Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies Research and Development (MUSTER)
ID: FA8650-21-S-1180Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8650 USAF AFMC 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 Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies Research and Development (MUSTER) initiative. This opportunity aims to advance research in various areas, including multiband multifunction radio frequency sensors and laser radar technology, to enhance the U.S. Air Force's capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The program has a total budget of $250 million, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $10 million, and interested parties must submit white papers by May 20, 2026, to be considered for further evaluation. For additional information, potential applicants can contact Jamie Jones-Brooks at jamie.jones-brooks@us.af.mil or Travis White at travis.white.17@us.af.mil.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document provides comprehensive instructions for submitting assistance instrument proposals, including the requirement for SF 424 (R&R) forms, demographic data collection for compliance with Title IX, and information necessary for key personnel involved in defense research. It emphasizes the importance of registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) and accessing Grants.gov for grant applications, outlining the step-by-step registration and submission processes, including the need for a DUNS number and electronic signatures. It also details the penalties for incomplete submissions and provides resources for applicant support and application tracking.
    The document outlines supplemental instructions for proposals seeking federal assistance, emphasizing the requirement to submit an SF 424 (R&R) form as the cover page. It highlights the importance of demographic data collection to comply with Title IX regarding women's representation in STEM roles. Institutions of higher education must provide details on key personnel's current and future research projects to protect intellectual property and national security interests. Additionally, registration in the System for Award Management (SAM) is mandatory for grant applications, with SAM functioning as the central repository for certifications and representations. The document explains the procedure for submitting proposals through Grants.gov, including creating a workspace, completing necessary forms, and ensuring timely submissions. Applicants are encouraged to track their submissions and seek support if issues arise. This guidance is essential for entities wishing to access and secure federal funding while maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.
    The "Statement of Objectives" outlines the Air Force Research Laboratory's focus on advancing multi-spectral sensing technologies across various domains, including passive radio frequency and laser radar systems, to enhance global persistent awareness and resilience in contested environments. It emphasizes the need for innovative research approaches across 13 key areas, targeting the development of advanced sensor technologies, integration of diverse data, and operational advancements in electronic warfare, surveillance, and communication. Additionally, the document mandates adherence to operations security (OPSEC) and program protection plans to safeguard critical program information throughout the contract lifecycle.
    The document FA8650-21-S-1180 outlines the Statement of Objectives (SOO) for the Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies Research and Development (MuSTeR) project, initiated by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). Its primary goal is to advance multispectral sensing capabilities across various domains including radio frequency, laser radar, and electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) technologies. Key research areas encompass the development of multifunctional arrays, fully adaptive radar systems, advanced digital multifunction arrays, and methods for passive radio frequency sensing. Emphasis is placed on enhancing situational awareness, tracking, and targeting in contested environments. Moreover, innovative approaches in sensor integration, data processing, and algorithm development are prioritized to enable actionable intelligence from diverse sensor inputs. The document also includes mandates for Operations Security (OPSEC) and Program Protection Plans to secure critical program information. In summary, the document provides a strategic framework for enhancing the U.S. Air Force's sensor capabilities through advanced R&D initiatives, aimed at supporting global security operations in increasingly complex environments.
    The document FA8650-21-S-1180 outlines supplemental requirements for a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), detailing key compliance measures for contractors. It mandates disclosure of information per DFARS regulations, necessitating copies of any information intended for release to be submitted 50 days in advance to specified contracting offices. Key personnel essential to the contract's execution must meet minimum qualifications, with any changes in staffing requiring prior approval. The document also addresses packaging and handling of sensitive deliverables, stipulating specific instructions for their receipt. Further, it highlights base support provisions, indicating that the government may offer facilities and services at no cost, though the contractor cannot incur costs prior to approval. Security measures specify that only U.S. citizens may access certain government facilities, with procedures outlined for obtaining waivers for non-citizens. Finally, it emphasizes the protection of science and technology information, requiring contractors to adhere to related plans and provide regular updates on personnel involved in sensitive projects. The structured nature of the document underscores compliance and security protocols critical for government operations.
    The Statement of Work (SOW) outlines supplemental requirements for contractor compliance regarding the disclosure of information, key personnel qualifications, packaging, base support, patent rights, and access for non-U.S. citizens. Key responsibilities include notifying the Contracting Officer of personnel changes, providing reports on inventions, and adhering to established packaging instructions for sensitive materials. Additional provisions cover the compliance with small business subcontracting plans and Science and Technology Protection requirements, requiring coordination with the Government for personnel accessing sensitive information.
    This document is an attachment related to the FA8650-21-S-1180 acquisition, detailing the form and requirements for submitting profiles of Senior/Key personnel involved in research projects. It includes fields for personal information, professional roles, and educational background, along with instructions for attaching necessary documents. The expiration date for the form is indicated as December 31, 2022.
