Amendment No. 3 to BAA FA8750-23-S-7009 outlines updates to the Science and Technology (S&T) protection policies for proposal submissions related to Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) funding. It emphasizes a Security Risk Review for all proposals to mitigate undue foreign influence, regardless of nationality or citizenship. Applicants must submit various forms, including a Research and Related Senior and Key Person Profile, Security Program Questionnaire, and Privacy Act Statements for covered individuals. Key personnel must disclose current and pending research support and any involvement in foreign talent programs throughout the project duration. The evaluation of proposals will be conducted exclusively by government personnel to ensure adherence to S&T protection. Proposals will undergo two review stages: white paper assessments followed by formal proposal evaluations. The government reserves the right to fund some, all, or none of the proposals based on available resources and the assessments’ outcomes. Should security risks exceed acceptable thresholds, applicants will be notified of declination. The document highlights the importance of security and compliance within the funding process for research and development projects, ensuring national interests are safeguarded.

The Department of the Air Force is announcing the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Ultra-broadband Terahertz Radio Development," identified as FA8750-23-S-7009. This initiative seeks innovative research to develop ultra-broadband communication technologies operating above 100 GHz for Air Force applications, especially in contested spectrum environments. The BAA is open until September 19, 2028, inviting white papers with deadlines aligned to fiscal years; approximately $9.9M in funding is available, with individual awards likely ranging from $200K to $4M, typically for 36 months. Submissions will be evaluated based on criteria including scientific merit, relevant experience, and cost realism. Foreign participation is restricted, barring certain fundamental research exceptions. The proposal process has two steps: initial white paper submission followed by an invitation for a detailed proposal for those selected. Interested parties are encouraged to attend an Industry Day for further details. The document outlines eligibility requirements, funding information, award types, and essential submission guidelines, highlighting the Air Force’s commitment to advancing terahertz communication capabilities through collaborative research and development efforts.

This document is Amendment 2 to Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7009, issued by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to solicit research and development proposals for ultra-broadband terahertz radio systems. The purpose is to enhance communication capabilities in contested environments operating above 100 GHz. Key updates in this amendment include modifications to proposal formatting, assistance listings, and debriefing language, while remaining effective until September 19, 2028. The BAA anticipates about $9.9 million in funding, with individual awards ranging from $200,000 to $4 million, and selection based on scientific merit, experience, and cost realism. Eligible offerors must include U.S. participation; foreign entities are not permitted unless the research is classified as fundamental. Proposals are to be submitted as white papers initially, and successful submissions may lead to further formal proposal invitations. The document emphasizes the DoD's policies on fundamental research, cloud computing, conflicts of interest, and compliance regulations for human subject research. It outlines application procedures, criteria for evaluation, and communication protocols, promoting industry collaboration while maintaining stringent oversight on security and compliance. The comprehensive guide aims to advance terahertz communications technology critical for future air force applications.