Strategic Trends Division Broad Agency Announcement (BAA)

Amendment 13 provides briefing slides from the DTRA Strategic Trends Division Industry Day/Research Topic Information Session and includes a summary of questions and answers from the event. The amendment also clarifies the submission dates and email addresses for white paper submissions relating to different thrust areas. Foreign organizations are required to partner with U.S. organizations as prime contractors in order to submit white papers or proposals.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has made changes to the Broad Area Announcement (BAA) and Attachments to reflect its current areas of interest, focusing on characterizing the 2027 to 2032 battlespace and seeking research papers that provide insight and recommendations on emerging threats. DTRA is also seeking strategic dialogues with allies and partners and tabletop exercises that strengthen its workforce's understanding of challenges and opportunities for DTRA's support in crisis or conflict situations involving weapons of mass destruction. Interested participants can register for a virtual Research Topic Information Session and submit white papers and proposals by specific deadlines.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has made changes to their Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) to reflect their current areas of interest for FY21. They are seeking unclassified studies focused on competition with revisionist powers and assessing and countering emerging WMD-related threats. The deadline for priority funding consideration is May 12, 2021.

1) SI-STT is interested in studies that address the National Defense Strategy's line of effort to strengthen alliances and partnerships, but studies focused on third party actors should be demonstrably relevant to countering the influence and aggression of great powers like Russia and China. 2) White Papers do not need to address all three Focus Areas, but it is important to identify which Thrust Area the White Paper addresses. 3) The STRI BAA does not fund conferences or symposia, but focuses on studies, dialogues, and tabletop exercises that provide operationally relevant insights and recommendations to DTRA and the Warfighter.

The Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) held an industry day to discuss their FY21 research requirements and topics of interest. The research focus areas include competition with revisionist powers, assessing and countering emerging WMD-related threats, strategic dialogues with allies and partners, and tabletop exercises focusing on competition. The submission process for white papers and proposals was outlined, with specific review periods for each project type.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has made changes to the Broad Area Announcement (BAA) and its attachments, reflecting current areas of interest. The BAA now includes three focus areas: establishing relationships with allies, understanding emerging capabilities, and identifying emerging WMD threats. Additionally, the BAA outlines four thrust areas for FY2021, including studies on competition with revisionist powers and assessing and countering emerging WMD-related threats. The BAA allows for unlimited proposals, with a maximum effort of one full-time equivalent per key personnel, and the period of performance for selected proposals is generally up to 12 months.

The Strategic Trends Division has modified the schedule for Phase I - White Paper submission review to January 2021. The review for studies will begin on January 5, 2021, for dialogues on January 12, 2021, and for tabletop exercises on January 19, 2021. There will be another BAA amendment outlining modifications to the FY2021 review period.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency has announced that the next Phase I - White Paper submission review will take place on October 9, 2020. No additional White Papers will be reviewed before this date due to the overwhelming response. The proposal evaluation process will continue for those who have been invited to submit proposals, and it is expected that the FY2020 funds will be awarded to the current invited participants.

The period of performance for the thrust area 5 white papers is suggested to be 12 months, but it can be shorter. There will be no multi-year awards. Sufficient information on the primary investigator should be provided in the white papers for evaluation. The deliverables specified in the BAA and the statement of research work template should be included, but additional deliverables may be considered if they are appropriate for the project. Publications and other written products should be discussed at the project kickoff meeting and may require information release review processes. Each proposed project will be evaluated based on the criteria in the BAA and expected benefit to the agency. A signature from an authorized officer at the institution is required for white paper submission. The deadline for first review of white paper applications/offers is April 2 and is not expected to change.

DTRA does not plan to adjust the suggested periods of performance for hosting Strategic Dialogues, but offers can propose alternative approaches to account for the fluid public health situation. Separate White Papers should be submitted for Strategic Dialogues in Thrust Area 5 and Thrust Area 6, unless there is a clear relationship between the two efforts. The funding for each project will depend on the benefit to the Agency, the depth of research, and the chosen Thrust Area. Other federal agencies are not eligible for fee-based research work under this BAA.

