2026 DoD SBIR Topics Cancelled & Reposted: 58 Topics Across U.S. Army, DARPA, Defense Health Agency, DLA, MDA, Office of the Secretary of Defense, SOCOM, U.S. Air Force

AI Summary

This RFP seeks scalable manufacturing processes for low-cost, tube-launched unmanned aircraft airframes capable of mass production at 10,000 units monthly. Proposals must demonstrate agile, modular manufacturing approaches using cost-effective materials that enable rapid design adaptation while maintaining structural performance for demanding operations.

Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) are expected to play an increasingly significant role on the future battlefield. Launched Effects (LEs) are UAS launched from a tube either from air or ground platforms and can perform a variety of missions. The attritable or optionally recoverable nature and desire for “swarming” of LEs means the Army will need large numbers of them produced at high rates and for low cost, and a rapidly changing battlefield will require an agile manufacturing process. Current airframe manufacturing approaches that use high-performance carbon fiber composite material are challenged by high material costs, long lead times on tooling, labor-intensive fabrication techniques, scaling challenges. This topic seeks to develop and demonstrate mass-manufacturing approaches for LE airframes that retain high structural efficiency and sufficient capability to operate in demanding environments. The total cost of the assembled airframe (which includes skins, stiffening elements, frames, control surfaces, bulkheads, clips, brackets, and other structural features but does not other non-structural systems) is desired to be $2,000, and the desired maximum production rate is 10,000 vehicles per month. Additionally, the manufacturing process should be modular and adaptable such that it is able to adjust to a minor design change rapidly in a matter of hours or days. Proposals should provide an overview of the entire manufacturing approach with enough detail to substantiate that the proposer has considered all pertinent aspects of the design, such as critical interfaces, space, weight and power allocations, assembly constraints, and manufacturing limitations. Considerations are expected to include balancing fabrication of components with assembly into a full airframe and may include automated techniques. LE designs should be structurally representative, and the effort should present a baseline vehicle performance to be compared to the final design performance. PHASE I: The outcome of Phase 1 is expected to be a representative LE design and feasibility study that details how the proposed manufacturing approach achieves the desired rate, cost target, and design modularity and ability to adapt to design changes. The manufacturing approach should include fabrication and assembly processes that are already matured or sufficiently mature such that negligible development is needed during Phase 2; fabrication and assembly processes requiring significant development before they could be implemented are not desired. Documentation from prior efforts that supports the analyses used in the feasibility study is encouraged. Small-scale feasibility demonstrations may also be conducted.

Objective

The objective of this topic is to demonstrate mass production of launched effect airframes at high rates (objective: 10,000 / month) and low cost (objective: $2,000) while also quickly accommodating design changes.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks a multifrequency antenna solution for precision-guided munitions (PGMs) that operates across UHF to X-band frequencies. The antenna must withstand gun-hardened conditions while providing frequency diversity to counter electronic warfare jamming and ensure reliable positioning and navigation in contested environments.

The modern battlefield includes Electronic Warfare (EW) targeting a variety of RF signals, making single-frequency systems vulnerable to brute-force jamming. PGMs require frequency diversity in small, gun hardened, PGM Form Factor (FF) patch antennas to support a variety of M-GNSS and SoOp PNT signals and ensure successful operations in a contested EW environment. To maximize the capabilities of PNT systems, the Multi-frequency antenna should be tunable (or configurable) such that desired frequency bands can be determined at the time of mission execution. As an objective requirement, support continuous frequencies from UHF to X-band.

Objective

Develop a multiple Radio Frequency (RF), aka “Multifrequency,” configurable patch antenna that can be utilized in cannon and missile-based Precision Guided Munitions (PGM) to support Multi Global Navigation Satellite Systems (M-GNSS) Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) signals and PNT Signals …

AI Summary

This RFP seeks blockchain-based logistics tracking technology to provide military commanders real-time visibility into in-transit assets across disparate systems. The solution must integrate distributed ledger, sensor fusion, and predictive analytics to overcome current data silos and manual reporting limitations.

Military logistics systems offer significant potential for improvement, yet their ability to fully address the complexities of modern operations is limited by disparate data sources, manual reporting processes, and a lack of real-time visibility into the movement of assets. To overcome these challenges, novel approaches that integrate decentralized distributed ledger, sensor fusion, automated data collection, and user-friendly visualization tools within the Command Post Computing Environment (CPCE) are needed to enable a robust and adaptive ITV capability.   This topic focuses on advancing near real-time logistics tracking and management, with a specific emphasis on providing commanders with a comprehensive common operating picture (COP) of the location, status, and contents of all in-transit assets (Classes of Supply I-X). Proposed solutions should prioritize interoperability, modularity, and scalability, ensuring that the ITV system can be integrated across various existing military platforms (AFRL's distributed ledger technology infrastructure, CPCE, mobile handheld devices, mounted systems) and enterprise databases (TCAIMS-II, IBS, GATES, CMOS) with minimal customization. Research should explore predictive modeling algorithms, user-defined alert systems, and secure data sharing protocols to ensure reliability, resilience, and security under dynamic operational conditions.   The performance metrics outlined below are intended as target thresholds, not hard requirements, and are meant to illustrate the desired technical capabilities. Proposals that meet some, but not all, of the listed metrics or that propose alternative approaches will be evaluated equally and are strongly encouraged. The goal is to cast a wide net and support a range of innovative technologies aligned with the problem space. Quantifiable Performance Requirements:  Proposals should address the following measurable technical performance metrics: Location Accuracy: The system should achieve 95% accuracy in reporting the location of tracked assets under various operational environments. Update Frequency: The system should provide location updates at a minimum of every 15 minutes for ground transport and every 15 minutes for air transport. System Latency: End-to-end latency from data acquisition to display on the COP should not exceed 3 minutes. Platform Compatibility: The solution should operate effectively across CPCE, mobile handheld, and mounted computing environments, requiring no more than 10% system redesign or configuration for each platform. Deployment Time: Deployment/setup time for deploying a single tracker should not exceed 1 hour, and user training should require no more than 2 hours. Physical tags: Should be multi-modal, to include the ability to leverage satellite, cell towers, and internet. The tags should also be able to transmit encrypted data to AFRL's existing distributed ledger technology infrastructure. Distributed Ledger Technology: Should be able to tokenize assets, creating a digital twin and be able to connect with AFRL's existing distributed ledger technology and be able to create a unique chain that interoperates with AFRL's existing one. Proposal Expectations:  Successful proposals should include hypothesis-driven research that combines fundamental modeling with prototype development or proof-of-concept demonstration. Teams must outline an experimental validation plan, including testing in simulated operational scenarios with representative data sets and user interactions , with clearly defined success criteria for each milestone. Cross-disciplinary approaches, integrating software engineering, data analytics, human-computer interaction, and military logistics expertise, are strongly encouraged.

Objective

This topic seeks to develop and optimize a real-time In-Transit Visibility (ITV) system that enables military commanders and logistical staff from Corps to Battalion level to overcome limitations in tracking and managing the movement of supplies and personnel through the integration of data from var…

AI Summary

The Army seeks modular UAS payloads using the Picatinny CLIK standard to enable cross-manufacturer compatibility and rapid capability upgrades. Selected vendors will develop and field-test interchangeable payloads—including sensors, communications, and electronic warfare systems—with brigade-level units to maximize battlefield flexibility.