    The document outlines the necessary components for submitting key personnel profiles as part of a government research funding application. It includes sections for required information such as names, organization details, contact information, and roles within the project. The profiles pertain to both the Project Director/Principal Investigator and other Senior/Key Personnel, emphasizing the importance of biographical sketches and current and pending support attachments. The form adheres to federal regulations, as indicated by the OMB number, and outlines requirements for documenting degrees and credentials. This structure is critical for ensuring that individuals involved in the project are appropriately vetted and qualified, aligning with federal grant and proposal protocols. The overall purpose is to facilitate comprehensive evaluations of applicants’ qualifications in the context of federal funding opportunities, reflecting a standard approach to administrative compliance in government RFP processes.
    This document outlines the solicitation for a contract (FA8650-21-R-1180) involving research and development in Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies by the U.S. Air Force, specifying contract clauses, pricing structures, and delivery requirements. It also details the responsibilities of the contractor regarding data delivery, including software and hardware provision, compliance with safety and security measures, and the implications of tax liabilities. Notices encompass various federal acquisition regulations pertinent to the solicitation, emphasizing the significance of compliance with cybersecurity and ethical standards throughout the contract’s lifecycle.
    The document outlines a government solicitation for research and development services under contract FA8650-21-R-1180, specifically focused on Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies (MuSTeR). Issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) on March 16, 2021, it seeks proposals through a negotiated request for proposals (RFP) format. Key elements include the requirement for the contractor to conduct R&D, deliver software and hardware, and maintain operations and procurement tasks as defined in the attached Statement of Work. The solicitation emphasizes a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract type, with various mandatory clauses and instructions for submission, inspections, and payment. Offers must comply with federal acquisition regulations and include provisions for cybersecurity and confidentiality, ensuring the protection of sensitive information. The document also specifies guidelines for reporting and handling any issues related to cyber incidents and mandates that results must be completed within defined timelines. Overall, this solicitation reflects the government's commitment to advancing technological capabilities through collaborative research efforts while adhering to regulations ensuring accountability and data security throughout the contracting process.
    The "Proposal Adequacy Checklist" outlines the required elements for a complete proposal submission according to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). It includes a comprehensive set of questions and references to specific FAR sections that offerors must address, such as the inclusion of cost or pricing data, explanations for missing items, and summaries of costs by category. This checklist serves as a tool for evaluating the sufficiency of proposals and ensuring compliance with government procurement regulations.
    The "Proposal Adequacy Checklist" serves as a guideline for offerors preparing federal proposals, ensuring compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) requirements. The document outlines key elements that must be included in proposals, such as cost data, material sourcing, and subcontractor details. It specifies that offerors must provide a comprehensive checklist detailing the relevant information and justifications for omissions. Key points include requirements for identifying government-furnished materials, cost compliance disclosures, summaries of direct and indirect costs, and price analyses for subcontractors. Additionally, it stresses the necessity of compliance with modified commercial item classifications and rationale for economic price adjustments within proposals. The primary purpose of this checklist is to facilitate transparency and uniformity in proposals submitted to government entities, thereby enhancing the evaluation and award process across various federal, state, and local grants. Each section requires detailed documentation and justifications to promote accuracy in cost estimating and management practices within proposed projects.
    The document outlines the security classification requirements for a Department of Defense contract related to the Air Force Research Laboratory's efforts in multispectral sensing and detection, requiring a facility and safeguarding clearance at the SECRET level. It details the contractor's need for access to various classified information types and stipulates that any public release of contract information must be approved by the appropriate U.S. Government authority. Additionally, it identifies primary contacts for security oversight and emphasizes compliance with established security protocols throughout the contract's duration.
    The document is a Contract Security Classification Specification from the Department of Defense concerning a classified effort related to the Air Force Research Laboratory's Multispectral Sensing and Detection Division. It outlines security protocol and requirements for the contractor engaged in research and development for aerospace electro-optical and radio frequency sensor systems. Key points include the necessity for a security clearance, access to classified information, and compliance with applicable security regulations, such as the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual. The contractor must also follow specific guidance for handling classified information generated during the contract's performance at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. The document emphasizes collaboration between the contractor and government security authorities, ensuring safeguarding of sensitive information, and discusses oversight roles and procedures for inspections. Overall, it serves to establish a framework for managing classified materials effectively and securely throughout the contract lifecycle.
    The document outlines data item requirements for the contract EA8650-21-S-1180, specifying the necessary reports, submission guidelines, and distribution restrictions such as Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) labeling and export control compliance. Various reports are mandated, including Scientific and Technical Reports and financial status updates, with specific formatting and encryption instructions for electronic submissions. Additionally, it details submission timelines and distribution statements, emphasizing compliance with established guidelines and the importance of proper data handling and marking.
