The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) hosted an industry day on November 10, 2022, to outline its FY23 applied research requirements and specific interests, particularly focusing on threats associated with Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). The session covered insights on DTRA's dual roles as a Defense and Combat Support Agency, emphasizing the agency's strategies to deter, prevent, and counter emerging threats while developing the workforce for future challenges. DTRA is seeking proposals aligned with two primary thrust areas: WMD-relevant strategic dialogues and research studies to characterize future battlespaces. The proposals must engage international dialogue or explore strategic capabilities of adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. Submissions must meet specific eligibility criteria, outline a well-defined problem statement, and include a technical approach suitable for the research objectives. The submission process involves a two-phase approach, including a white paper followed by a detailed proposal upon acceptance. The document details eligibility, expected deliverables, and evaluation criteria to guide researchers in crafting their proposals. When awarded, projects are expected to evolve continuously while contributing actionable insights to DTRA’s mission of enhancing national security against WMD threats.

The latest amendment to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004 provides key insights from the Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) Research Topic Information Session (RTIS) held virtually on April 28, 2022. It includes informational slides shared during the session, which serve as reference material for potential applicants interested in submitting white papers. These slides highlight essential aspects of the BAA and its previous amendment. Additionally, the document contains a list of completed and ongoing STRI-sponsored research projects, offering insight into DTRA's Strategic Trends Division's priorities. This list aids prospective participants in understanding the types of research already authorized and what initiatives are in progress. Notably, DTRA cannot provide information about projects sponsored by other divisions beyond the Strategic Trends Division. Overall, this announcement emphasizes DTRA's commitment to fostering research collaboration and transparency in ongoing projects, thereby encouraging informed participation from interested applicants in their funding opportunities.

The document is an amendment to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S0004 from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), summarizing questions and answers from the November 10, 2022 Industry Day/Research Topic Information Session. It includes corrections to previous amendments and provides details on attendance, eligibility, project team organization, research methodology, and classification levels for proposed projects. Key points include guidelines for submitting white papers, which must demonstrate relevance to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) research. Organizations may collaborate and submit joint proposals, but eligibility requirements, particularly for foreign entities, must be followed. The document emphasizes priorities around long-term research (5 to 10 years) while acknowledging immediate threats. It outlines financial expectations, indicating that funding varies based on project scope and potential benefits. Overall, the document serves as a resource for potential researchers interested in applying for funding through the DTRA, clarifying procedural expectations and strategic research priorities relevant to national security.

The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004 Amendment 01 outlines the Spring 2022 priority review period for white paper submissions regarding research topics related to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and military issues. It includes a virtual Research Topic Information Session (RTIS) scheduled for April 28, 2022, where participants can learn about submission processes and research priorities for FY 2022. The BAA identifies specific research thrusts, including strategic dialogues focused on military challenges related to China and Russia, studies on future battlespace dynamics, and tabletop exercises analyzing WMD scenarios. Key deadlines for white paper submissions are set for May 19 (Thrust 1), June 9 (Thrust 2), and June 16 (Thrust 3). DTRA SI-STT emphasizes the importance of collaborative military engagement with allies to address WMD threats and maintain regional stability. The document is designed for researchers and organizations seeking federal grant funding and outlines the requirements and focus areas for funded studies in the realm of defense and military strategy. Overall, the BAA serves as a guiding framework for advancing research initiatives that align with national security objectives.

The document outlines Amendment 03 to the Broad Agency Announcement HDTRA1-22-S-0004, addressing questions from the DTRA SI‐STT Research Topic Information Session held on April 28, 2022. It highlights that DTRA receives around 100 white papers annually, with approximately 50% advancing to the proposal stage. The submission of white papers for unofficial feedback is not permitted, and all submissions must be unclassified. The document clarifies that DTRA prioritizes diversity in investigator qualifications over academic credentials and imposes citizenship restrictions on project team members, allowing only those from allied nations. Research focuses on global security threats, particularly in the Persian Gulf, without restricting interest to specific regions. DTRA seeks studies that incorporate analytical methods beyond surveys, emphasizing the need for research components in dialogues and tabletop exercises. The amendment underscores the importance of delivering key findings and actionable recommendations from research efforts while stating that it does not fund data subscription purchases or software development. Participation in dialogues includes research to inform discussions, and DTRA will cover travel costs for its personnel at project events. Overall, the document serves to guide researchers on expectations and requirements for submissions related to defense strategies and international cooperation.

