Small Unmanned Ground Robotic Systems
ID: SOCOM244-001Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Small Unmanned Ground Robotic Systems

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a cyber-hardened small unmanned ground robotic system. The system should be capable of being operated using both a vendor-developed .apk TAK GOV software controller and a Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20 universal controller. It should integrate the best C2/data link components and be operable with Silvus Technologies and Persistent Systems radios. The system should be designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) purposes and be able to operate in all-weather conditions within rural and urban environments. The system should have a minimum battery life of 60-90 minutes and a ground control station line-of-sight range capability of 100 meters. The integrated sensors should be able to identify moving armed personnel at specified distances. The system should also have cyber survivability attributes and be capable of carrying various payloads.

    The Phase I of the project involves conducting a feasibility study to assess the options that satisfy the requirements. The Phase II includes developing, installing, and demonstrating a prototype system. The system has potential applications in a broad range of military operations, enhancing operational situational awareness, reducing cognitive and physical workload, and reducing risk to the user. The project is open for proposals until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Small Unmanned Ground Robotic Systems
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a cyber-hardened small unmanned ground robotic system. The system should be capable of being operated using both a vendor-developed .apk TAK GOV software controller and a Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20 universal controller. It should integrate the best C2/data link components and be operable with Silvus Technologies and Persistent Systems radios. The system should be designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) purposes and be able to operate in all-weather conditions within rural and urban environments. The system should have a minimum operating time of 60 minutes for smaller systems and 90 minutes for larger systems, with a ground control station line-of-sight range capability of 100 meters. The integrated sensors should be able to identify moving armed personnel at specified distances. The system should also have cyber survivability attributes and be capable of carrying various payloads. The feasibility study for Phase I should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters. Phase II involves developing and demonstrating a prototype system, and Phase III focuses on dual-use applications in military settings. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Handheld Kinetic Defeat of UAS
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a handheld defeat capability to counter Unmanned/Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) in their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective is to develop low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) solutions that can kinetically defeat Group 1-3 UAS with a high probability of kill (Pk). The solicitation prioritizes characteristics such as Pk, SWaP-C, reliability, ease of use, versatility, and defeat range. The Phase I of the project involves conducting a feasibility study to assess the possibilities that satisfy the specified requirements. The Phase II focuses on developing, installing, and demonstrating a prototype system for a handheld UAS defeat solution. The technology developed through this program could have broad applications in various military scenarios where defense against UAS is required. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025, and more details can be found on the DOD SBIR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Handheld Kinetic Defeat of UAS
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a handheld defeat capability to counter Unmanned/Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) in their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective is to create low size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) solutions that can kinetically defeat Group 1-3 UAS with a focus on reliability and a high probability of kill (Pk). The solicitation emphasizes the importance of defeat range, ease of use, versatility, and the ability to defeat multiple group sizes and types of UAS. The Phase I of the project requires a feasibility study to assess potential methodologies and technologies that meet the specified requirements. The study should address risks and potential payoffs and recommend the most feasible option. Phase II involves the development, installation, and demonstration of a prototype system based on the findings of the feasibility study. The resulting handheld UAS defeat system could have broad applications in various military scenarios where defense against UAS is required. The solicitation provides references to relevant research and emphasizes keywords such as counter unmanned aerial system, defeat, kinetic, and handheld. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation page on the Defense SBIR/STTR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - xTechSpecial Forces
