Low-Cost Long-Range Airdrop Delivery
ID: AF241-D019Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Low-Cost Long-Range Airdrop Delivery

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Nov 29, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Jan 3, 2024 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Feb 21, 2024 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for a research topic titled "Low-Cost Long-Range Airdrop Delivery" as part of the SBIR 24.1 BAA. The objective of this topic is to develop and demonstrate an expendable system capable of airdropping and delivering a 20 lbs. payload, 200 nautical miles from the drop, at a low cost. The system should be capable of being airdropped from both the C-130 and CV-22 aircraft and meet relevant safe separation standards. The system should also have the ability to set or change coordinates prior to deployment and not require anti-jam capabilities. The goal is to reduce unit cost to $10k for 100 units, allowing for proliferation in mission sets where current capabilities are too expensive. The system should be compatible with existing cargo support equipment and have the ability to exfil away from the drop zone or support rapid destruction and disposal on the ground. Phase I proposals will not be evaluated, and Phase II requires the development and demonstration of the system, including performance testing and cost projections. The system has potential applications in military operations, search and rescue, and disaster support. The solicitation is closed, and more information can be found on the DOD SBIR website.

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