Albatross
ID: DARPA-PS-24-13Type: 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/bd0f1ea23d2d46a38d349b0cd4a442c1/view
Timeline
    Description

    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 harvest energy from environmental conditions, thereby reducing onboard power demands and extending flight capabilities. This initiative is critical for advancing defense technologies and has potential commercial applications, with participants required to demonstrate their systems through real-world flight testing over a two-year period. Key deadlines include an industry day on October 2, 2024, and abstract submissions due by November 15, 2024. Interested parties can contact the Solicitation Coordinator at DARPA-PS-24-13@darpa.mil for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Solicitation Coordinator
    DARPA-PS-24-13@darpa.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    DARPA-PS-24-13.pdf
    The Albatross program solicitation issued by DARPA's Strategic Technology Office seeks innovative solutions for enhancing the range and endurance of small uncrewed aerial systems (s-UAS) through autonomous soaring capabilities. Specifically, it invites proposals addressing the integration of planning tools, control systems, and advanced sensors for energy harvesting from environmental conditions. Key dates include an industry day on October 2, 2024, and abstract submissions due by November 15, 2024, with potential awards structured as Other Transactions for Prototypes. The program is centered on real-world flight testing and a series of evaluation events aimed at validating the effectiveness of proposed technological advancements. Participants will be required to demonstrate their systems through multiple test cycles over a two-year period, aiming to achieve specific metrics related to energy use reduction and mission completion. Collaborations are encouraged, fostering a comprehensive approach to the diverse technical challenges. Overall, the solicitation emphasizes the need for submissions that leverage historical weather data, onboard sensing, and real-time control strategies to optimize soaring conditions, ultimately enhancing operational capabilities while maintaining safety and adhering to regulatory requirements. This initiative underscores DARPA's commitment to advancing defense technologies through innovative research and development efforts.
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    Albatross
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    Solicitation
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