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The specific topic of the solicitation is "xTechSpecial Forces" and it is being conducted by the Army branch. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. The first topic of the solicitation is "GPS Denied ATAK Compatible Self Location Application." The US Army 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) is looking for a software solution that can obtain self-location data in GPS-denied situations and integrate it into the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK) software platform. The software should enable self-location without the use of GPS, other networks, or additional hardware. The goal is to allow ground operators to take a picture of the sky to obtain images including celestial objects and/or passing satellites, resulting in operationally suitable self-location. The second topic is "SWARM Tracker – Counter UxS Warning System." The Army Special Operations Command is seeking an automated tool that can provide early warning of swarmed sensors and effects similar to the National Weather System's severe weather warning systems. The tool should integrate with existing and emerging systems, provide multi-modal awareness, and deliver timely notifications to tactical units and base defense operating centers. The focus is on reducing cognitive load and building user-centric notification systems. The third topic is "PSYOP Product Air Delivery Vehicle." The Army Special Operations Command requires a self-guided aerial delivery system for disseminating Psychological Operations products. The Air Delivery Vehicle (ADV) should be interchangeable depending on payload and mission requirements, resistant to electronic attack, and capable of accommodating payloads ranging from 8 ounces to 50 pounds. The ADV should have self-navigation capabilities, accurate release points, and the ability to operate in day and night conditions. The fourth topic is "Non-Attributable Mobile Mesh Network Radio." The 1st Special Forces Command is interested in a small form factor, non-attributable mesh network radio system for position location information (PLI), voice, sensor integration, and data transmission. The system should enable continuous communication outside of cellular/internet coverage, have a low physical and RF signature, and integrate with the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK). The fifth topic is "Distributed Electromagnetic Sensing, Automated Characterization, and Simple Reporting systems." The 1st Special Forces Command is interested in technological solutions to enhance Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities. The focus is on scalable, cost-effective, software-based innovations that address core need areas such as AI/ML-enabled edge processing, automated signal detection and characterization, near-real-time data availability, and integration with tactical situational awareness systems. The Phase I proposals for this solicitation can receive funding up to $250,000 for a 6-month period, while Direct to Phase II proposals can receive funding up to $2,000,000 for an 18-month period. Phase I involves completing a feasibility study and developing concept plans, while Phase II focuses on producing prototype solutions. Phase III involves maturing the technology to TRL 6/7, producing prototypes for further evaluation, and updating prototypes based on soldier feedback. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the solicitation agency's website: [link](https://www
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Medical Payloads for Army Robotic Platforms
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of medical payloads for Army robotic platforms. The objective is to create a modular medical mission payload that can carry heavy, climate-controlled containers to resupply blood and perform casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) with attachability to ground and air robotic/autonomous platforms. Currently, blood delivery, medical resupply, and CASEVAC are conducted by convoys of crewed vehicles, which can be limited in reaching the front line. The goal is to develop a medical multi-mission, modular payload that can be employed by robotic ground and air platforms. The payloads should comply with Safe Ride Standards for casualty evacuation using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Ground (RAS-G), and modular payload design standards (Mod Payload). They should also be climate-controlled, collapsible, and capable of maintaining blood temperature between one and 10 degrees centigrade. The proposal should consider cost, and only Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals will be accepted. The project duration includes Phase I, where a preliminary design of the payload should be formulated, Phase II, where the design is refined and a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5-6 system is created, and Phase III, which focuses on commercialization objectives. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the SBIR topic link or the solicitation agency URL.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Dual Band Focal Plane Array in High Definition Format
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a small energy-efficient self-contained transceiver capable of wireless communication without using traditional radio frequency (RF) transport. The goal is to utilize a non-standard means of signal communication, such as magnetic, acoustic, or infrared, that is difficult to detect and report in covert activities. The transceiver should be highly resistant to interference, detection, and exploitation, and be self-contained, man-portable, easily concealable, and field programmable. The project duration is divided into two phases: Phase I involves creating a design and rationale supporting the solution, while Phase II focuses on developing and testing a prototype. The final product should be fully documented and include operating instructions, interface control documents, and programmability commands. The potential impacts of this technology include new mission deployment possibilities for remote sensor operation and control, as well as applications in areas such as home security, healthcare, additive manufacturing, and automotive safety. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation agency's website here.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Medical Payloads for Army Robotic Platforms
