The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "DIRECT TO PHASE II: F2-Wideband Acoustic Receiver and Source (F2-WARS) Sonobuoy" as part of the SBIR program. The objective is to develop and demonstrate an updated air-deployable source and receiver combination that can characterize the acoustic ocean environment in the F2 Mid-Frequency range. The system will be deployed from Navy Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft and will have the capability to consistently attain key Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) measurements. The technology should include enhanced signal processing techniques for both active and passive processing and should be capable of shallow and deep-water operations. The system should be low power and sized to fit within an A-size sonobuoy. The proposal should demonstrate prior successful development, testing, or deployment in a relevant domain and provide evidence of advanced signal processing techniques. Feasibility documentation and potential commercialization applications should also be included. In Phase II, an over-the-side prototype unit will be developed and fabricated to span the F2 Mid-Frequency range and demonstrate its performance in both acoustic facilities and the ocean environment. The prototype should meet classified objectives and demonstrate desirable ASW measurement capabilities. In Phase III, the prototype unit will be transitioned into an air deployable sonobuoy system, meeting A-size packaging requirements. Testing and certification will be required for successful transition to the platform. This technology can benefit any entity that requires calibrated active target strength measurements within the underwater environment. The solicitation is open until June 12, 2024. More information can be found on the grants.gov website.