Current UAS and payloads are often proprietary and designed to be mission-specific. Some systems offer swappable payloads; however, these payloads aren’t interchangeable across UAS manufacturers, and additional capabilities depend on the same manufacturer developing new payloads. To maximize battlefield usability, the Army needs the ability to swap payloads using common connections.   This solicitation supports a directed requirement for brigade-level UAS by developing payload technologies that will inform future UAS requirements and unit-level tactics, techniques, and procedures. The intent is to explore, test, refine, and advance modular payload technologies as an industry-government team, experimenting iteratively through Soldier touchpoints.   The selected vendor will deliver a modular payload and integrate the payload with one or more government-provided UAS platforms. Desired types of modular payloads include the following: Electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) laser rangefinder and designator Communications relay (voice and data) Electronic warfare (EW) Signals intelligence Cargo resupply up to 20 lb Other novel payloads that can provide Soldiers an offensive or defensive advantage In this effort, awardees are asked to adapt their payload technology for compatibility with the Picatinny Common Lethality Interface Kit (CLIK) specification developed by DEVCOM Armaments Center. The Picatinny CLIK specification defines a physical interface, electrical connection, and signals to enable the integration of lethal and nonlethal payloads with small UAS. The references section of this solicitation contains a link to the Army Applications Laboratory topic page that links to the Picatinny CLIK specification. Vendors will also have the option to collaborate with DEVCOM Armaments Center to continue to refine the Picatinny CLIK specification.   Awardees will collaborate with UAS vendors to integrate their payloads with one or more government-provided UAS and demonstrate interoperability. The UAS platform provided by the government will have capabilities of upper Group 2 or lower Group 3 UAS, with payload capacity of at least 20 lb. Once awardees have integrated their payloads using Picatinny CLIK, they will provide their payloads for unit field experimentation and further refine their payload technology. The vendor should specify in their proposal how they intend to enhance their technology throughout the period of performance using the feedback provided through the Soldier-centered iterative design process. Examples of desirable technology improvements include, but are not limited to: Reducing size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) of the payload Working toward compliance with relevant standards, airworthiness, and packaging requirements Improving user interface and autonomous behaviors Compatibility with a broader variety of UAS and controllers, including common controllers such as UVC (Uncrewed Vehicle Control) PHASE I: This topic is for Phase I submission only. The Department of the Army will accept Phase I proposals for a cost of up to $150,000 for a 3-month period of performance. In Phase I, awardees will collaborate with government stakeholders and UAS vendors to plan for the integration of their payloads using Picatinny CLIK, along with developing plans for technology improvements to their payloads. Phase I deliverables will include: Technical designs for integration of the awardee’s payload with one or more government-provided UAS and for technology improvements to the payload Initial Safety Assessment Report (SAR), technical documentation, test plans, and other information required to obtain approval for hands-on Soldier touchpoints and experimentation Participation in a virtual kickoff and in-person final presentation, along with virtual touchpoints Monthly reports that document technical progress A Phase II proposal, if desired by the vendor PHASE II: Phase II is anticipated to have a 12-month period of performance. In Phase II, awardees will deliver prototypes of their modular payloads adapted to use the Picatinny CLIK specification, and will support hands-on experimentation to make iterative improvements to their technology. Phase II deliverables will include: A quantity of at least 2 of the modular payload, to be left behind with units at the conclusion of the period of performance Integration of the modular payload with one or more government-provided UAS using the Picatinny CLIK specification Support for Soldier experimentation touchpoints at unit locations to perform Soldier-centered iterative design. Proposers should budget for a total of 5 trips with a duration of 1 week per trip to unit locations or experiment sites within the continental U.S. Proposals should include all anticipated personnel, travel costs, and support equipment Integration of experimentation results into technology improvements to the payload Monthly reports that document lessons learned from experimentation and their application to technology development Proposal for a sequential award, if desired by the vendor, to continue technology development based on lessons learned from experimentation The following timeline illustrates the concept of execution during the Phase II period of performance. Awardees should anticipate timeline changes during execution due to technology development risk, unit availability for experimentation, and scheduled experimentation events. Applicants may propose timelines that follow the general model below. Month 1-2: Adapt the payload to use the Picatinny CLIK specification based on plans developed during Phase I. Collaborate with UAS vendors to integrate the payload with government-provided UAS. Continue touchpoints with Soldiers and Army organizations. Deliver an updated Safety Assessment Report (SAR) and other documentation to support safety releases for Soldier testing. Month 3-10: Deliver quantity 2 of the modular payload adapted to use the Picatinny CLIK specification. Train Soldiers to use the modular connection and payload. Support experimentation touchpoints and use Soldier-centered iterative design to improve the payload technology. Month 11-12: Deliver the final payload prototypes to the unit. Attend a culminating training event or experiment with the unit to further experiment with and develop the payload technology. Demonstrate interoperability of the payload with government-provided UAS using the Picatinny CLIK specification. Finalize and document payload technology improvements and lessons learned.

Objective

The objectives for this effort are to enhance and refine various payload types and integrate them using a modular specification for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Experimentation, testing, and evaluation for this effort will use a Soldier-centered iterative design process.

AI Summary

This SBIR seeks development of photonic-electronic integration panels that combine optical and electrical routing for multi-chip systems, addressing the need for high-density, low-cost interconnect solutions beyond current chip-to-chip capabilities. The solution must demonstrate manufacturable 3D optical routing with integrated fiber interfaces and meet specified optical link performance metrics.

The HAPPI program is developing three-dimensional chip-to-chip and intra-chip optical routing that are compatible with standard microelectronics manufacturing processes. The program scope includes multiple routing planes within a photonic integrated circuit (PIC) or photonic interposer, connections between routing layers capable of traversing substrate thickness, and surface methods for coupling light from one photonic chip to another. This technology will enable packages that include multiple PICs with high density optical interconnects.Notably outside of the HAPPI program scope is waveguide-to-fiber coupling and larger scale chip-to-chip connectivity at the system board level. A commercial opportunity exists to create a platform similar to an electrical printed circuit board (PCB) platform that incorporates 3-dimensional optical routing planes, co-integration of optical and electrical routing, interconnections to photonic and electronic integrated circuits and an interface with fiber arrays for long-reach signaling.This SBIR will develop photonic-electronic panels for multi-chip integration capability as a manufacturable, commercially available, low-cost technology. Solutions developed under this topic shall meet a within panel optical interconnect pitch of 100-300 um that show non-blocking routing as well as co-integration with electronic wiring. A >16 channel detachable fiber attach unit (FAU) shall be developed as a method to introduce photonic signals to the panel. A minimum of two integrated circuits (ICs) must be mounted to the panels that integrate with the embedded signaling pathways. This mounting scheme could employ flip chip bonding IC, optical bumps, or other equivalent surface mount like bonding technologies 2. IC components shall be chosen such that they can demonstrate the ability to route both optical and electronic signals and are available commercially or from a foundry. The finalized integration of FAU, panel, and ICs is expected to meet the point-to-point optical link budget as specified in Table 1 below. In addition to meeting the link requirements for insertion loss (terminating at the PIC) the designed routing must demonstrate built-in optical loopback, e.g. a continuous optical loop from insertion point at the FAU through the system, in and out of a PIC, and returning to back to the same FAU. A notional schematic is included in Figure 1 to provide a visualization of the panel concept, the required loopback path, and highlight the two optical interfaces (OI-1 and OI-2) and waveguide (WG) components of the link budget. The panel prototype units delivered at the end of Phase II must be self-contained, environmentally robust, and meet minimum performance metrics.