The document is an amendment to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004, specifically addressing changes made to the STRI Research Topic Information Session presentation held on November 10, 2022. The amendment indicates that personal names of STRI team members and presenters have been removed from section title slides, enhancing confidentiality. Furthermore, the Q&A slide has been substituted with a general contact email for STRI, streamlining communication. This amendment reflects the government's effort to ensure privacy while maintaining clear channels for inquiries, which is crucial in the context of federal RFPs and grants where transparency and professionalism are essential.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI)" with the goal of soliciting analytical research efforts to address emerging threats related to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) over the next five to ten years. The DTRA emphasizes its need for partnerships with expert communities to generate actionable insights and enhance understanding of potential future military operations related to nuclear, chemical, and biological threats and methodologies. The BAA is structured into two submission phases: Phase I consists of submitting a white paper, while Phase II encompasses the proposal submission for selected white papers. DTRA seeks research in three thrust areas: strategic dialogues, future battlespace characterization regarding WMD threats, and tabletop exercises. The document outlines eligibility criteria, award information, and an evaluation process focused on alignment with DTRA missions, relevance of proposed research, and technical merit. Throughout the process, emphasis is placed on developing reports that convey analyzed findings rather than summarizing events. The document serves as a critical tool for collaborative defense research aimed at mitigating and addressing national and global security threats effectively.

The Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) Industry Day document outlines the Defense Threat Reduction Agency's (DTRA) applied research requirements for fiscal year 2022, detailing the submission process, research interests, and eligibility criteria. The main purpose is to solicit proposals addressing weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and emerging threats through three thrust areas: strategic dialogues, research studies, and tabletop exercises. The document emphasizes the importance of operationally relevant insights to support U.S. military and interagency efforts against WMD threats. Participants are encouraged to submit unclassified white papers following a two-phase process. A broad range of eligible entities, including U.S.-based organizations and foreign allies, can apply. Focus areas include advancements in military technologies and international cooperation against WMD threats, particularly concerning adversaries like China and Russia. All proposals must provide actionable research that will inform future operations, with specific guidance on content and evaluation criteria provided. The document reinforces DTRA's mission to integrate activities around WMD and the importance of addressing national security concerns through collaborative research efforts.

The Broad Agency Announcement HDTRA1-22-S-0004 Amendment 04 outlines the Fiscal Year 2023 priorities for white paper submissions to the Defense Threat Reduction Agency's (DTRA) Science and Technology Directorate (SI-STT). The document includes details on a scheduled Research Topic Information Session (RTIS) for stakeholders, updates to the program description, and the specific research priorities in two thrust areas: dialogues related to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and research studies characterizing future battlefield environments. The amendment emphasizes the importance of multilateral defense dialogues with a focus on countries like China, Russia, and Iran and outlines the criteria for participation and research areas. The document also establishes deadlines for white paper submissions, with December 6 and 13, 2022, set for priority consideration. Further, it stipulates administrative updates regarding project performance periods, including expectations for deliverables and the potential for multiple contract option periods. This announcement serves as a vital mechanism for soliciting research that addresses current and anticipated threats to national security within the context of government contracting processes.

The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004 Amendment 07 updates the Defense Threat Reduction Agency's (DTRA) solicitation for research on countering weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and emerging threats. DTRA seeks analytical research from the expert community to inform military operations and mitigate future threats within a timeframe of 5 to 10 years. The agency has identified specific research thrust areas, including strategic dialogues and studies to characterize future battlefields concerning WMD-relevant challenges. Key objectives prioritize understanding bilateral and multilateral defense issues with allies and fostering recommendations for U.S. military responses. The amendment specifies submission timelines, with priority for FY 2024 funding due by October 16, 2023, and establishes deliverable requirements for awarded projects. All U.S.-based entities and eligible foreign organizations are invited to submit white papers, focusing on actionable insights rather than assistance or advisory services. This amendment emphasizes DTRA's commitment to engaging the research community to enhance national security and counter WMD threats effectively.

The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004 Amendment 08 notes the postponement of the Research Topic Information Session (RTIS) scheduled for October 4, 2023, due to a potential government shutdown beginning at midnight on September 30, 2023. This amendment communicates the uncertainty surrounding appropriations discussions and outlines the impact on event scheduling and deadlines for white paper submissions, which will be adjusted accordingly. Registration for the RTIS remains open, and correspondence and white papers can still be submitted to designated mailboxes, although processing will be delayed until staff return. The announcement concludes with contact information for various thrust areas and administrative queries, emphasizing that responses will be managed in the order received once operations resume. This document reflects the impact of fiscal uncertainties on federal government operations and communications regarding research initiatives.

