Sync
ID: DARPA-PS-24-23Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEFENSE ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGENCY (DARPA)DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCYARLINGTON, VA, 222032114, 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; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AC13)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/5aa0db47fb974d2a93cc3941095b8e44/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative research proposals for the Sync program, aimed at developing systems to counter uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) that pose threats to U.S. harbors and ports. The program seeks to explore unconventional methods for UUV defense that do not rely on complex detection and localization techniques, starting with modeling and simulation and progressing to hardware testing. This initiative is crucial for enhancing maritime security against evolving threats, with a total funding amount of $11.3 million available for multiple awards under Other Transaction for Prototype agreements. Interested parties must submit abstracts by October 22, 2024, and can direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PS-24-23@darpa.mil for further information, including access to a classified addendum.

    Point(s) of Contact
    BAA Coordinator
    DARPA-PS-24-23@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DARPA-PS-24-23.pdf
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has announced the Sync program, soliciting research proposals aimed at developing systems to defend against uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) that may infiltrate U.S. harbors and ports. The solicitation is categorized under DARPA-PS-24-23, with an initial announcement date of September 11, 2024, and abstract submissions due by October 15, 2024, at 5:00 PM ET. Multiple awards may be granted, totaling $11.3 million, under Other Transaction for Prototype agreements. The Sync program is structured to investigate alternative methods to counter UUV threats without relying heavily on detection and localization. The program encompasses a 15-month Base Period and may extend into additional phases based on performance evaluations. Proposers, including businesses and research institutions, are encouraged to submit abstracts for consideration, which, if selected, may lead to oral presentations and further funding opportunities. Additionally, inquiries regarding classified materials are handled through a formal request process. This solicitation emphasizes the government's commitment to enhancing maritime security technologies against evolving threats.
    DARPA-PS-24-23 Sync_10OCTT24.pdf
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has released a program solicitation (DARPA-PS-24-23) for innovative research proposals under the "Sync" funding opportunity. This initiative targets the development of systems to protect U.S. harbors and ports from uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs). Key dates include the abstract submission deadline on October 22, 2024, with a proposer’s day scheduled for October 1, 2024. DARPA plans to award multiple contracts, totaling $11.3 million, focusing on unconventional methods that do not depend on UUV detection and localization for denial strategies. The program will begin with modeling and simulation before advancing to hardware testing. A classified addendum with further program details is available upon request, emphasizing eligibility for various entities including small businesses and research institutions. The evaluation process for submitted abstracts and oral presentations will be based on specified criteria outlined in the classified addendum. The Sync program aims to foster innovative defense solutions against potential UUV threats through collaboration across various sectors.
    DARPA-PS-24-23 Sync 03OCTT24.docx
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) announces the Sync program, soliciting innovative research proposals to create systems that defend against uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) entering U.S. ports and harbors. The initial announcement, DARPA-PS-24-23, invites submissions for proposals with a budget of $11.3 million, expected to result in multiple awards. Proposals must be submitted as abstracts by October 15, 2024, followed by potential oral presentations for selected candidates. The Sync program focuses on methods to counter UUVs without relying on complex detection systems, employing a phased approach from modeling and simulation to hardware testing. Notably, the program is classified, necessitating a request for a classified addendum by October 4, 2024, to access further information. Abstracts and presentations will be evaluated based on specific criteria outlined in the classified materials. Overall, the program seeks contributions from diverse entities, including small businesses and research institutions, to develop effective security solutions against underwater threats.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    Sync
    Currently viewing
    Solicitation
    Similar Opportunities
    Albatross
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is soliciting proposals for the Albatross program, which aims to enhance the range and endurance of small uncrewed aerial systems (s-UAS) by developing autonomous soaring capabilities. The program focuses on integrating advanced planning tools, control systems, and sensors to enable energy harvesting from environmental conditions, thereby reducing onboard power demands and extending flight capabilities. This initiative is critical for advancing defense technologies and optimizing operational efficiency in various atmospheric conditions. Interested parties should submit their proposals by November 15, 2024, and can direct inquiries to the Solicitation Coordinator at DARPA-PS-24-13@darpa.mil. The program anticipates awards structured as Other Transactions for Prototypes, with evaluations based on energy efficiency and adherence to FAA regulations.
