SPACE PROPULSION RESEARCH AND INNOVATION FOR NEUTRALIZING SATELLITE THREATS (SPRINT) BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT (BAA)
ID: BAA-RQR-2019-0001Type: Presolicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA9300 AFTC PZREDWARDS AFB, CA, 93524-1185, USA

NAICS

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

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; ATOMIC ENERGY DEFENSE ACTIVITIES; BASIC RESEARCH (AC21)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory, is seeking innovative research proposals through the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) for the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program. This initiative aims to enhance spacecraft propulsion technologies to improve resilience against potential satellite threats, with a focus on various propulsion systems including chemical and electric thrusters. The program is critical for advancing national security capabilities and fostering technological innovation in aerospace. Eligible applicants, particularly small businesses, can submit white papers at any time during the 20-year open period, with anticipated contract awards ranging from $100,000 to over $50 million based on proposal quality and funding availability. For further inquiries, interested parties may contact Jillian Marroquin at jillian.marroquin@us.af.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) issues a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) focusing on Space Propulsion Research in Neutralizing Threats, highlighting the need for advancements in propulsion technologies for defense applications. The BAA outlines six key topic areas seeking innovative solutions, emphasizing the development of chemical and electric propulsion systems. AFRL's In-Space Propulsion Program is collaborating with various stakeholders including government and industry to enhance propulsion capabilities. The document details four primary technical goals: improving test and flight demonstration capabilities, advancing ionic liquid chemical propulsion, exploring electrospray propulsion technologies, and developing pulsed electromagnetic propulsion systems. Significant efforts are underway to transition from traditional hydrazine to safer, higher-performance alternatives like advanced ionic liquids, particularly AF-M315E. The program aims to optimize thruster designs and propel integrated solutions for efficient spacecraft operation. The document showcases ongoing research and development projects, including high-efficiency thruster demonstrations and the pursuit of multimode propulsion systems. Through extensive testing and evaluations, AFRL seeks to ensure technology integration, enhance mission capability, and maintain a competitive edge in space propulsion technologies, contributing to the overall national security and effectiveness of U.S. military operations.
    The attachment from the Air Force Research Laboratory outlines questions and answers regarding the Space Propulsion Research Initiative targeting advanced propulsion technologies for the Department of Defense. It details the AFRL's focus on various propulsion areas, including advanced chemical propulsion, ionic liquid systems, and electrospray technologies, while emphasizing the integration of these technologies into military spacecraft. Ongoing research aims to enhance propulsion efficiency and reduce reliance on hazardous propellants like hydrazine, with significant development expected in advanced ionic liquids and pulsed electromagnetic propulsion systems.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) invites innovative research proposals focused on advancing space propulsion technologies pertinent to satellite resilience. This open solicitation encourages participation from various offerors, especially small businesses, and outlines specific technology areas of interest, including chemical and electric propulsion systems, simulation studies, and operational constructs. The document details the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and funding parameters, indicating anticipated awards ranging from $100K to $10M. Proposals can be submitted anytime during the five-year open period, and the evaluation process is outlined, emphasizing the government's intention to award multiple contracts based on the quality of submissions. Key deliverables include technical and scientific reports, software, hardware, and the return of government property. Offerors are guided through white paper preparation requirements, including content organization, formatting, and submission protocols. Overall, this BAA serves as a formal mechanism for the government to engage with companies and research entities to foster advancements in space propulsion, vital for national security and technological superiority in aerospace endeavors.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory released Broad Agency Announcement BAA-RQR-2019-0001 to solicit innovative research proposals for the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program, aimed at enhancing spacecraft propulsion technologies. This open solicitation invites submissions of white papers over a five-year period with multiple anticipated awards ranging from $100K to $10M, dependent on proposal quality and available funding. Interested offerors should comply with specified eligibility requirements and submit proposals detailing their technical approach and costs, with a focus on advancing spacecraft resilience through various propulsion technologies.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) to solicit innovative research proposals focused on improving spacecraft propulsion technologies aimed at enhancing spacecraft resiliency against threats. This open BAA includes a five-year submission period for white papers and proposals across various propulsion systems such as chemical monopropellant and bipropellant thrusters, electric propulsion, and multi-mode thrusters. The estimated program cost is $95 million, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $10 million. Eligible applicants include unrestricted participants, with a particular encouragement for small businesses, while foreign entities are excluded. Offerors are required to submit white papers detailing their proposed research and expected costs, which will undergo a review process to determine alignment with Air Force needs. Successful submissions may lead to contracts, with various deliverables specified, including technical reports and software. The document emphasizes data rights, with the government aiming to retain unlimited rights to technical data to facilitate competition and transition of developed technologies. This BAA serves as a strategic initiative to bolster national defense capabilities through advanced propulsion technologies.