    The DD Form 1423-1 is a Contract Data Requirements List detailing the process for submitting and managing data items associated with government contracts, specifically for the Department of Defense. The form outlines various fields, including contract line item numbers, data item titles, submission dates, and distribution details. It categorizes data into Technical Data Packages (TDP), Technical Manuals (TM), or other relevant types, and requires contractors to specify the authority for data acquisition, requiring office, distribution requirements, and estimated price for developing each data item. The document provides guidance for both government personnel and contractors on how to fill out the form accurately, ensuring compliance with government standards. It states that the public reporting burden averages 110 hours per response, emphasizing the significance of proper data management in government contracting. The set structure of the form aids in systemizing and tracking data deliveries, essential for compliance and operational efficiency within federal contracts. In summary, this form serves as a vital tool in facilitating proper information flow between contractors and the government, streamlining the data submission process required for effective contract performance and accountability.
    The document provides a detailed guide from the Air Force Research Laboratory on how to format technical reports according to the ANSI/NISO standards. It outlines essential components such as front matter, body sections, and back matter, including specific requirements for each part like cover pages, tables of contents, and referencing styles. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of compliance with export control regulations and includes guidelines for managing proprietary information within the reports.
    The document serves as a formatting guide for technical reports required by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in compliance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and National Information Standards Organization (NISO) standards. It details the components and structure essential for technical reports, which include Front Matter, Body, and Back Matter. Key sections specify required elements such as Cover Page, SF 298 (Report Documentation Page), Table of Contents, required headings in the Body, and various formatting requirements like font type, spacing, and pagination. Each section outlines specific responsibilities, such as which party is accountable for including each report element. The guide further addresses referencing styles, presentation formats for equations, figures, and tables, and emphasizes compliance with export control regulations. The document underscores the importance of clarity and consistency for the accessible dissemination of technical data, especially within the context of government contract management and compliance in RFPs and grants.
    The document outlines payment instructions for contract FA8650-21-S-1180, detailing various payment types, including cost vouchers, invoices, and progress payments. It specifies methods for fund allocation based on line items, fiscal years, and contract terms such as utilizing unliquidated funds or oldest funds for multiple ACRNs. Additionally, it highlights that contracting officers must approve specific payment amounts and accounts charged as per regulatory guidelines.
    The document FA8650-21-S-1180 Attachment #8 outlines payment instructions related to various contract types under federal procurement regulations. It specifies payment terms for supplies, services, and construction, emphasizing the allocation of funds based on line item specifics and fiscal years. For contracts like fixed-price, progress payments, and performance-based payments, it details how unliquidated funds should be allocated, typically favoring older funds when multiple funding sources (ACRNs) are present. Key sections include guidelines for invoices, cost vouchers, and approvals necessary for payment processing as per relevant FAR clauses. The structured approach ensures clarity in the funding distribution and payment processing for involved parties, highlighting the document's critical role in federal contract management and adherence to regulations. Overall, it serves to standardize payment practices in government contracts and ensure compliance with financial management protocols.
    This document outlines the reporting requirements for a specific project (FA8650-21-S-1180 Attachment #9), providing instructions on how to complete various sections of the SF 298 form, which is used in the Department of Defense for reporting purposes. It includes details on the types of information required, such as report dates, performing organization details, sponsor agency names, and distribution statements, while clarifying the non-penalization clause for non-compliance without a valid OMB control number. The report also addresses information management procedures to ensure proper data collection and reporting accuracy.
    The document is the Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8/98), which serves as a Report Documentation Page for government documents, particularly in the context of Department of Defense reports. It includes instructions for completing the form, which require the inclusion of specific information such as report date, type, title, contract number, author(s), and sponsoring agency details. The form is structured to facilitate the systematic collection of report data and enhance the accessibility and distribution of government research and findings. Notably, it outlines the estimated burden of completing the form and indicates that respondents are not penalized for non-compliance if the form lacks a valid OMB control number. The intent of the form is to standardize reporting processes across various federal grants and contracts, supporting transparency and accountability in federal and state RFPs.
    The 2-Step Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory invites white papers related to the development of Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies, with proposals for research areas covering advanced radio frequency and electro-optical systems. The framework allows for the submission of white papers until May 20, 2026, followed by proposal submissions for selected white papers, facilitating a streamlined acquisition process to save costs for both industry and the government. Awards could total $250 million, with multiple contract types available, and an emphasis on small business participation is noted.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for research and development in Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies (MuSTeR) with a focus on advancing technologies in various areas including multiband multifunction radio frequency sensors and laser radar technology. This two-step solicitation requires interested parties to submit white papers by May 20, 2026, for initial evaluation. Selected submissions will be invited to present full technical and cost proposals. The overall program budget is set at $250 million, with awards ranging from $100,000 to $10 million. The BAA encourages participation from small businesses and emphasizes that proposals must adhere to specified submission formats and deadlines, including strict guidelines for technical and cost documentation. The AFRL aims to enhance capabilities for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems crucial for U.S. Air Force operations. Furthermore, the BAA includes provisions for facility security, export control compliance, and safety program participation, reinforcing the importance of contractor adherence to defense-related regulations and standards.
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