Objective

Develop and demonstrate a prototype for photonic-electronic panel technology for the integration of photonic chips (PICs) that contain high-density three-dimensional chip-to-chip and intra-chip optical routing technology developed by the DARPA Heterogeneous Adaptively Produced Photonic Interfaces (H…

AI Summary

DARPA seeks development of high-speed mixed-signal integrated circuits using wide-bandgap materials (SiC/GaN) that maintain performance in extreme temperatures exceeding 800°C. This addresses critical reliability gaps for defense missile systems, aerospace propulsion, and deep-space missions requiring precision electronics in harsh thermal environments.

To achieve mission objectives, many national security systems require microelectronics with some level of radiation resilience or hardness. Being embedded in national security systems, microelectronics often have security or trust requirements as well. However, radiation hardness and security are usually developed independently and in isolation from each other. This call for proposals is to co-develop approaches to simultaneously achieve both radiation resilience and security.    Radiation resilience can be achieved by design techniques like standard cell optimizations, architectural innovations, or novel concepts of operation. Security can be achieved through approaches like obfuscation, redaction, and encryption. In each case, the technical approach is often a bespoke solution that requires customization to achieve the desired outcome which results in long and costly development cycles. Therefore, technologies that employ automation to shorten development cycles are required. Automation can take many forms, from generators that define circuit topologies to emulators that predict performance before the design is fabricated. For this activity, microelectronics can comprise monolithic integrated circuits or heterogeneously integrated systems.   Proposals that develop technologies to obfuscate both function and resilience to radiation are encouraged, as are proposals that include embedded sensors for environmental, state of health, and tamper monitoring.

Objective

To develop next generation microelectronics design and integration approaches that simultaneously result in resilience to ionizing radiation and enhanced security.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks innovative solutions using semantic overlay techniques to add new capabilities to existing military hardware without full system upgrades. By creatively repurposing current computational resources, the effort aims to bridge capability gaps where legacy systems can't be modernized through traditional procurement cycles.

The warfighter and their sustainment enterprise face the challenge of widely-fielded, well-understood, and battle-tested hardware being pervasive, but the rapidly evolving landscape of processing, sensor fusion, algorithms, and more do not keep pace with those. For example, often the Department looks to long-term program-of-record modernization programs which look at near-“green-field” approaches – such as creating a new flight computer system for a plane, before being able to load it with updated software. In these cases, “green-field” development approaches, incentives to sell new hardware, and difficulty of understanding legacy systems (e.g., vendor attrition, USG not retaining technical data packages) leads to “we have to upgrade it before we can have this new feature”. Likewise, new hardware can typically only be added at multi-year baseline intervals.   The challenge is to determine alternate paths. Developments in meta-programming borrowed from the security community allow new functions to be added to existing systems using their existing code through ‘semantic overlays’. This seeks innovative solutions that repurpose existing hardware to add net-new features not thought possible today due to resource limitations (lack-of-upgradeability, RAM, CPU, disk, etc).This approach shifts focus from procuring powerful hardware to creatively applying all available computational resources, no matter how minimal.   This is critically not creating new chips, new computing architectures, etc. Instead, this effort seeks to repurpose existing chips and architectures in novel ways to fill capability gap.

Objective

This effort will develop commercially viable re-use of existing DoW assets in lieu of new hardware investments. It will demonstrate achieving mission-capable performance, security, and stability into legacy “low-resource” assets (low-resource: end-of-lifed and/or < 25% of proposed new-system resourc…

AI Summary

This SBIR seeks biological finger regeneration technology using scaffolds and bioactive proteins to restore bone, cartilage, and soft tissue function. The approach addresses critical military joint injuries and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, enabling service members to return to unrestricted duty instead of requiring permanent implants or disability.

Joint injuries represent a critical threat to military readiness and long-term service member health. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) affects service members at a 12-fold higher rate than civilians, with joint injuries accounting for over 25% of all military medical evacuations from theater. Current treatment paradigms rely on joint replacement with metal and plastic implants that are fundamentally incompatible with military service requirements, preventing return to full duty and participation in high-impact activities essential for combat readiness. The economic burden exceeds $25 billion annually when accounting for direct medical costs, lost productivity, and disability compensation. Service members with PTOA face years of progressive disability, revision surgeries, and often permanent functional limitations. Hand and finger trauma from IED blasts affect 68% of service members' ability to return to full duty, while foot and ankle injuries severely limit mobility and load-bearing capacity crucial for deployment readiness. Current technology has demonstrated complete regeneration of 5cm segmental bone defects and full-thickness cartilage restoration in large animal models. However, effective reconstruction of dense connective tissues like tendon and ligament critical for the restoration of function has not been demonstrated. Unlike mechanical implants, regenerated tissue grows with the patient, self-repairs minor damage, and maintains the complex biomechanical properties optimized by evolution. This enables service members to return to unrestricted duty after experiencing a traumatic joint injury. This SBIR seeks a revolutionary approach: achieving complete biological finger regeneration by converging technologies that restore native tissue architecture and function, moving beyond current methods of mechanical stabilization and repair. Proposals should detail methods to produce scaffolds that provide an anatomically precise framework for regeneration and to deliver the bioactive proteins and therapeutic factors required to promote the growth of bone, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and the blood vessels necessary to sustain the new tissue. The platform will be able to address finger and hand injuries critical to military function, restoring fine motor control and full range of motion to hands. Focusing on the finger joints will provide a proof-of-concept for regenerating multiple integrated tissues through tissue-engineered approaches. This smaller-scale model is advantageous because it has lower load-bearing requirements than large joint reconstructions (such as the knee, shoulder, or hip), making it an ideal initial objective. Success metrics include complete regeneration of the finger digit verified by imaging, restoration of full range of motion and fine motor capacity appropriate. The technology will be immediately translatable to civilian populations, addressing the 1 million Americans annually who suffer major extremity injuries and establishing a new standard of care that makes prosthetics and metal implants obsolete.

Objective

Develop an on-demand regenerative medicine platform for complete finger restoration following trauma, enabling full functional recovery and eliminating the need for traditional finger and joint repair surgeries.

AI Summary

This SBIR opportunity seeks compact, wideband tunable microwave filters to protect DoD RF communications and electronic warfare systems from jamming and interference in congested electromagnetic environments. Solutions should deliver superior bandwidth, selectivity, and minimal insertion loss while maintaining a small form factor.

The DoW relies heavily on RF communications and EW systems for critical tactical operations. Current filters often struggle to provide sufficient bandwidth, selectivity, and agility to operate effectively in congested electromagnetic environments. The increasing use of the RF spectrum, coupled with the growing sophistication of adversarial electronic attacks, necessitates advanced RF filtering technologies. The DARPA Wideband Adaptive RF Protection (WARP)[1] program is developing advanced filter and canceller technology to protect wideband receivers from external and self-interference. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) opportunity seeks innovative solutions for wideband tunable microwave filters that offer superior performance in bandwidth, insertion loss, rejection, size, and power. The focus is on protecting wideband receivers from external interference and jamming.