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory's Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) seeks innovative proposals for the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT), aiming to enhance spacecraft propulsion technologies for resiliency. Individual awards are expected to range from $100K to $10M, with a total program funding estimated at $95M over a five-year open period, promoting collaboration with small businesses and unrestricted applications, while adherence to military technical agreements is required. Proposals must be submitted as white papers, with detailed evaluations leading to potential contract awards based on technical merit and funding availability.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) to solicit research proposals focused on space propulsion technologies aimed at improving spacecraft resiliency. The initiative, titled "Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats" (SPRINT), encourages innovative concepts and proposals in various propulsion areas including chemical monopropellant, bipropellant, and electric thrusters. The funding for selected proposals may range from $100K to $10M, with an anticipated program cost of $95M. This open solicitation permits continuous white paper submissions over a five-year period, fostering competition among eligible applicants, including small businesses. The BAA details the proposal preparation process, specific deliverables, eligibility criteria, and evaluation procedures. Proposals undergoing review will be categorized as "Highly Recommended," "Selectable," or "Not Selectable," with the government reserving the right to negotiate terms for funding. The document underscores the importance of technical data rights, requiring offerors to delineate their claims regarding the ownership and usage of any developed technology. Overall, this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to advancing space propulsion technologies for strategic aerospace applications.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory announced an open Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT)," aimed at soliciting innovative research proposals for in-space propulsion technologies over a five-year period with an estimated program cost of $95 million. Eligible offerors include unrestricted applicants, with small businesses encouraged to participate, and submissions can be made via white papers throughout the open period. Awards will vary in size from $100K to $10M, depending on the quality of proposals and the availability of funds.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) to solicit innovative research proposals for the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program, which aims to enhance spacecraft propulsion technologies. The BAA is open for five years, is unrestricted, and encourages small businesses to submit white papers and proposals focusing on various propulsion technologies, including chemical and electric systems. Estimated program costs are around $95 million, with individual contract awards anticipated between $100,000 and $10 million, depending on the quality of proposals received and available funding.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) focuses on the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT). It invites proposals to enhance spacecraft resilience through innovative propulsion technologies. The program supports research, development contracts, and explores a range of propulsion systems, including chemical and electric thrusters, and multi-mode options. The BAA outlines eligibility criteria, encouraging small businesses to participate while excluding foreign entities. The anticipated funding for contracts ranges from $100,000 to $10 million, with an overall program budget of $95 million. Proposals may be submitted throughout the five-year open period, with an emphasis on white papers initially to gauge interest. Key deliverables include scientific reports, software, and hardware, subject to specific requirements provided in the individual proposals. The evaluation process for proposals will assess technical approaches and interest from the government, allowing for potential negotiations following selection. Overall, the BAA aims to foster innovative approaches to address national security issues surrounding satellite threats through enhanced propulsion technology.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) focused on the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT). This announcement invites proposals for innovative research in spacecraft propulsion technologies aimed at enhancing resiliency, including chemical monopropellant and bipropellant thrusters, electric propulsion systems, and mission utility research. It allows for open submissions of white papers over a 20-year period, encouraging participation from small businesses and outlining deliverable requirements such as reports and hardware. The anticipated funding for individual contracts ranges from $100K to $10M, with multiple awards expected based on proposal quality and available funding. Eligible applicants must not be foreign entities and should comply with necessary agreements concerning military critical technical data. The document also specifies proposal submission processes, evaluation criteria, and contract award mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of technical and cost considerations. Additionally, the announcement underscores the government's interest in retaining rights to technical data developed under this program while providing guidelines for proposal structure, review, and notifications for applicants.