Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering and Research (PACER)

Amendment 2 to Broad Agency Announcement FA2391-23-S-2403,

Amendment 3 to the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA2391-23-S-2403,

Amendment 4 to Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA2391-23-S-2403,

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RQ Aerospace Systems Directorate) has issued Amendment 1 to Broad Agency Announcement FA2391-23-S-2403, titled “Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering, and Research (PACER),” specifically for the CALL Name “Collaborative Center for the Design and Research Of InterDisciplinary Systems (CC DROIDS).” This amendment clarifies that AFRL is seeking to establish a partnership with an American university to lead the CC DROIDS center. Universities are permitted to partner with industry, with the industry partner acting as a sub-recipient in a Cooperative Agreement. Contact information for Grants Specialists Chris DeLaet and Susan Lee is provided for inquiries.

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RQ) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA2391-23-S-2403, specifically a 1-Step Call named "Collaborative Center for the Design and Research Of InterDisciplinary Systems (CC DROIDS)." This call seeks proposals for research and development in Multidisciplinary Design, Analysis, and Optimization (MDAO) methods and technologies to advance next-generation aerospace vehicles. The estimated program cost is $4,800,000, with one Cooperative Agreement anticipated. Proposals are due by September 11, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. local time, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, and should be submitted electronically to Chris DeLaet. While cost-sharing is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged. The period of performance is 72 months, with an anticipated award date of November 23, 2023. This unrestricted call encourages small businesses to propose, focusing on delivering technical data with appropriate data rights, preferably unlimited or Government Purpose Rights. Deliverables include various performance and financial reports, as well as software.

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/RQ) is partnering with an American university to establish the Collaborative Center for the Design and Research Of InterDisciplinary Systems (CC DROIDS). This center will lead research and development in novel design methods and tools for optimizing revolutionary aerospace vehicles, complementing AFRL's efforts. The collaboration focuses on multidisciplinary sciences and technology, specifically in Design Space Exploration, Multifidelity Modeling and Analysis for Design Optimization, and Multidisciplinary Technology Development, Assessment, and Validation. Key objectives include fostering research collaboration, mentoring students, and developing engineering software, emphasizing robust design methods, effectiveness-based design, digital engineering, and design under uncertainty. The partnership also outlines requirements for personnel quality, intense collaboration, software utilization, and deliverables, including performance and financial reports, and project results.

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA2391-23-S-2403, titled "Pioneering Aerospace Capabilities, Engineering, and Research (PACER)," focusing on the establishment of the Collaborative Center for the Design and Research Of InterDisciplinary Systems (CC DROIDS). This announcement has been amended to clarify the application process for potential partners, specifically universities. AFRL seeks a partnership with an American university and allows collaboration with industry partners, designating industry as sub-recipients in Cooperative Agreements, akin to subcontractors in typical federal acquisitions. The primary aim is to foster innovation and interdisciplinary research in aerospace systems through this collaborative center, providing an opportunity for educational institutions to engage with industry to enhance capabilities in aerospace engineering.

The Aerospace Systems Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is establishing a Collaborative Center for the Design and Research Of InterDisciplinary Systems (CC DROIDS) in partnership with an American university. The initiative aims to advance aerospace vehicle research and development through collective expertise, enhancing AFRL's capabilities while providing mentorship opportunities for students. CC DROIDS will focus on multiple technology areas including design space exploration, multifidelity modeling for design optimization, and multidisciplinary technology development. Key objectives involve developing innovative design methods and software tools for various aerospace vehicle configurations, from UAVs to transport platforms, addressing operational effectiveness and risk assessment. The collaboration emphasizes high-quality personnel for impactful research activities, aiming to establish a synergistic relationship between academia and AFRL. Regular interactions, including annual reviews and technical meetings, are planned for effective knowledge exchange. The initiative also stresses the importance of software development and operational security, ensuring that both research outcomes and sensitive information remain protected. Overall, the CC DROIDS initiative is positioned as a crucial step toward enhancing the Air Force's aerospace capabilities while fostering educational opportunities for students in cutting-edge research environments.