Objective

Develop and demonstrate wideband, power-efficient and tunable radio frequency (RF) filter technologies that significantly improve spectrum access and signal integrity for Department of War (DOW) communications and electronic warfare (EW) systems.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks swarm-based micro-robotics capable of autonomous medical assistance for battlefield casualties in mass casualty incidents. Proposed systems must demonstrate at least two capabilities—such as casualty extraction, limb stabilization, hemorrhage control, or medication delivery—while remaining portable enough for IFAK integration or drone deployment.

This topic addresses a critical battlefield medical need through the development of innovative swarm-based small-robotic systems capable of autonomous medical assistance to incapacitated and difficult to reach casualties. Future Large Scale Combat Operations (LSCO) predict massive casualty incidents, delayed evacuation, and insufficient capacity of the medical system, especially from the point-of-injury to Role 1 medical care [1]. With a delayed medical response casualties have a high chance of dying due to lack of hemorrhage control which is the leading cause of potentially survivable death in both battlefield and civilian trauma cases prehospital [2,3]. Autonomous medical care may be essential for saving lives in these future contexts, especially for casualties who are unable to treat themselves, have no buddy aide in proximity, or are in inaccessible areas for human medical response. This topic calls for a solution of an autonomous, self-deploying, wound assessing, swarm-capable, self-linking, mobile robotic solution to assist reaching and moving casualties and perform life-saving interventions (LSIs) at the point-of-need. Small swarm robotics provide advantages in their ability to access difficult to reach casualties obscured by rubble and terrain, can adapt by conjoining or detaching to meet the need of a detected casualty, and are ideal for limited space during unmanned evacuation assistance. We believe this is achievable due to the recent advancements in swarm, self-assembling, and mobile robotics, as well as robotics for medical applications [4–7]. For this topic, the novel robotic system should demonstrate at least two of the following four essential capabilities, one form each category:   Extraction: Movement of a casualty a short distance (10m) and/or onto a SKED or litter  Stabilization of a fractured limb through the entanglement of rigid structures   Treatment: Manage massive extremity or junctional hemorrhage control Delivery of medications through intramuscular injection or placement of intraosseous needle   First, a solution can demonstrate the ability to leverage a swarm architecture to coordinate the capability to drag/move a casualty a short distance and or position the casualty onto an extraction SKED or litter. Coordinated swarm maneuvers would allow smaller robotics capable of navigating tight spaces lift or drag a casualty together when a single unit may not have the dragging capacity otherwise.   Second, a solution can demonstrate protective limb stabilization by entangling multiple robotic units around or along a limb. By interlocking systems, a solution should provide protective bracing around an injured body-part to prevent further injury during casualty movement.   Third, a solution can demonstrate the ability to self-arrange and reassemble into shapes to provide massive hemorrhage control. The goal will be to create a “smart tourniquet” capable of autonomously clamping around injured limbs to stop arterial blood flow as well as apply sufficient pressure and coverage over a junctional wound. The solution will need the necessary sensing and intelligence to identify and locate the hemorrhage injury and advanced capabilities and swarm architecture to reassemble into a hemostatic tool.   Fourth, a solution can demonstrate the ability to deliver medications to a casualty either through intramuscular injection or establishing an intraosseous infusion. Due to the intended smaller size, the medical robotic solution could be an ideal assistant in the tight quarters of unmanned evacuation vehicles. The ability to provide medications and fluids enables higher qualities of care by autonomous and unmanned systems.   The proposed design for a robotic solution should aim to accomplish two of the four tasks with at least one from each category of extraction and treatment while being as small, light, and portable as possible. Proposals that can accomplish more tasks will be reviewed more favorably. The topic is not prescribing a design choice, and proposers are welcome to propose any form factor of robotic system that provides mobility, a swarm architecture, and self-assembly and deployment. The desired utilization of these robots is for individual/self-aid in a frontline environment with the aim to fit into an Individual First Aid Kid (IFAK) or lightweight enough to be deployed via drone-swarm. By leveraging a modular, interconnected, swarm-capable architecture the design should allow for mobility across dynamic environments, adaptability to various anatomies and injuries, and low-cost manufacturing.

Objective

Develop and demonstrate small-robotic swarms capable of autonomous battlefield medical assistance, including short casualty movement, hemorrhage control, fracture stabilization, and medication delivery.

AI Summary

This SBIR seeks an integrated, automated whole blood transfusion device that streamlines donor collection and recipient transfusion through complete end-to-end automation, continuous monitoring, and embedded AI. The solution addresses high failure rates and extended timelines in military field transfusions by eliminating manual steps, reducing human error, and enabling rapid blood operations in austere environments.

The current processes for blood collection and transfusion are complex and labor-intensive with real-time decision-making presently executed by numerous skilled medical professionals and varied systems and technologies, and prone to human error. Data from Combat Training Centers (CTC) demonstrate that less than a 60% success rate at WB transfusion and that the average time from initiating a walking blood bank to completing the transfusion of one unit of blood is over 40 minutes. This data is also obtained without significant duress for the trainees – no patient is dying and there is not actual risk to the medical providers (i.e., no actual indirect or direct fire). Multiple factors contribute to this including the identification of suitable veins for venipuncture, to ensuring accurate typing and crossmatching of blood, to the physical requirements of priming IV tubing, agitating the blood collection bag, maintaining gravity for drainage… each step presents opportunities for mistakes that at best risk lost units of blood (and lost donors) and at worst have life-threatening consequences. These outcomes and considerations highlight the intrinsically complex difficulties of the process and greater impact to expected outcomes in Department of War (DoW) workflows with and for its warfighters.This SBIR topic seeks innovative proposals for a single, integrated device that addresses these challenges through complete automation and continuous monitoring of both the donor and recipient. The device should be easily applicable to a wide range of patient sizes and ages and must autonomously collect blood (assess adequacy of vascular access and provide pump action, real-time mixing of citrate anticoagulant to ensure each drop of blood is usable in the event of a “short” donation, continuous unit agitation), type and screen the donated blood, type and crossmatch the recipient to ensure viability for donation, and transfuse blood with heated circuit. Additional options include: pressure transfusion to rapidly transfuse blood, direct donor-to-recipient transfusion, up-to-double unit collection from a single donor, autonomous venipuncture for other procedures requiring vascular access, blood unit extraction for other uses. All equipment to perform all functions are housed within the device and there is absolutely no need to access or manipulate anything. In configuration one, attach the device IV tubing to the donor’s IV (and/or the recipients IV) and push “go.” In configuration 2, place the device on the respective donors or recipients for venous access and push “go.” The device should also incorporate cost permissive non-invasive sensors to continuously monitor donor and recipient vital signs (e.g., HR, SpO2, respirations, blood pressure, temperature). The device must be programmed to recognize abnormal vital sign patterns or other concerning indications of a blood transfusion reaction and automatically alert medical personnel. The goal is to create a self-contained unit that can be applied to a blood donor or recipient and, with minimal human intervention, perform all necessary steps for safe and effective blood collection and transfusion. The continuous monitoring and alert system will further enhance safety by providing an early warning of potential adverse events. This will reduce variability and errors, increase precision and reproducibility, enhance efficiency and efficacy, eliminate the need to manage individual equipment elements, and free up medical personnel for other critical activities. The proposed device should integrate and miniaturize existing technologies, incorporating robust sensors, AI-driven decision logic, and secure data connectivity. The device must meet stringent safety and reliability standards, with built-in fail-safes and comprehensive monitoring capabilities. The device should also be ruggedized for use in austere environments. Successful proposals will demonstrate a clear path toward a deployable prototype that can significantly improve blood transfusion services in both military and civilian settings. Target cost for such a device should be less than $300 at market price, weigh less than 5 lbs when empty, be rugged enough to drop from a standing height, and be designed to fit in a “golden hour cooler” if the blood will not be used immediately and to be discarded after transfusion is complete. The devices must include end-to-end automation of the process and anticipate a single product submission for FDA approval. The essential steps to automate (and integrate) include: Vascular access (placement of IV catheter in patient). Miniaturization of automated vascular access. Human hooks donor/recipient up IV tubing to IV/IO. Assessment of the suitability for drainage of a placed vascular access (IV or IO). Assessment of donor blood type. Infectious disease screen. Infusion of appropriate amount of anticoagulant (citrate) in real-time (avoids problem of underfilling). Agitation. Stoppage when bag is “full” (avoids problem of overfilling and over collecting in the event that donation and transfusion are synchronous). *Individual must remove and reset/connect the device to recipient Assessment of recipient blood type (by finger/skin prick, no IV/IO required) - synchronous or asynchronous execution. Assessment of recipient vascular access - synchronous or asynchronous execution. Determine Whether to Initiate Transfusion ALLOWS TRANFUSION ONLY AFTER CONDITIONS MET (matching blood type, access sufficient) – avoids anaphylaxis, lost time, lost blood. Transfuses blood on pump (faster than by gravity). Transfuses calcium after blood transfusion complete to reverse anticoagulant effect of citrate (optional). Report successful completion of procedure. Secure or Discontinue IV catheter.