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) to solicit innovative research proposals aimed at advancing space propulsion technologies through the "Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats" (SPRINT) program. This announcement is open for a period of 20 years, encourages participation from small businesses, and allows for the submission of white papers and proposals on various topics related to spacecraft propulsion systems with funding expected to range from $100K to over $50M per contract. Eligible applicants must adhere to specific submission guidelines and are advised on the importance of following outlined procedures for technical data rights and contracting processes.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory is issuing Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) to solicit innovative research proposals focused on space propulsion technology with applications to enhance spacecraft resiliency and counter satellite threats, under the SPRIT program. This unrestricted solicitation encourages small business participation and will remain open for 20 years, allowing for the submission of white papers and specific proposals based on individual calls. Awards are anticipated to range from $100K to over $50M, with an emphasis on technical innovation and appropriate development timelines.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) seeks innovative research proposals focused on Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT). This open BAA encourages submissions for technologies that enhance spacecraft propulsion systems to improve resiliency against threats, with anticipated awards ranging from $100K to over $50M. Eligible applicants include a wide range of organizations, particularly small businesses, but foreign firms are excluded. The document outlines detailed instructions for proposal submission, including requirements for white papers, proposal evaluations, and expected deliverables such as reports and software. It specifies evaluation criteria focused on technical approaches aligned with identified technological needs. The proposal process emphasizes transparency, with multiple awards anticipated based on available funding and proposal quality. The BAA spans a 20-year open submission period, indicating ongoing interest in innovative propulsion technologies. Emphasis is placed on the expectation of unlimited data rights for government-developed technologies, although offers are also welcomed that involve mixed funding. Overall, the BAA illustrates the U.S. government's commitment to advancing national defense capabilities through research and development partnerships, fostering innovation in a critical aerospace domain.
    The document is a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) for a program titled Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT). It aims to solicit innovative research proposals to enhance spacecraft propulsion technologies, focusing on improving resiliency against satellite threats. The BAA encourages submissions from all eligible entities, including small businesses, and spans an open period of five years with a budget of approximately $95 million. Key areas of interest include various thruster technologies, plume phenomenology, and mission utility studies. Eligible applicants must register with the Defense Logistics Services Center, ensuring compliance with Military Critical Technical Data Agreements. Proposals can be submitted as white papers at any time during the open period, with evaluations based on technical approach, research relevance, and funding availability. The announcement outlines requirements for proposal submission, review criteria, and potential awards up to $10 million for individual projects. The BAA emphasizes the importance of technical data rights and may allow classified information consideration. Overall, the SPRINT BAA manifests the Air Force's commitment to advancing space propulsion research, ensuring national security through technological innovation.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) for research proposals related to in-space propulsion technologies aimed at enhancing spacecraft resiliency, particularly under the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program. This open announcement allows for submission of white papers over a five-year period, with awards anticipated ranging from $100K to $10M, depending on proposal quality and funding availability. Eligible participants, including small businesses, are encouraged to submit proposals in response to specific calls, with a focus on advancing various propulsion technologies and related research activities.
    The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR-2019-0001) issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory seeks innovative research proposals under the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program. This open BAA invites submission of white papers focused on developing advanced in-space propulsion technologies to enhance spacecraft resiliency. The BAA is open for 20 years, encouraging participation from small businesses and other eligible entities. Key deliverables include technical and scientific reports, with multiple contract awards anticipated ranging from $100K to over $50M, depending on proposal quality and funding availability. Eligible applicants must comply with specific security agreements and may include federally funded research centers with prior approval. Proposals will undergo evaluations based on technical merit and cost effectiveness. The document outlines proposal submission requirements, scheduled evaluations, and specific communication protocols with Air Force representatives. The aim is to facilitate innovation in propulsion systems pertinent to space missions while adhering to government regulations and fostering public-private collaboration. Through this initiative, the Air Force aims to improve the effectiveness of current and future aerospace capabilities in response to evolving satellite threats.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory has issued Amendment 6 to Broad Agency Announcement BAA-RQR-2019-0001, which solicits innovative research proposals under the Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT) program. This open solicitation encourages participation from small businesses, with a focus on developing in-space propulsion technologies and ensuring proposals align with specified research needs. The program will accept white papers over a 20-year period, potentially leading to multiple contract awards with estimated individual values ranging from $100,000 to $10 million.