This document is a compilation of questions and answers related to BAA HDTRA-20-S-0002. It clarifies that a security clearance or facility security clearance is not required for the projects, and that the Research Topic Information Session was cancelled due to a public health emergency. It also states that multiple White Papers and Proposals from one organization or institution are acceptable, and that foreign nationals from allied nations may be included in research teams.

The Research Topic Information Session scheduled for March 18, 2020 has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 outbreak, and questions related to the acquisition and process can be submitted via email. Contact information for specific research thrust areas is provided for further inquiries.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency is hosting a Research Topic Information Session on March 18, 2020, to provide information on research requirements and topics of interest. The session will cover seven thrust areas for FY 2020 and explain submission procedures. Interested parties must register by March 10, 2020, and submit questions by March 13, 2020.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking research proposals through their Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) program. The program aims to generate insights into emerging threats within counter weapons of mass destruction (CWMD) and counter improvised threats (CIT) mission spaces. Researchers are invited to submit white papers and proposals in various focus areas aligned with the priorities of the 2018 National Defense Strategy.

The document outlines Amendment 10 of the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, focusing on guidance for researchers submitting White Papers related to the Strategic Integration for Science and Technology (SI-STT). It addresses key questions regarding research priorities tied to the National Defense Strategy (NDS), with an emphasis on Great Power Competition, particularly concerning adversaries like North Korea and Iran. Researchers are encouraged to propose studies relevant to strengthening alliances and countering adversarial influence. The announcement clarifies submission parameters, stressing that White Papers need not address all Focus Areas, and specifying restrictions on conference funding. It allows for collaborations among different organizations and outlines procedural details such as proposal requirements and funding considerations, including acceptable salary expenses for participants. Additionally, the BAA underscores the importance of ongoing communication between researchers and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), particularly in light of COVID-19, which may necessitate remote methodologies in project execution. The document ensures that proposals must adhere to organizational conflict guidelines and outlines evaluation criteria for funding decisions. Overall, it serves as a comprehensive guide for prospective applicants within the context of federal research funding processes.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has issued Broad Agency Announcement HDTRA1-20-S-0002, launching the Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) to solicit research proposals aimed at understanding emerging threats related to counter weapons of mass destruction and improvised threats from 2025 to 2030. This initiative aligns with the 2018 National Defense Strategy and seeks insights into effective military operations against strategic competitors. DTRA invites submissions from academia and industry focusing on five critical research areas, including exploring alliances to counter threats and the implications of emerging capabilities of adversaries. The process consists of two phases: Phase I involves submitting white papers, which, if approved, lead to Phase II submissions of detailed proposals. The anticipated funding is approximately $1.95 million annually, with no limit on proposals from an institution. The document outlines eligibility, evaluation criteria, and award administration, emphasizing the importance of operational relevance and technical merit in research proposals. Overall, the STRI aims to foster innovation and collaboration to enhance the U.S. military's understanding and response to future threats in a competitive global landscape.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has announced an amendment regarding the evaluation process for proposals under Broad Agency Announcement HDTRA1-20-S-0002. The upcoming Phase I - White Paper submission review is scheduled for October 9, 2020, with no further submissions being accepted prior to this date due to high response volume. The DTRA will proceed with evaluating invited proposals and aims to award Fiscal Year 2020 funds based on these submissions. For any acquisition or process-related inquiries, stakeholders are directed to submit questions via the provided email address. This document reflects DTRA's operational updates within the context of federal grant and RFP processes, indicating ongoing commitment to addressing defense-related research and development needs.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has amended its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, focusing on emerging threats in counter weapons of mass destruction (CWMD) and counter improvised threats (CIT). The DTRA’s Strategic Integration Directorate (SI-STT) has refocused its objectives and developed three key areas of interest: fostering relationships with key allies and non-traditional partners, assessing emerging threats from competitors, and developing methodologies to address future WMD challenges. Additionally, four thrust areas for Fiscal Year 2021 are outlined, consisting of analyses of competition with revisionist powers, assessments and countermeasures for emerging WMD threats, strategic dialogues with allies, and tabletop exercises to enhance military readiness. Researchers must submit proposals aligned with these thrusts, supported by detailed cost estimates and expected deliverables. Moreover, the BAA remains open indefinitely, with specified review periods for proposals. Proposals should include white papers and documentation around each thrust area, with a maximum funding period of twelve months. The amendment emphasizes operational relevance, timely research, and rigorous coordination with DTRA to ultimately inform future U.S. military operations and investments, reflecting current strategic priorities and global threat dynamics.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has issued an amendment to its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, altering the schedule for Phase I White Paper submissions. The new deadlines indicate that the review for studies will start on January 5, 2021, followed by dialogues on January 12, 2021, and tabletop exercises on January 19, 2021. To be considered for priority Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 funding, submissions must meet these revised timelines, as no additional White Papers will be reviewed prior to the stated cut-off dates. An upcoming BAA amendment will further clarify modifications to the focus areas and processes for the FY2021 review cycle. Interested parties are encouraged to consult the full solicitation document before submitting inquiries related to the application process via the provided email. The modifications aim to streamline the submission and review process for researchers and organizations participating in DTRA initiatives.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) issued Amendment 02 to its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) identified as HDTRA1-20-S-0002. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in accordance with CDC guidelines, the planned Research Topic Information Session on March 18, 2020, has been canceled for public health safety. Participants are encouraged to direct acquisition and process-related inquiries to a specified email, and all questions will be answered and posted as amendments to the BAA. The document also provides dedicated contact emails for seven distinct research thrust areas, including topics such as competition with revisionist powers, emerging threats, and strategic dialogues with allies and competitors. Each area has a specific email address for further inquiries, ensuring that interested parties can obtain tailored information regarding their research interests.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Amendment 12 outlines revisions to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, focusing on strategic research themes from 2027 to 2032. DTRA seeks to enhance understanding of emerging threats related to Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) risks through analytic research, strategic dialogues, and tabletop exercises (TTXs). Key thrust areas include: 1. **Research Studies** - Analyzing adversarial capabilities, integrated deterrence concepts, non-strategic nuclear use, and vulnerabilities, primarily concerning China and Russia, and emphasizing the intersection with emerging technologies. 2. **Strategic Dialogues** - Facilitating informal bilateral and multilateral discussions among experts to address mutual security challenges, especially regarding WMD-related topics and enhancing U.S. partnerships. 3. **Tabletop Exercises** - Creating experiences to strengthen the military's understanding of challenges related to WMD and CBRN scenarios, primarily in the Indo-Pacific and European theaters. The announcement specifies submission deadlines for proposals, technical requirements, and evaluation methods, emphasizing the need for actionable insights that foster collaboration and address future defense priorities effectively.

