitzgerald at peter.fitzgerald.1@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further information.
    EXTREME COMPUTING
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    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 initiative aims to advance technologies in computational diversity, machine learning, artificial intelligence, nanocomputing, and robust computing architectures, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of Air Force platforms. This BAA has an estimated total funding of approximately $497.9 million, with individual awards typically ranging from $1 million to $3 million for projects lasting up to 36 months. Interested parties are encouraged to submit white papers by September 20, 2028, with recommended submission dates aligned with fiscal year funding timelines, and can direct inquiries to Dr. Nathan Inkawhich at nathan.inkawhich@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further information.
    NETWORKING THE FIGHT
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is announcing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Networking the Fight" (BAA Number: FA8750-24-S-7002) aimed at enhancing information sharing capabilities at the tactical edge. The initiative seeks innovative research proposals focused on three technical areas: developing a Next Generation Cross Domain Solution Broker, creating Highly Dynamic Red/Black Networking solutions, and establishing Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis (MS&A) frameworks to evaluate these technologies. This program is critical for improving secure data exchanges across diverse military domains, ultimately enhancing mission success in complex operational environments. Approximately $70 million is allocated for this BAA, with white papers due by February 28, 2024, and potential formal proposals due by April 8, 2024. Interested parties can contact Lt. Tyler Horn at tyler.horn.4@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further information.
    ELECTRONIC INTELLIGENCE INFORMATION EXPLOITATION
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is soliciting proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-20-S-7015 for the development of advanced Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) capabilities, focusing on automated signal detection, processing, and reporting to enhance Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The initiative aims to improve the efficiency and accuracy of ELINT signal processing software and hardware, optimize collection systems, and enhance post-mission data analysis, thereby supporting national defense objectives. With an estimated funding ceiling of approximately $99.9 million, individual awards are expected to range from $500,000 to $12 million, with white papers accepted until September 30, 2025. Interested parties can reach out to Charles Estrella at charles.estrella@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further inquiries.
    Resilient Open & Agile Avionics System & Technology Development (ROAASTD)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the Resilient Open & Agile Avionics System & Technology Development (ROAASTD) initiative. This solicitation aims to foster research that enhances system and platform resilience in response to evolving global threats, facilitating the rapid integration of advanced sensor technologies for national defense. The program, with a total budget of $30 million and individual awards ranging from $3 to $6 million, invites white papers until April 19, 2028, and emphasizes participation from various organizations, particularly small businesses. Interested parties can contact Sarah Ballard at sarah.ballard@us.af.mil or Richard Bailey at richard.bailey.26@us.af.mil for further information.
    COMPOSABLE COLLABORATIVE PLANNING
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is soliciting innovative research proposals through a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Composable Collaborative Planning," aimed at enhancing military operational planning capabilities. The primary objective is to develop a framework that addresses the complexities of logistics planning, particularly in contested environments, by enabling parallel planning and improving dependency tracking to reduce overall planning time. This initiative is critical for optimizing resource allocation and operational readiness in military operations, with an estimated funding of approximately $24.5 million available for awards typically ranging from $500,000 to $2 million over a maximum duration of 24 months. Interested parties should submit white papers by February 28, 2026, and may direct inquiries to Aaron McVay at aaron.mcvay.3@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further information.
    AWGER: ADAPTIVE WAVEFORM GENERATION FOR EXTREME RF
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of the Air Force is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for research on Adaptive Waveform Generation for Extreme RF, designated as BAA Number FA8750-22-S-7006. This initiative seeks innovative approaches in cognitive waveform generation, network control, and scenario evaluation within diverse RF environments, emphasizing the importance of advancing military capabilities through cutting-edge technologies. The total estimated funding for this BAA is approximately $49.9 million, with individual awards typically ranging from $300,000 to $3 million and lasting up to 36 months. Interested parties must submit white papers by September 30, 2027, and can direct inquiries to Gerard Wohlrab at gerard.wohlrab@us.af.mil or Amber Buckley at amber.buckley@us.af.mil for further information.