This amendment to Broad Agency Announcement HDTRA1-22-S-0004 communicates updates regarding the Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI). The Research Topic Information Session (RTIS) is rescheduled for October 12, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM EDT, to discuss FY 2024 research priorities and submission criteria for white papers. Participants may ask questions related to research priorities and contractual topics, and it is advised to review BAA Amendment 7 prior to attendance. Registration for the RTIS, which is mandatory, must be completed by October 10, 2023, with a specified format for the registration email. Automatic registration is provided for those who had previously signed up for the October 4 session. The deadline for white paper submissions to be considered for priority funding is now October 23, 2023, after which submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis. This initiative supports the Department of Defense's research activities and emphasizes the importance of timely submission for funding consideration. Overall, the document serves to inform stakeholders about changes in scheduling and submission protocols essential for participation in government research funding opportunities.

The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004 Amendment 10 addresses questions from the DTRA Strategic Trends Office's Industry Day held on October 12, 2023. It encourages innovative research proposals within specified thrust areas, emphasizing flexible submission guidelines and the importance of aligning with DTRA objectives. The document outlines eligibility differences between the BAA and Government Call submissions, particularly for various research entities. Funding levels remain unspecified, emphasizing competitive pricing and justification for proposed costs. Project teams are allowed co-Principal Investigators, with a focus on mentorship for junior researchers. DTRA supports international collaboration but assesses associated risks, particularly regarding participation from certain countries. Submission procedures, including white paper formatting and evaluation timelines, are detailed, emphasizing the need for timely proposals. DTRA aims to streamline award timelines, prioritizing projects slated to begin in FY 2024. Regular updates on project lists and award outcomes will be published on SAM.gov, reinforcing transparency and public engagement regarding DTRA's counter-WMD mission. Overall, the BAA encourages diverse and innovative research to enhance national security-related efforts.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) held an information session presented by the Strategic Trends Office (SI-ST) to outline its FY24 applied research requirements related to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) threats. The session included introductions, an overview of DTRA, and guidance on submission processes for potential research projects under Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004. Key thrust areas focus on WMD-related dialogues and research studies anticipating future challenges. The initiative aims to encourage collaboration and innovative problem-solving, targeting national defense priorities. Eligible organizations include U.S.-based entities and allied international research institutions. A two-phase submission process requires an initial white paper followed by a detailed proposal. Deliverables include technical reports and progress updates, all designed to enhance understanding and preparedness for emerging threats. Priority topics encompass strategic challenges related to adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran, as well as emerging disruptive technologies. The document emphasizes DTRA’s intent to foster impactful research while maintaining a commitment to national security and effective resource allocation within the defense sector.

The Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) report outlines projects and studies proposed or completed between Fiscal Year 2020-2022, focusing on national security threats primarily related to China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. The studies aim to evaluate the security landscape, detailing the shifting dynamics in great power competition, nuclear strategy, and deterrence implications. Notable completed studies include analyses on Chinese military modernization and the Russia-Turkey alliance's impact on U.S. strategy. Ongoing research addresses scenarios of conflict such as potential Chinese actions against Taiwan and implications of nuclear deterrence strategies across various regions. Additionally, the initiative involves tabletop exercises and strategic dialogues with U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia, aiming to enhance collective responses and resilience against adversarial threats. The document presents a structured overview of both completed and current efforts to assess and respond to complex geopolitical challenges, demonstrating the federal government's commitment to adapting its defense strategies in an evolving global landscape.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has issued Broad Area Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-22-S-0004, seeking white papers and proposals from qualified research institutions. The initiative aims to address Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and emerging threats by generating actionable insights and recommendations relevant to military operations over the next five to ten years. Research projects under the Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) will characterize future battlespaces, informing DTRA and Department of Defense (DoD) operations, investments, and collaborations with allies. DTRA emphasizes the creation of analytic research reports derived from strategic dialogues, workshops, or tabletop exercises. These deliverables will focus on answering specific research questions through rigorous analysis rather than merely conducting events. The goal is to enhance applied scientific and technical knowledge within key mission areas related to DTRA's objectives, ensuring the research aligns with their operational needs. Overall, this BAA signifies DTRA's commitment to advancing military readiness and strategic insight in an evolving security landscape.