Turbulent Boundary Layer Drag Reduction via Surface Actuators
ID: HR0011SB20254-09Type: Phase II
Overview

Topic

Turbulent Boundary Layer Drag Reduction via Surface Actuators

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: DARPA

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: Phase II
Timeline
    Description

    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on "Turbulent Boundary Layer Drag Reduction via Surface Actuators." The objective is to develop and flight test innovative solutions that actively modify turbulent flows to reduce drag on aerospace vehicles, thereby enhancing their performance in terms of range, endurance, speed, and payload. This initiative is particularly significant as even minor reductions in drag can lead to substantial improvements in operational capabilities, with potential applications in both military and commercial aviation. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is currently in the pre-release phase, with proposals due by June 25, 2025, and further details available at the official SBIR website.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Similar Opportunities
    Affordable Thermal Protection Solution (ARMREST) -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking innovative solutions for affordable Thermal Protection Solutions (TPS) aimed at enhancing Rocket Cargo materiel transport missions, particularly for payloads in the 1 to 10 metric ton range. The objective is to develop low-cost, expendable external TPS or internal thermal management systems that ensure payload survivability during atmospheric reentry, avoiding the complexities and high costs associated with human-rated systems. This initiative is crucial for reshaping the industrial base towards cost-effective thermal protection technologies, facilitating rapid and efficient transport of materials for military and commercial applications. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the DOD SBIR website, with the solicitation set to open on July 23, 2025, and applications due by August 20, 2025.
    Phase I Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking innovative defense-related dual-purpose technologies and solutions through its Phase I SBIR program, in collaboration with AFWERX. The objective is to identify and develop technologies that can fulfill Air Force stakeholder needs, close capability gaps, and enhance technological advancements, with a focus on commercial solutions that can be adapted for defense applications. This opportunity emphasizes the importance of aligning proposed solutions with the OUSD(R&E) Critical Technology Areas and aims to foster a robust industrial base for defense while ensuring that solutions are scalable and sustainable for both defense and non-defense markets. Proposals are due by August 5, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link: https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12160.
    Mechanics and Control of Autonomous Legged Robotic Systems in Mud -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on the mechanics and control of autonomous legged robotic systems capable of navigating muddy environments. The objective is to develop a quadrupedal robot with a novel control architecture that can traverse deep mud with up to 20% leg intrusion at an average speed of 8 body lengths per minute, surpassing current capabilities. This initiative is critical for enhancing autonomous locomotion in challenging terrains, which has significant implications for military applications and potential dual-use scenarios such as disaster relief and search and rescue operations. Interested parties can submit proposals for Phase I, with funding up to $250,000 for a 6-month period, and must adhere to the application deadline of July 23, 2025. For more information, visit the official solicitation page at DOD SBIR/STTR.
    Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army, is seeking proposals for the development of an underwater sensing system optimized for surf zone environments as part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to create a portable underwater sensor capable of detecting bathymetry and underwater hazards in shallow, bubbly conditions, which are critical for safe maritime operations and logistics support in contested regions. This technology is particularly important for enhancing situational awareness during over-the-shore operations, where traditional sensing methods are hindered by environmental factors such as surf zone bubbles. Proposals for Phase I are invited with a funding limit of $250,000 for a six-month performance period, with a submission deadline of August 20, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    Droppable Chemical Warfare Agent Sensor -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking proposals for the development of a lightweight, droppable chemical warfare agent sensor as part of its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to create an ultra-compact device capable of real-time detection, identification, and geolocation of chemical threats, which can be deployed by uncrewed systems or individual personnel in contaminated environments. This sensor will enhance operational capabilities for Special Operations Forces by providing rapid hazard awareness and integrating seamlessly with existing systems like ATAK for real-time data visualization. The solicitation is set to open on June 25, 2025, with proposals due by July 23, 2025, and further details can be found at the DOD SBIR website.
    Integration of Wave Relay API Features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative software solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to integrate Wave Relay API features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software. The primary objective is to enhance local positioning capabilities for uncrewed and worn sensors during tactical operations by leveraging RF signal information, ensuring accuracy within 1 meter in a 300-meter by 300-meter area without GPS reliance, particularly in low-light conditions. This technology is crucial for improving the reliability of positioning solutions in GPS-denied environments, especially for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) sensor operations. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on June 25, 2025, with applications due by July 23, 2025, and can find more information at the DOD SBIR website.
    Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on developing an underwater sensing system for surf zone environments. The objective is to create a portable sensor capable of detecting bathymetry and underwater hazards in shallow, bubbly conditions, which is critical for safe maritime operations and logistics support in contested regions. This technology is particularly important for enhancing situational awareness during over-the-shore operations, where traditional sensing methods are hindered by environmental factors such as surf zone bubbles. Proposals for Phase I are due by August 20, 2025, with a funding amount of up to $250,000 for a six-month performance period. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    Mechanics and Control of Autonomous Legged Robotic Systems in Mud -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on the mechanics and control of autonomous legged robotic systems capable of navigating muddy environments. The objective is to develop a quadrupedal robot with a novel control architecture that can traverse deep mud with up to 20% leg intrusion at an average speed of 8 body lengths per minute, surpassing current capabilities. This initiative is critical for enhancing off-road autonomous locomotion, which is vital for future Army operations in challenging terrains. Interested applicants can submit Phase I proposals for up to $250,000, with a performance period of six months, and must adhere to the application deadline of July 23, 2025. For more information, visit the official solicitation page at DOD SBIR/STTR.
    Phase I Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking innovative defense-related dual-purpose technologies and solutions through its Phase I SBIR program, in collaboration with AFWERX. The objective is to identify and develop technologies that can fulfill Air Force requirements, close capability gaps, and provide advancements applicable to both defense and non-defense markets. This opportunity emphasizes the need for solutions that are closely tied to commercial technologies, with a focus on applied research and development rather than basic research. Proposals are due by August 5, 2025, and interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the provided links.
    Affordable Release Mechanism (ARM) -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions for the development of an Affordable Release Mechanism (ARM) aimed at enhancing Rocket Cargo materiel transport missions. The primary objective is to create a low-cost, expendable release mechanism that is compatible with various cargo container providers, facilitating rapid payload integration and turnaround for military operations. This initiative is crucial for improving the agility and efficiency of materiel transport, particularly as the U.S. Space Force explores advanced mobility options through suborbital or orbital reentry. Interested parties should note that the opportunity is currently in the pre-release phase, with the solicitation expected to open on July 23, 2025, and applications due by August 20, 2025. For more information, please visit the official source link at https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/topics-app/.