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of medical payloads for Army robotic platforms. The objective is to create a modular medical mission payload that can carry heavy, climate-controlled containers to resupply blood and perform casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) with attachability to ground and air robotic/autonomous platforms. Currently, blood delivery, medical resupply, and CASEVAC are conducted by crewed vehicles, which can be challenging in reaching the front line. The goal is to develop a medical multi-mission, modular payload that can be employed by robotic ground and air platforms. The payloads should comply with Safe Ride Standards for casualty evacuation using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Ground (RAS-G), and modular payload design standards (Mod Payload). They should also be climate-controlled, collapsible, and capable of maintaining blood temperature between one and 10 degrees centigrade. The proposal should consider cost, and only Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals will be accepted. The Phase II deliverables include refining the preliminary design, creating a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5-6 modular medical mission payload, and demonstrating the payload's performance at a vendor-provided, government-approved location. Phase III involves pursuing commercialization objectives, developing a manufacturing-ready product design, and engaging in laboratory or operational testing. The keywords for this solicitation are UAS, UAV, Medical Payloads, Resupply, CASEVAC, and UGV. For more information, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Deep Terrain Shaping
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Deep Terrain Shaping" as part of its SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The Army branch is specifically interested in solutions or components of solutions that can delay, deter, and deny enemy forces freedom of movement 70-150km+ beyond the forward line of troops (FLOT). The current systems used by the Army for terrain shaping operations are aging and resource-intensive, and there are restrictions on their use outside of the Korean peninsula. The Army is looking for deep terrain shaping obstacles (DTSO) that can impede enemy movement and operations. This can include uncrewed systems capable of forming obstacles, positioning explosive loitering munitions, or activating when a threat is identified. The integration of remote sensing and lethal effectors at machine speed with human-in-the-loop is also of interest. The solutions should allow Soldiers to conduct terrain-shaping operations 70km+ beyond the FLOT and should be scalable for different desired effects on enemy maneuver. The solicitation is currently open, with a close date of March 31, 2025. The project will be conducted in two phases. Phase I involves designing a proof-of-concept solution or component(s) of a solution for terrain shaping in the deep fight. Phase II focuses on developing, building, and demonstrating a prototype of the concept advanced during Phase I. Awardees may also be eligible for a Phase IIb award to extend the period of performance with additional funding. Phase III aims to pursue commercialization objectives and may involve developing a manufacturing-ready product design and engaging in laboratory or operational testing. The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), and offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals. The full solicitation can be found at the following link: SBIR Topic Link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Dual Band Focal Plane Array in High Definition Format
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a small energy-efficient self-contained transceiver capable of wireless communication without using traditional radio frequency (RF) transport. The goal is to utilize a non-standard means of signal communication, such as magnetic, acoustic, or infrared, that is difficult to detect and report in covert activities. The transceiver should be highly resistant to interference, detection, and exploitation, and be self-contained, man-portable, easily concealable, and field programmable. The project duration is divided into two phases: Phase I involves creating a plausible design and rationale supporting the solution, while Phase II focuses on developing and testing a prototype that demonstrates the desired capabilities. The project aligns with the Army's smart sensing initiatives and aims to provide an innovative alternate means of low probability of detection (LPD) and low probability of interception (LPI) communications. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Low Cost Persistent Multi Sensor Surveillance
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Low Cost Persistent Multi Sensor Surveillance" as part of their SBIR program. The objective of this topic is to develop environmentally hardened sensor nodes that can persistently monitor Radio Frequency (RF), weather conditions, and/or personnel access of remote islands leased on the Kwajalein Atoll for the U.S. Army's Reagan Test Site (RTS). The solutions should be independent of external power sources or communications networks, as there are no cellular or Wi-Fi communications, nor power source, in these areas. The solutions must also be capable of operating in harsh environmental conditions, including heat, humidity, regular rainfall, salt spray, and high atmospheric salinity. The data collected by these sensor nodes will be used for situational awareness, safety, security, and mission planning and support. The solicitation is open for both full or partial solutions, and Phase I proposals with a cost of up to $250,000 for a 6-month period of performance are being accepted. Phase I will involve researching and developing the system/network architecture, designing the hardware components, and proposing power source designs and networking techniques. By the end of Phase I, the awardee should have detailed descriptions of the proposed technologies. In Phase II, the awardee will produce a single prototype that demonstrates the capabilities and methodologies at a minimum of TRL4. They will also develop a user interface and display for situational awareness of sensor control and monitoring. The potential applications of this technology include wireless remote sensing for public safety, health, fitness, and wildlife dual-usages. Some examples of dual uses of remote sensing include anti-poaching efforts, remote environmental sensors enabled by low-Earth orbit satellites, wildfire early recognition sensor systems, agriculture and crop performance monitoring, and urban pollution source detection. For more information and to submit proposals, interested parties can visit the DOD SBIR program website. The solicitation is currently open, and the application due date is March 31, 2025. References: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0927775722021823 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877050914009831 http://www.ijpe-online.com/EN/10.23940/ijpe.09.5.p419.mag Keywords: sensors, nodes, Radio Frequency (RF), Reagan Test Site (RTS)