The Strategic Trends Research Initiative (STRI) Industry Day, held on November 17, 2020, outlined the Department of Defense's Defense Threat Reduction Agency's (DTRA) objectives for fiscal year 2021. Key discussions focused on the BAA (Broad Agency Announcement) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, which addresses research on various emerging threats to U.S. national security, emphasizing military competition with revisionist powers. The initiative comprises studies, dialogues, and tabletop exercises aimed at generating actionable insights and recommendations for mitigating threats, especially in relation to weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The event featured representatives from DTRA, outlining research thrusts that include exploring adversarial strategies, assessing emerging WMD threats, fostering relationships with allies and non-traditional partners, and conducting tabletop exercises to enhance strategic readiness. All projects must align with specific deliverables, such as technical reports and progress briefings, with a preferred award duration of nine months to maintain operational relevance. The submission process follows a two-phase format, and priority consideration deadlines for research proposals are stipulated. This initiative is integral for informing U.S. military operations and investments through advanced strategic insights over the next five to ten years.

This document is Amendment 13 of the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, which provides insights from the DTRA Strategic Trends Division Industry Day held on October 19, 2021. It includes briefing slides and a comprehensive Q&A section regarding white paper submissions under three thrust areas: Strategic Dialogues, Studies, and Tabletop Exercises (TTX). Key information outlines the submission email addresses for each thrust area, deadlines for white papers, and guidelines for various project focus areas. Central to submissions is the requirement that all proposed projects must address weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Organizations are permitted to submit multiple papers, and interrelated proposals are allowed if they stand alone. The document also clarifies the role of foreign organizations and government entities in the submission process, emphasizing that each proposal must demonstrate a strong relevance to DTRA's mission. Overall, this document serves as a key resource for potential applicants seeking funding for research and initiatives related to national security and WMD issues.