Objective

Develop and demonstrate a self-contained, autonomous device capable of blood collection, temporary storage (<4hr), diagnostic testing, and transfusion, with continuous donor/recipient monitoring and alerts to issues, revolutionize safe, efficient and effective blood collection and transfusion in bot…

AI Summary

DARPA seeks thin-film heat spreader technology for high-power microsystems operating in extreme conditions. The innovation must manage heat dissipation in semiconductor lasers and high-temperature electronics while remaining thermally conductive, electrically insulating, and compatible with existing manufacturing processes.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals for the research and development of thin-film heat spreader technology.   Current heat spreader solutions use high thermal conductivity (TC) materials like copper (TC: 400 W/m·K) and aluminum nitride (TC: 320 W/m·K). However, these solutions lack the complete set of properties needed to make them both effective at heat spreading and survivable in extreme environments. The ultimate thin-film heat spreader must:  1) have high thermal conductivity and low thermal boundary resistance; 2) be integrable with a range of microsystem technologies with low deposition temperature; 3) be electrically insulating; and 4) be scalable, supporting formation on substrates ranging from small dies to full wafers. For this Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) opportunity, specific targets of interest for demonstrating heat spreader approaches are high power semiconductor lasers and extreme temperature electronics.   High power density systems like semiconductor lasers are employed across a broad range of industries, including communications, manufacturing, medical diagnostics and treatment, and national security. However, high-power lasers based on III-V semiconductor materials face significant thermal management challenges, largely due to the inherently low thermal conductivity of these materials. To address this, integrating effective heat spreaders near the active region is critical to enhancing device performance, thus improving wavelength stability, boosting laser efficiency and reliability, and mitigating thermal-induced distortions.   The importance of heat spreaders also extends to electronic systems and sensors operating in extreme thermal environments (exceeding 800°C). At high temperatures, phonon scattering reduces heat conductivity and reduces the effectiveness of heat spreaders. Such conditions are encountered in oil and gas exploration, geothermal technologies, combustion engines, and military systems. In the absence of efficient thermal energy dissipation, localized temperatures can rise by over 200°C above ambient, resulting in peak device temperatures approaching 1000°C—levels that can severely degrade performance, compromise structural integrity, and shorten device lifespan.   For this SBIR, proposals that develop heat spreader technologies that accommodate both high power density microsystems and extreme temperature microsystems are encouraged. Laminate film stacks are acceptable. Approaches that require active cooling are discouraged. Additionally, the heat spreader technology should have the following characteristics:  Uniform and conformal heat spreader thickness from 100 nm to 5 µm Less than 450°C deposition temperature for compatibility with a broad spectrum of microsystems  Scalability from dies to full substrates  Thermal conductivity > 1500 W/m·K  Thermal boundary resistance  Low surface roughness with High electrical resistance Low residual film stress that induces no warpage in the substrate Survivability and high performance to 800°C and beyond (laser devices with proposed heat spreader are not required to meet this threshold)

Objective

To develop passive thermal management technologies for extreme environment and high-power density systems, resulting in a conformal thin-film heat spreader technology with significant improvements compared to conventional copper heat spreaders.

AI Summary

DARPA seeks nanopore-based technology for direct, single-molecule protein sequencing to enable rapid detection of unknown protein-based biological threats. This approach aims to overcome limitations of current mass spectrometry methods by providing real-time identification without destructive sample processing.

Proteomics has emerged as a crucial field for understanding diseases, developing diagnostics, and designing effective therapeutics. Rapid, agnostic detection of future unknown protein-based biological threats necessitates the development of single-molecule protein sequencing technology that can differentiate the 20 canonical amino acids and beyond. While DNA sequencing has become widely accessible, protein sequencing has lagged behind due to significant technical complexity, including the 20 primary amino acids, numerous non-canonical and modified amino acids, hundreds of post-translational modifications (PTMs), the inability to amplify samples, a high dynamic range in biological samples, and variable solubility (1). The Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA) seeks to build a technology that can directly read individual biological polymers (e.g., proteins) through the use of nanopore-based platforms. The technology will enable the identification of unknown biomolecules in real time with reliable devices to address detection gaps for protein-based threats. The current State of the Art (SOA) in proteomic polymer sequencing is defined by mass spectrometry (MS)-based platforms that allow deep qualitative and quantitative analysis of protein sequence, expression, interactions and post-translational modifications. The predominant “bottom-up” strategy involves enzymatic digestion of proteins into peptides, which are subsequently separated by liquid chromatography prior to identification and quantification using tandem MS. Despite demonstrating great utility, this destructive process often provides incomplete sequence coverage and critical information regarding full-length protein isoforms and the combinatorial arrangement of post-translational modifications on a single protein molecule is lost. Recent advances in data-independent acquisition approaches, run on SOA instrumentation like Orbitraps and TimsTOFs, now enable the quantification of over 10,000 proteins from bulk samples and can identify over 5,000 proteins at the single-cell level (2). Despite this remarkable capability, the technology is constrained by limited dynamic range making the detection of low-abundance proteins challenging. Any novel, single-molecule protein sequencing approach will ultimately be measured against these established technological benchmarks that depend upon inferring protein identities from peptide fragments. Novel nanopore-based technologies offer a promising path towards direct, real-time, single-molecule sequencing, potentially overcoming many of the limitations of current MS-based methods (3,4,5). To meet the need for rapid detection of unknown biological threats, DARPA seeks biological nanopore-based technology to advance our capability to read proteins, including novel sample preparation technologies, engineered protein-based motors and nanopores for molecular transit, and machine learning models for deconvoluting electronic signals.