    Long Range BAA for the Undersea Security Program
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    Here is a summary of the federal contract opportunity, titled Long Range BAA for the Undersea Security Program: Opportunity Overview The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Navy's Strategic Systems Programs office, seeks proposals for its Undersea Security Program. This Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) invites innovative solutions and services in the realm of undersea warfare and submarine security. The primary objectives are to enhance undersea capabilities and improve submarine survivability. Scope of Work Successful awardees will be expected to perform tasks encompassing research, analysis, and development. This includes wargaming, modeling, and assessments of undersea warfare scenarios, as well as developing strategies to improve the survivability of submarines and unmanned undersea systems. The focus should be on delivering comprehensive reports, both progress and final, along with any associated software or hardware outputs. Awardees will be required to adhere to strict timelines and provide regular updates. Eligibility Criteria Proposers for this contract must demonstrate expertise and experience in their respective fields, aligning with the specific research and development objectives. The Navy encourages participation from small businesses and requires large businesses to have a subcontracting plan in place. Offerors must strictly adhere to the numerous FAR, DFARS, and NMCARS provisions mentioned in the BAA, encompassing cybersecurity, telecommunications, and equal opportunity requirements. Additionally, they must ensure compliance with the required security measures and controlled unclassified information safeguards. Funding and Contract Details The contract is expected to be funded through the Department of the Navy's budget. The BAA remains open for a period of approximately one year, with periodic reviews of submissions. Key funding details include an estimated value of between $100,000 and $500,000 for individual awards. Submission Process Proposals must be submitted electronically, with a deadline of August 10, 2024, or until a successor BAA is issued. The Navy encourages offerors to carefully follow the specified format requirements, ensuring compliance with the detailed cost proposal guidelines and the provision of certified cost and pricing data. Evaluation Criteria Evaluation of proposals will consider three primary factors: technical merit, naval relevance, and availability of funds. The technical merit of proposals will be assessed based on the thoroughness and reasonableness of the approach, while cost-effectiveness and compliance with relevant regulations will also be taken into account. Contact Information For further clarification or inquiries, interested parties can contact the primary point of contact, David Shriner, at david.shriner@ssp.navy.mil or (202) 451-3262. A secondary point of contact is also provided: Alexandra Hiser at alexandra.hiser@ssp.navy.mil or (202) 451-3623. This summary provides an overview of the key aspects of the opportunity, combining information from the government listing and associated files. Let me know if you would like me to clarify any part of the summary or extract any additional details from the files.
    Cost Efficient Cargo
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking innovative concepts for heavy lift Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) capable of transporting a 70,000 lb payload, as part of its Request for Information (RFI) initiative. This effort aims to address the Department of Defense's logistical challenges, particularly in "ship to shore" and "wide gap crossing" operations, where rapid transport of troops and supplies is critical. DARPA is looking for groundbreaking designs that utilize current Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) technology, with submissions required to include mission profiles, design specifications, cost estimates (targeting under $30 million for initial units), scalability, and performance metrics. Interested parties must submit concise white papers by December 20, 2024, to the BAA Coordinator at DARPA-SN-24-109@darpa.mil, noting that this RFI does not constitute a formal solicitation and submissions will not be reimbursed or returned.
    REQUEST FOR INFORMATION FOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND OBSTACLE LOCALIZATION AND MONITORING FOR UNCREWED VEHICLES
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights on technologies for localizing and monitoring seabed infrastructure and obstacles using uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) and uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs). The RFI specifically seeks information on sensing and automatic target recognition (ATR) capabilities to detect and monitor various underwater items, including cables, pipes, nets, boulders, and wrecks, as well as technologies that can remotely assess the condition of seabed infrastructure over time. This initiative is crucial for enhancing underwater operational capabilities and ensuring effective monitoring of critical infrastructure. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses, including product descriptions and technology details, by November 26, 2024, to the designated contacts, Trivia Massaline and Bryan Todd, via email.