The document is an amendment to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA-20-S-0002, providing clarifications regarding the submission of White Papers and proposals for strategic dialogues. Key points include the lack of changes to the suggested award period due to COVID-19, the requirement for separate White Papers for unrelated thrust areas, and the distinction between White Papers and Phase 2 proposals. Guidance on funding expectations stresses that project costs should reflect the expected benefit to the agency, including necessary details within the proposals for evaluation. The document states that other federal agencies cannot apply for fee-based research work under this BAA, but military-run universities and laboratories are eligible. This amendment aims to provide clarity for potential applicants in the context of federal funding opportunities amidst ongoing public health concerns.

The Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA-20-S-0002 Amendment 03 addresses various inquiries regarding the funding opportunities and application processes for research projects. It clarifies that while white papers can be submitted anytime, the first review is set for April 4, 2020. Security clearances are not required for individuals or facilities involved in the research, and the anticipated funding level will depend on the proposed research's benefits to the Agency. The document encourages institutions to combine proposals regarding different Thrust Areas into a single integrated submission for cost-effectiveness. It also allows multiple submissions from an organization. Clarifications on the distinctions between a white paper and a full proposal are provided, emphasizing the white paper's limitation on scope. Additionally, it specifies that Principal Investigators must be U.S. personnel, though research teams can include foreign nationals from allied nations. This BAA emphasizes collaborative research efforts focused on seven identified Thrust Areas while outlining application requirements and eligibility criteria.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has issued an amendment to its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S-0002, focusing on funding for studies relevant to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) for fiscal year 2021. The agency emphasizes two main thrust areas: 1. **Competition with Revisionist Powers**: DTRA seeks unclassified studies on Russia's strategies and technological advancements that could impact U.S. military operations between 2026 and 2031. Key topics include Russia's exploitation of technology, the dynamics of international alliances, and the effectiveness of risk reduction tools. 2. **Emerging WMD-Related Threats**: Studies should assess potential threats from extremist groups in the Middle East, the proliferation of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) materials, and the implications of a nuclear-armed Iran. Other focus areas include maritime security challenges in sensitive regions and the strategic development of directed energy weapons and space capabilities. Submissions for priority funding consideration are due by May 12, 2021. Proposals and white papers can be submitted anytime, and specific email contacts are provided for each thrust area. This announcement reflects DTRA’s strategic priorities in addressing evolving global security challenges.

The document is an amendment (Amendment 05) to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA-20-S-0002, which outlines responses to queries regarding proposals for strategic dialogues with allies and partners. Key points include the following: 1. Proposals should generally focus on a 12-month performance period, with no multi-year awards anticipated. 2. Sufficient information on the Primary Investigator (PI) should be included in white papers, particularly highlighting their experience and expertise. 3. Budget submissions may include a summary of costs, but sufficient detail must be provided for evaluation. 4. Deliverables must meet specific criteria outlined in the BAA, though additional appropriate deliverables are welcome. 5. Publications of outcomes post-project completion are permissible, but intentions should be communicated at the project kickoff. 6. Funding decisions are made within 30 days following final proposals, with a closing deadline of April 2 for the first review of white papers. 7. An authorized institutional officer's signature is mandatory for submissions, adhering to institutional policies. This document reflects the formal communication process for inquiries related to submitting white papers, addressing the operational parameters, funding guidelines, and deliverable expectations for prospective researchers engaged with the DTRA.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) announced an amendment to its Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HDTRA1-20-S0-002, inviting interested parties to a Research Topic Information Session (RTIS) on March 18, 2020. Registration is required by March 10, 2020, and participants must provide photo IDs, business cards, and invitations upon arrival. The RTIS will outline the DTRA's seven Thrust Areas for FY 2020, covering topics such as competition with revisionist powers, emerging threats, counter threat networks, and strategic security. A proposed agenda lists the schedule of presentations and discussions with time allocation for each thrust area, allowing for Q&A sessions. White paper applications will be reviewed starting April 2, 2020, and participants are encouraged to monitor Beta.SAM.gov and Grants.gov for potential updates and amendments. This session serves as a platform for academic and industry practitioners to engage with DTRA's research focuses and submission procedures, reinforcing the agency's commitment to addressing key national security issues through collaborative research initiatives.