Objective

To develop a next-generation single-molecule sensing and sequencing platform that delivers robust, high-accuracy, high-throughput, and scalable reading of biomolecules.

AI Summary

DARPA seeks development of high-speed mixed-signal semiconductors using wide-bandgap materials (SiC/GaN) that operate reliably above 800°C. This addresses critical needs for extreme-temperature electronics in missile systems, space exploration, and geothermal monitoring where conventional silicon fails.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative proposals for the research and development of mixed-signal IC technology. Semiconductor electronics face significant challenges in extreme thermal environments, where conventional silicon-based technologies degrade beyond 250°C, limiting their use in defense, aerospace, and energy applications. As demand grows for long-duration reliability, wide-bandgap materials like silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) offer promising alternatives due to their thermal resilience and electrical performance, yet current high-temperature electronics still lack the speed, stability, and manufacturability needed for widespread deployment. To address this, the Department of War (DOW) has launched targeted innovations to enhance high-temperature semiconductor capabilities. Missile guidance and propulsion systems require precision sensing and signal processing despite exposure to extreme heat, ensuring reliable performance in defense applications. Likewise, geothermal and nuclear monitoring depend on real-time sensing in sustained high-temperature environments to maintain system integrity. Space missions, such as Venus landers, demand electronics capable of withstanding surface temperatures approaching 500°C for long-duration survivability. While SiC-based electronics demonstrate operability beyond 800°C, their limited switching speed constrains high-performance applications requiring fast signal processing and complex computing. Conversely, GaN-based semiconductors offer superior speed but lack validated long-term stability at extreme temperatures. DARPA’s High Operational Temperature Sensors (HOTS) program has paved the way for high-speed integrated circuits optimized for ultra-high temperatures, providing crucial insights into material engineering, thermal management, and circuit design. This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) opportunity seeks to build on these advancements by developing a scalable wafer-based fabrication process for high-speed mixed-signal ICs, optimized for extreme temperatures. The initiative aims to establish a manufacturable microelectronics platform, enabling DOW stakeholders to design and deploy high-temperature semiconductor technologies across defense, aerospace, and energy sectors. By advancing material engineering, thermal mitigation strategies, and circuit architectures, this effort will overcome current limitations, delivering high-speed, thermally resilient electronics capable of sustained operation at 800°C.

Objective

To develop a manufacturable mixed-signal integrated circuit (IC) technology capable of reliable operation in harsh environments, specifically high-temperature conditions up to 800°C.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks a shelf-stable canine whole blood product or substitute to improve Military Working Dog survival rates in combat. The solution must safely treat traumatic blood loss in operational environments with shelf-life exceeding three years and thermal stability across extreme temperatures.

This topic is in support of the DoD Working Dog Strategic Research Plan concerning solutions for bleeding control and coagulopathy support.1 The Military Working Dog (MWD) provides a unique and important service to the warfighter. MWDs serve as sentries, perform tracking and patrol, and are used for the detection of explosives. These activities come with a high risk of injury. Uncontrolled hemorrhage following traumatic injury accounts for over 45% of all MWD battlefield deaths2. The current standard of care for hemorrhage in the MWD is to provide immediate fluid therapy through the delivery of crystalloid fluids as the first-line treatment, which is then followed by a synthetic colloid or hypertonic saline. These treatments also require the administration of supplemental oxygen to maintain appropriate oxygen levels and for the survival of the MWD3. To improve their survival rates, the development of a shelf stable canine whole blood product or substitute is a critical priority.   The goal of this topic is to develop a stable canine whole blood product and/or substitute (i.e. hemoglobin or polymer oxygen carriers), intended for canine use at both POI and throughout the continuum of care. The product should have a shelf-life of greater than 3 years and be thermal stable (-9℃ to 60℃) to ensure accessibility in operational environments. The product must primarily replicate the oxygen carrier characteristics of whole blood and demonstrate the ability to be used safely and effectively to treat blood loss following traumatic injury. This research topic does not support the use of canines for testing purposes. Any animal testing would require use of suitable animal models that would approximate the response of a canine.   Blood products derived from canine donors must be negative for canine red blood cell antigens DEA 1.1 and DEA 1.2. Donor animals must also be tested for blood borne diseases including canine brucellosis, hemobartonellosis, Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm disease), Ehrlichia canis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Coccidioides immitis, Babesia canis, Babesia gibsoni, Mycoplasma haemocanis and plasma levels of von Willebrand factor. All donor animals must be current on immunizations for canine distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, Bordatella, coronavirus and rabies virus as applicable.

Objective

Develop a whole blood product or substitute to aid in hemorrhage control for Military Working Dogs (MWD) after battlefield injury that can be used near the point of injury (POI) and throughout the continuum of care to reduce morbidity and mortality.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks development of small-molecule antifungal compounds effective against resistant fungi like Candida auris and Aspergillus species. The goal is to address rising fungal infection rates and hospitalizations by creating safer, broad-spectrum alternatives to current treatments limited by toxicity and drug resistance.

Fungal infections represent a growing global health challenge, particularly among immuno-compromised individuals. Invasive fungal infections caused by pathogens such as Candida species, Aspergillus species, Fusarium species, and Mucor species are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Fungal infections are associated with 130k hospitalizations, 13 million outpatient visits, and result in a financial burden of $19 billion on the civilian health care sector. Fungal wound infections in particular are also growing challenge for the military. Despite the availability of antifungal agents, current treatments are often limited by toxicity, drug resistance, and narrow-spectrum activity. The emergence of multidrug-resistant fungal strains, such as Candida auris, has further exacerbated the need for novel antifungal therapies. Small molecules with antifungal properties offer a promising avenue for addressing these challenges. Their ability to target specific fungal pathways, combined with the potential for oral bioavailability and low manufacturing costs, makes them ideal candidates for therapeutic development. However, significant scientific and technical hurdles remain with the discovery and optimization of small molecules that are both effective against fungal pathogens and safe for human use. Qualified proposals should identify small molecules with antifungal properties from an existing library. These small molecules should be active against all of the following fungi: Fusarium species, Aspergillus species, Candida auris, or Mucorales species. Qualified molecules will have antifungal activity at nanomolar concentrations. Further, these small molecules must have a cytotoxicity profile similar, or better than Amphotericin B.

Objective

This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into Phase II and accepts Direct to Phase II proposals only. The proposed research will focus on identifying compounds with broad-spectrum activity against clinically relevant fungal pathogens while minimizing toxicity to humans. Th…

AI Summary

The Air Force seeks a non-invasive wearable device that continuously detects viral and bacterial infections through biomarkers in saliva or sweat, then delivers immediate broad-spectrum treatment in austere operational environments where medical care is unavailable, enabling early threat response and improved warfighter survivability.