    The Broad Agency Announcement BAA-RQR-2019-0001 from the Air Force Research Laboratory outlines a strategic initiative for Space Propulsion Research and Innovation aimed at enhancing resilient spacecraft propulsion technologies. This unrestricted solicitation invites innovative research proposals concerning various propulsion systems, including chemical and electric thrusters. The program anticipates funding multiple contracts ranging from $100K to over $50M, with awards made based on proposal evaluations and funding availability. Small businesses are encouraged to participate, though foreign entities are barred from applying. Proposals should focus on delivering technical and scientific reports, with a maximum project duration of 60 months. The announcement includes detailed submission guidelines, a review process evaluating technical approaches and government interests, and requirements for data rights concerning developed technologies. Overall, this BAA highlights the Air Force's commitment to advancing aerospace systems through collaborative R&D efforts, signaling an open opportunity for both innovation and industry engagement.
    The document appears to be a Basic Acquisition Announcement (BAA) pertaining to a request for proposals (RFP), specifically titled BAA-RQR-2019-0001. It outlines a program focused on a particular technology area, providing space for the applicant's company information, including contact details for both contracting and technical points of contact. The file emphasizes the importance of selecting the appropriate topic area, which indicates a structured approach towards gathering proposals relevant to specific government needs. This form essentially serves as a template for potential contractors, facilitating their submission of proposals tailored to governmental requirements. Its structured design is intended to streamline communication and ensure that submissions are complete with essential information, aiding in the evaluation process of the proposals for federal grants and contracts.
    The document BAA-RQR-2019-0001 serves as a title page for a program concerning a specific technology area topic. It includes placeholder fields for company information, such as the name, CAGE code, DUNS number, and contacts for contracting and technical points of contact. The document is structured as a form to gather essential information for program participation.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Space Propulsion Research and Innovation for Neutralizing Satellite Threats (SPRINT)" focusing on innovative space propulsion technologies. This open BAA invites research proposals aimed at enhancing spacecraft resiliency through a variety of propulsion systems, including chemical monopropellant, bipropellant, electric propulsion, and multi-mode thrusters, while considering classified information access when necessary. The anticipated funding for individual contracts ranges from $100K to $10M, with a total program cost estimated at $95M. Proposals, including white papers, are to be submitted via email during the five-year open period, responding to specific calls as issued by the government. Evaluation of submissions will assess technical alignment, funding availability, and potential benefits to the Air Force. The document outlines eligibility requirements for offerors—emphasizing small businesses—and details proposal preparation and submission guidelines, including formatting and content criteria. Awarding will occur based on proposal evaluations, with multiple contracts expected to be available. Overall, this announcement signifies the government's commitment to advancing aerospace technology while actively engaging industry participation in relevant research and development efforts.
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued an amendment to its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA-RQR -2019-0001-FA9300-19-S-0001) aimed at soliciting proposals for innovative research in space propulsion technologies under the SPRINT program. This unrestricted solicitation encourages participation from small businesses and has an open submission period of five years, with expected funding between $100,000 to $10 million per contract for projects focused on enhancing spacecraft resiliency against potential satellite threats. Proposers must submit white papers and are advised to follow specific requirements regarding data rights and deliverables as outlined in the announcement.
    Similar Opportunities
    Space Technology Advanced Research (STAR)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the Space Technology Advanced Research (STAR) initiative, aimed at advancing research and development in space-flight and associated technologies. Interested firms are invited to submit white papers detailing their innovative solutions to enhance space vehicle functionality, mission capabilities, and anomaly detection, with funding awards ranging from $50,000 to $100 million and no limit on the number of submissions. This initiative is crucial for strengthening U.S. national defense capabilities in the space domain, and potential offerors must ensure compliance with eligibility criteria, including registration in the System for Award Management (SAM). For inquiries, interested parties can contact the primary contracting officer, Daniel J. Alvarado, at daniel.alvarado.12@spaceforce.mil or 505-853-4755, and are encouraged to check the Contract Opportunities portal for updates and submission guidelines.
