The document details a Q&A session regarding proposals for a Low-Cost Chip-Scale Atomic Clock, clarifying that only full solutions are accepted and that the submission date for white papers has been extended to May 29, 2020. It confirms the initiative seeks proposals from for-profit firms primarily, though non-profits may participate as sub-recipients. Additionally, it specifies that references are included in the 10-page limit for white papers, while the cover page and biographical sketches do not count against this limit.

The United States Army Research Laboratory is seeking proposals for the development of a low-cost, battery-powered chip-scale atomic clock (CSAC) that meets specific size, weight, power, and performance metrics with a target selling price of under $300 per unit in high volume. The funding opportunity will be carried out in three phases over four years, focusing on architectural design, prototype production, and final deliverables that enhance resilience against GPS outages in contested environments. Proposals must include significant cost-sharing and will be evaluated based on technical merit, mission relevance, schedule realism, and the ability to transition technology to operational use.

The Low-Cost Chip-Scale Atomic Clock (LC CSAC) funding opportunity aims to support the development of a battery-powered atomic clock that matches or surpasses the size, weight, and performance of existing chip-scale atomic clocks at a target price of under $300 per unit for high-volume production. Proposals are sought from for-profit firms or consortiums, with a focus on achieving precise timing solutions for critical Army applications in contested environments, while emphasizing cost-sharing arrangements and substantial project commitment. The initiative comprises three phases over three years, focusing on design, prototype development, and final production, with evaluation criteria emphasizing scientific merit, potential military contribution, schedule realism, and cost realism.

The Low-Cost Chip-Scale Atomic Clock (LC CSAC) funding opportunity seeks proposals from for-profit companies to develop a battery-powered atomic clock that matches or surpasses the size, weight, power, and performance of commercially available chip-scale atomic clocks at a target price of under $300 per unit for high volume. This initiative is vital for military applications such as navigation and communications, especially in environments where GPS signals may be compromised. The program unfolds over three phases: an initial design and key component development phase, followed by production and testing of prototypes, and culminating in the achievement of specified performance metrics. Proposals must demonstrate the ability to share project costs, with a preference for higher contributions showcasing commitment to project success. Key objectives include achieving production costs as low as $200 per unit, a capacity above 1 million clocks per year, and improved performance metrics related to size, power consumption, and stability. Proposals will be evaluated based on scientific merit, contribution to military missions, schedule feasibility, transition capability, cost realism, experience, and cost-sharing commitment. Interested parties are required to submit whitepapers electronically by specified deadlines to be considered for full proposal invitations, following a structured submission process for potentially high-impact defense technology development.