The DHA Strategic Research Plan (SRP): Environmental Exposures (June 2024) lists two capability requirements under the “Assess” and “Treat” capability areas that align with this proposal: Environmental Detection and Health Risk Assessments under Assess and Environmental Exposures Treatment under Treat. In addition, the DHA SRP: Military Infectious Diseases (May 2024) lists three capability requirements under the “Prevent”, “Treat”, and “Enable” capability areas that align with this proposal: Prevention of Military Relevant Endemic and Emerging Infectious Diseases under Prevent, Treatment of Military Relevant Endemic and Emerging Infectious Diseases under Treat, and Core Competencies under Enable.   The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is looking for an advanced, non-invasive (does not break the skin or physically enter the body) wearable device (i.e., flash/continuous glucose style monitoring) capable of qualitatively detecting all-viral and all-bacterial infections using discrete biomarkers for such infections: TRAIL, MxA, CD46, IP-10, PTX3, or other non-blood based biomarkers (saliva, sweat, etc.) for viral infections and CRP, PCT, IL-6, IL-8, CD35, CD55, CD64, pro-ADM, or other non-blood based biomarkers (saliva, sweat, etc.) for bacterial infections. The end goal is a wearable device that discretely detects viral and bacterial infections and renders initial, broad-spectrum anti-viral or anti-bacterial treatment(s) at austere operational environments where no immediate medical countermeasures and no other detection capabilities are available until casualties are evacuated to locations with more robust medical resources for additional and specific differentiation and treatment. At a higher echelon of care, medical personnel must be able to receive data from the device to find out what category of threats (viral or bacterial) has triggered a biomarker detection and what corresponding treatments have been rendered to the affected force before providing more advanced care.   By continuously monitoring validated biomarkers, this device will empower warfighters to detect and respond to biological threats early, enhancing their survivability and operational effectiveness in high-threat theaters and mitigating risks to mission and force. This Air Force Medical Command initiative improves force health protection and ensures mission success. Dual-use functionality of this technology will focus on civilian healthcare systems.

Objective

Develop a non-invasive wearable device that can discretely detect biomarkers for and provide initial broad-spectrum treatment for pan-viral and pan-bacterial infections. If fielded for military use, it may require additional security measures.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks detection technologies and systemic treatments for hazardous material exposures absorbed by military working dogs in combat operations. Proposals should address internal contamination via injection kits with identifiers and treatments, or blood filtration systems deployable by veterinary personnel.

This topic is in support of the DoD Working Dog Strategic Research Plan concerning mitigation, countermeasures and treatments for toxin/toxic exposures1. In modern military operations, military working dogs (MWDs) are at risk of exposure by many different types of hazardous materials. These include toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) and materials (TIMs) such as hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, glycols, hazardous metals, gases (hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen sulfide, freon, carbon monoxide, etc.), acids and alkali substances. Techniques for the decontamination of hazardous material exposures to the surface of the MWD are well defined2,3,4. Although there are useful treatment options for external decontamination, there are few treatment options for toxic exposures that have been absorbed into the body of the MWD.   The objective of this topic is to develop new treatments for MWDs against hazardous materials that have been absorbed into the body either through the skin or mucous membranes, by inhalation, or ingestion. Current systemic treatments employed to care for MWDs include supportive antibiotic therapy for sulfur mustard, atropine injections for nerve agents, and Narcan for narcotics, but there are limited treatment options available for TIC/TIM exposures4,5,6. Systemic treatments for the MWD should be able to be performed by veterinarians and their support personnel (trained animal care specialists (68T) in Role 1 and/or veterinary medical and surgical teams (VMST) in Role 2). Potential MWD systemic treatments could include but are not limited to kits containing indicators or detectors of TIC/TIM exposure with easily identifiable injectable treatments for the identified contaminant (indicator/detector) and/or hemoperfusion systems and filters that can be used to remove contaminants from the blood (systemic). This research topic does not support the use of canines for testing purposes. Any animal testing would require use of a suitable animal model that would approximate the response of a canine.

Objective

Develop decontamination treatments for military working dogs that have been exposed to toxic industrial chemicals and materials through the performance of their duties.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks innovative detection and treatment methods for traumatic brain injury in military working dogs, addressing high mortality rates and performance impacts. Solutions should leverage existing research from animal models to improve clinical outcomes beyond current supportive care approaches.

This topic is in support of the DoD Working Dog Strategic Research Plan concerning mitigation, strategies, and treatments for the detection and treatment of TBI.1 Due to the high-risk nature of MWD operations, TBI is a common injury. TBI in the MWD carries an extremely high mortality rate with a prehospital mortality of over 40% for severe TBI cases. It is estimated that 25-40% of all MWD trauma cases are accompanied by TBI, but there is limited data concerning the short- and long-term effects of TBI on the performance and health of the MWD. Current clinical detection methods for TBI in the MWD are by the observation of altered mentation (coma, stupor, depression, lethargy, inappropriate behavior or responses) of the MWD and by use of the modified veterinary Glasgow coma scale or with physical evidence of head trauma (e.g., lacerations, abrasions, bruising, swelling, pain, bleeding from the nose or ears). Current treatment guidelines for TBI in MWDs are largely based on treatment recommendations for humans and are primarily supportive measures to maintain blood pressure, oxygen levels, proper ventilation, and body temperature to mitigate secondary injuries2,3,4. There have been many TBI detection methods and treatment strategies developed for humans that have shown promising results in rodent and large animal models5. The objective of this SBIR is to review research that was performed in rodents, canines, or other large animal models that could be repurposed for the detection and treatment of TBI specifically in MWDs. This research topic does not support the use of canines for testing purposes. Any animal testing would require use of suitable animal model that would approximate the response of a canine.

Objective

Evaluate previously developed traumatic brain injury (TBI) detection and treatments methods that can be repurposed for use in military working dogs (MWDs) after suffering from battlefield injuries.

AI Summary

DLA seeks an agentic AI framework with specialized agents to automate and strengthen defensive cybersecurity operations and penetration testing. The multi-agent system would autonomously execute complex security workflows, from network enumeration to vulnerability analysis, mimicking human cybersecurity team coordination.

DLA seeks SBIR project opportunities for an agentic AI framework designed to strengthen its defensive cybersecurity posture and automate penetration testing. The proposed solution involves a team of specialized AI Agents, each configured with specific tools, knowledge, and roles, that collaborate to execute complex cybersecurity workflows. The core innovation lies in a collaborative, multi-agent framework that mimics the workflow of a human cybersecurity team, enabling autonomous execution of complex, multi-step tasks. Specific agent roles and functions of interest include: Project Management: Devising high-level plans for security tasks, such as network enumeration or vulnerability assessment, using algorithms and security frameworks (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK). Cyber Analysis: Interpreting raw data from scans and tests to identify and prioritize defensive actions and vulnerabilities, utilizing vulnerability databases and threat intelligence feeds. Code Generation & Execution: Translating high-level plans and priorities into executable code and command-line instructions (e.g., NMAP, Metasploit) and running them in emulated environments. Vulnerability Research: Conducting deep-dive analysis on specific vulnerabilities using Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) against a corpus of CVEs, CPEs, and technical documentation. Research and Development (R&D) efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully established.