    FY25 Propulsion and Power Technology Development Program Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Naval Air Warfare Center Air Division, is soliciting white papers for the FY25 Propulsion and Power Technology Development Program under a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA). This initiative aims to enhance the capabilities and affordability of Naval aircraft through research in five primary focus areas: Advanced Aircraft Electrical Power Systems, Fuel and Lubricant Technology, Aircraft Operational Energy Technology, Condition Based Maintenance (CBM), and Advanced Propulsion System Technology. Eligible offerors, including small businesses and minority institutions, are encouraged to submit proposals that demonstrate scientific merit and operational relevance to Navy objectives, with a two-step proposal process involving initial white papers followed by formal proposals. White papers are due by September 30, 2025, and should be submitted to Brandon Reaser at brandon.p.reaser.civ@us.navy.mil. The Navy reserves the right to select any or none of the responses received, with funding anticipated between FY 2025 and FY 2029 based on budget availability.
    Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting proposals for the Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering, and Research (PACER) initiative, specifically targeting advancements in aerospace technologies. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) aims to foster innovative research and development efforts in areas such as propulsion technologies, autonomous systems, and vehicle integration, with a focus on achieving high technology readiness levels (TRL). The initiative is critical for enhancing military capabilities and ensuring the U.S. maintains a technological edge in aerospace operations. Interested parties must submit their proposals electronically via DoD SAFE by the specified deadlines, with the first submission due for the Aggressive Embedded Propulsion & Operability (AEPO) program by January 27, 2025, and the Survivable Next-generation Autonomous Propulsion and Power (SNAPP) program by November 4, 2024. For further inquiries, contact Peter Seiley at Peter.Seiley@us.af.mil.
    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.
    AFRL Rocket Lab Hermes BAA
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is soliciting innovative research proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA9300-20-S-0001, titled "AFRL Rocket Lab Hermes BAA." This opportunity invites small businesses and other eligible applicants to submit white papers focused on advanced propulsion technologies, including solid rocket motors, liquid rocket engines, and air-breathing turbine engines, with the aim of enhancing military capabilities and developing critical technologies for national security. The BAA allows for multiple awards, each not exceeding $100 million, and emphasizes the importance of compliance with technical data sharing and safeguarding sensitive information. Interested parties should direct inquiries to Jillian Marroquin at jillian.marroquin@us.af.mil, and are encouraged to participate in a Virtual Industry Day scheduled for March 4, 2024, to discuss the Payload Processing Facility requirements.
    Air Dominance Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Air Dominance" to solicit proposals for research and development in advanced munitions technology. This initiative aims to fulfill Air Dominance R&D requirements across 13 key research areas, including Modeling, Simulation, & Analysis, innovative aircraft integration technologies, and advanced missile propulsion systems. The BAA is critical for enhancing the effectiveness and survivability of U.S. military capabilities in contested environments, with an anticipated funding amount of up to $750 million over five years. Interested parties are encouraged to submit white papers detailing their proposed approaches, and they can contact Amy Fortenberry at amy.fortenberry.1@us.af.mil or Pamela King-Hasberry at pamela.king-hasberry.1@us.af.mil for further information.
    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.
    SDA Battle Management Mission Applications (Program BAA)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to procure innovative software applications to enhance situational awareness and decision-making capabilities for military space operations. The focus is on developing containerized applications for the Battle Management Command, Control, and Communications (BMC3) module of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) system in Low Earth Orbit. The solicitation seeks cutting-edge solutions from vendors for several key areas, including BMC3 management, power and resource optimization, and cybersecurity, with an emphasis on near-real-time performance and proactive measures. Vendors are invited to submit White Papers for initial review, leading to potential invitations for full proposals. The agency prioritizes rapid deployment, encouraging bidders to propose schedules accordingly. Important deadlines include the submission of White Papers by June 19th, 2024, and Proposals by May 19th, 2025. The SDA reserves the right to issue amendments and extend deadlines, with selections made based on technical merit, mission relevance, and available funding. Contact ussf.pentagon.sda.mbx.FA240124S0002@mail.mil for more 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.
    Nuclear Thermal Rocket Propulsion RFI
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative solutions for space-qualified nuclear thermal rocket propulsion engine design and integration through a Request for Information (RFI). This initiative aims to identify sources capable of providing advanced capabilities in engine design, modeling, simulation, and autonomous control, with a focus on safety analysis for nuclear launch authorization from the Department of Defense. The RFI is part of DARPA's collaboration with NASA's DRACO program, which seeks to enhance U.S. military capabilities and support future human missions to Mars by developing a compact nuclear thermal rocket engine fueled by high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU). Responses to this RFI are due by January 20, 2025, and interested parties can contact the TTO BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-25-21@darpa.mil for further information.