Amendment No. 3 to BAA FA8750-23-S-7009 establishes updates to the Security and Technology (S&T) Protection language and review processes for Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) proposals. It stipulates that each proposal must undergo a Security Risk Review to assess potential foreign influence, following AFRL guidelines. Applicants must submit specific documentation, including profiles of key personnel and security questionnaires, ensuring all covered individuals are compliant with privacy and disclosure requirements. A central focus is on identifying foreign involvement through due diligence. Additionally, mechanisms for proposal evaluation are set, involving two main steps: white paper reviews to determine relevance and subsequent evaluations for proposal selection based on scientific merit and funding availability. All proposals will be assessed for security risks, and if significant risks are identified, notifications will be sent regarding award declines. The amendment reinforces a structured approach to safeguarding U.S. technology while fostering compliance within government-funded R&D projects.

The Department of the Air Force is issuing a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) titled "Ultra-broadband Terahertz Radio Development," seeking innovative research to create a radio communication system operating above 100 GHz. This initiative aims to enhance future Air Force communications in contested environments, building on previous efforts in Terahertz (THz) Communications. The BAA will accept white papers until September 19, 2028, with estimated funding of $9.9 million across five fiscal years. Individual awards typically range from $200K to $4M, with multiple awards expected. The project emphasizes collaboration among technical disciplines and successful proposers will work closely with Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) researchers for testing. Key performance metrics include a 200m threshold transmission range, 1 Gbps data rate capability, and precise beamforming. White paper submissions should detail the proposed approach within a 6-page limit, and eligibility is limited to U.S. entities, barring foreign participation. The submission dates align with fiscal year funding timelines, providing proposers opportunities to secure funding for their initiatives. Interested parties are encouraged to participate in an Industry Day scheduled for October 17, 2023, to learn more about the BAA. Overall, this BAA represents a critical government endeavor to advance communication technologies for military applications.

The document outlines the Amendment 2 to Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7009 by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), which seeks innovative research to develop ultra-broadband radio technology operating above 100 GHz for enhanced communications in contested spectrum environments. This announcement, which is effective until September 19, 2028, emphasizes the submission of white papers, with estimated total funding of approximately $9.9 million for awarded efforts typically ranging from $200K to $4M for up to 36 months. Key updates include changes to contract types, incorporation of the Assistance Listing number, and refined proposal submission guidelines. The BAA is open to domestic applicants only, with foreign participation generally prohibited unless specific conditions are met, such as fundamental research qualifications. Additionally, there is a focus on collaboration and the potential for multiple awards, dependent on performance capability and funding availability. Lastly, the document stresses the importance of compliance with various regulatory measures, including cybersecurity standards and human subject research regulations. The amendment serves as a critical initiative in advancing Air Force communications technology.