    Heimdall PS
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), is soliciting proposals for the Heimdall program, which aims to develop secure Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) aids to enhance the performance of naval gun systems, specifically the Mk 160 Gun Computer System on U.S. Navy surface combatants. Proposals must demonstrate the ability to align with existing government architecture and data formats, facilitating a rapid transition to operational units while adhering to federal guidelines and security protocols. This initiative is critical for advancing defense technology and improving naval capabilities, with a total funding amount of $1,600,000 allocated for various project milestones, including development and integration phases. Interested parties should direct inquiries to the TTO BAA Coordinator at DARPA-PS-25-02@darpa.mil, with key submission deadlines and an Industry Day scheduled for October 8, 2024.
    GNSS DENIED NAVIGATION FOR AUTONOMOUS UNDERWATER AND SURFACE VEHICLES
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), is seeking information on advanced navigation solutions for uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) and uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) that can operate effectively without Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) support. The primary objective is to identify localization techniques that function in environments where prior maps are unavailable, utilizing various sensing modalities such as acoustic, electro-optic, and magnetic technologies. These solutions are critical for enhancing inertial navigation systems to reduce drift or enabling autonomous localization through methods like loop closure, particularly for military applications in challenging conditions. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their capabilities, including product descriptions and technology details, by November 26, 2024, to the primary contact, Brandon Hayes, at brandon.d.hayes11.civ@us.navy.mil, with additional inquiries directed to Peter Romaine at peter.d.romaine.civ@us.navy.mil.
    NIMBle Ultrafast microSystems (NIMBUS)
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for the NIMBle Ultrafast microSystems (NIMBUS) initiative, which focuses on innovative applied research in novel micro-mechanical oscillators aimed at enhancing precision navigation systems, particularly in GPS-denied environments. The initiative seeks to improve the scale-factor of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) by achieving velocities exceeding 200 m/s, addressing technical challenges such as transducer efficiency and material fatigue across two phases of development. With a total funding amount of $2 million, the project is structured into a 12-month Phase 1 for feasibility studies and a 12-month Phase 2 for proof of concept, with proposals due by December 16, 2024. Interested parties can contact the BAA Coordinator at NIMBUS@darpa.mil for further information.
    Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide BAA
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is inviting proposals for its Defense Sciences Office (DSO) Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), aimed at soliciting innovative research ideas that can lead to revolutionary advancements in national security applications. Proposals should focus on novel approaches rather than incremental improvements, covering key research areas such as Novel Materials & Structures, Sensing & Measurement, and Emerging Threats. This initiative is crucial for fostering advanced research that aligns with DARPA's mission to enhance national defense capabilities. Interested organizations can submit proposals until September 26, 2025, and should direct inquiries to the BAA Coordinator at HR001124S0039@darpa.mil.
    Microsystems Exploration
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking proposals for its Microsystems Exploration program, aimed at developing high-risk, high-reward technologies that can lead to significant advancements in materials, devices, and microsystems. The program encourages rapid responses to emerging opportunities with targeted investments, allowing for project initiation within 120 days of topic announcements, and funding up to $2 million for projects that include a feasibility study and proof of concept phases. This initiative is crucial for fostering innovative solutions in areas such as photonics and quantum computing, contributing to national security objectives. Interested applicants can reach out to Dr. Whitney Mason at DARPA-PA-25-01@darpa.mil for further information regarding submission requirements and deadlines.
    Naval Special Warfare Trident Spectre 25
    Active
    Dept Of Defense
    The U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command is exploring innovative technologies for its annual Trident Spectre Exercise (Trident Spectre 25), a government initiative focused on multi-agency collaboration and integration of operations. This edition aims to assess critical innovations that facilitate Special Operations Forces' operations in maritime domains, with a specific interest in undersea data mesh networks. Technology providers are invited to submit their solutions electronically via the Vulcan platform between 1 August and 30 August 2024. This opportunity offers a unique window into the world of special operations technology and a chance for industry and academic leaders to influence future naval operations.