Objective

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) manages a vast and complex global supply chain, underpinned by a sprawling digital infrastructure. The objective is to address the fact that traditional cybersecurity approaches, which rely heavily on manual processes and human expertise, are increasingly strained …

AI Summary

DLA seeks novel rare earth element separation technologies that are cost-competitive and scalable to strengthen domestic supply chain resilience. The effort addresses critical defense platform dependencies on overseas rare earth sourcing by developing efficient, modular processes that reduce operational costs and manufacturing hazards.

Rare earth separation processes have historically been performed overseas due to challenges associated with 1) operations cost/profitability, 2) feedstock sourcing, and 3) hazardous chemistries. These issues have been further compounded by artificial price controls that prevent domestic startups from gaining a foothold in global markets. A wide range of defense platforms rely on small quantities of a variety of rare earth elements, rendering the defense industrial base susceptible to global supply chain disruptions for these critical elements. To this end, DLA seeks to develop novel and highly efficient rare earth separation technologies that are cost-competitive in the global market. New approaches that increase the domestic availability and supply chain resiliency of rare earth oxides will have preference. The ideal production process will be both modular and easily scalable.

Objective

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) seeks to provide responsive, best value supplies of related materials consistently to our Department of War (DoW) customers and other DoW stakeholders. DLA continually investigates a variety of critical minerals for more efficient means of their production, opportu…

AI Summary

STRIKE AI is an AI-enabled mission planning system that automates rapid response coordination across cyber and physical domains to defend critical infrastructure. It interprets commander objectives and generates deconflicted, executable defense plans for operational technology environments with human oversight.

DoW, in partnership with homeland security stakeholders, seeks SBIR project opportunities for STRIKE AI, an AI-enabled mission planning system designed to automate the planning and synchronization of effects to defend Operational Technology (OT) infrastructure. This system will function as a rapid response planning tool, ingesting high-level commander's intent (e.g., "Ensure integrity of the regional power grid") and rapidly generating executable, deconflicted response plans for both cyber and physical assets. The proposed solution is a holistic, AI-driven planning engine that can reason across multiple domains (cyber, physical, intelligence) and orchestrate complex response operations at machine speed. Specific areas of interest for this framework include: Commander's Intent Interpretation: Processing high-level defensive objectives and translating them into specific tasks for cyber protection teams, law enforcement, and military response units. Modeling OT Environments and Assets: Maintaining a comprehensive model of friendly defensive assets (e.g., CISA incident response teams, National Guard cyber units, physical security teams) and a detailed model of the targeted OT environment, including its specific controllers (PLCs, RTUs), network topology, and known vulnerabilities. Threat Analysis: Ingesting intelligence data from multiple sources to model adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) against critical infrastructure. Automated Response Plan Generation: Utilizing advanced algorithms to generate, deconflict, and sequence defensive actions (e.g., network segmentation, honeypot deployment) and offensive responses (e.g., counter-cyber operations, interdiction of physical threats) to neutralize threats while minimizing collateral damage and service disruption. Human-on-the-Loop Oversight: Presenting generated response plans in an intuitive format for human commanders (e.g., at USNORTHCOM, CISA) to review, modify, and approve before execution.

Objective

U.S. critical infrastructure—including power grids, water treatment facilities, and transportation networks—is increasingly targeted by sophisticated adversaries using coordinated cyber and physical attacks. The Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) governing this infrastr…

AI Summary

DLA Weapon Support seeks supply chain solutions to overcome readiness delays caused by material shortages and production inefficiencies. The program pursues innovative sourcing strategies, advanced manufacturing techniques, and new supplier partnerships to reduce lead times and strengthen supply chain resilience.

DLA Weapon Support requires a solution to address readiness challenges caused by delays or shortages of DLA-managed items critical to the manufacturing of components needed to achieve fully mission-capable status. These issues stem from supply chain inefficiencies, material shortages, and production delays, which hinder the timely availability of essential items. We need innovative, cost-effective approaches to improve supply chain reliability, reduce lead times, and ensure consistent access to the materials and components required to maintain mission readiness. Additionally, we seek to engage new suppliers capable of providing innovative solutions, including advanced manufacturing techniques, reverse engineering capabilities, and alternative sourcing strategies, to expand the supplier base and enhance supply chain resilience.

Objective

The objective of this SBIR is to develop innovative, cost-effective solutions to address readiness challenges caused by delays or shortages of DLA-managed items critical to the manufacturing of components needed to achieve fully mission-capable status. This includes engaging new suppliers to provide…

AI Summary

DLA seeks U.S.-based manufacturers to rapidly produce custom and replacement fixtures for Navy ship maintenance. This capability addresses critical supply chain gaps where missing or broken specialized tools currently halt fleet operations for months.

When Navy ships enter the port for maintenance, work often stops because a single, specialized tool or fixture is broken, missing, or was never designed. Sourcing a replacement can take months, idling entire maintenance teams and delaying the ship's return to the fleet. DLA needs a network of responsive, U.S.-based manufacturing partners who can quickly build these custom and replacement fixtures, turning a critical vulnerability in our maritime supply chain into a domestic manufacturing strength.

Objective

The objective of this SBIR is to establish and demonstrate a rapid-response manufacturing capability that directly addresses critical maintenance delays in Navy shipyards. This capability will empower DLA to source custom or replacement fixtures in days, not months, by enabling agile partners to rap…

AI Summary

DLA seeks an AI-assisted tool to pre-review cybersecurity documentation artifacts and identify gaps or weaknesses before formal assessment. The solution should analyze control statements and architecture documents to provide confidence-scored feedback, helping R&D teams improve RMF package quality and reduce rejection rates.

DLA seeks SBIR project opportunities for an AI-assisted pre-adjudication tool that analyzes draft RMF artifacts to assess their readiness for formal cybersecurity review. Proposed solutions should operate on submitted artifacts (e.g., control implementation statements, system architecture documents) as primary inputs rather than relying on conversational user interfaces. The proposed capability should be able to: Identify missing, inconsistent, or weak control implementation statements. Distinguish between the presence of a control narrative and the sufficiency and clarity of supporting evidence. Generate structured, confidence-scored analytical feedback to help R&D teams improve documentation quality. Incorporate an explicit human attestation mechanism to preserve accountability and prevent reliance on unreviewed AI outputs. Proposed approaches should demonstrate familiarity with RMF assessment practices, including how assessors evaluate documentation sufficiency, inherited controls, and architectural maturity in early-stage systems. The goal is to reduce RMF package rejection and rework rates without altering existing RMF authority structures.

Objective

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) seeks to determine whether AI-enabled, human-attested analysis can improve Risk Management Framework (RMF) documentation quality and reduce rework cycles in research, development, and rapid prototyping contexts. R&D teams frequently submit incomplete or inconsisten…

AI Summary

DLA seeks a magnesium-free flameless ration heater to safely warm military meals while eliminating fire hazards in enclosed spaces. The alternative must use domestic materials, reduce hazardous waste concerns, and strengthen supply chain resilience.

The current Flameless Ration Heater (FRH) used for heating military rations relies on a magnesium-based chemical reaction that produces significant quantities of flammable hydrogen gas. This poses a fire and explosion hazard, particularly in enclosed spaces like vehicles and shelters. Furthermore, bulk, unused FRHs are classified as a reactive hazardous waste by the USEPA, which complicates disposal and transportation logistics. The dependency on foreign sources for the specific grade of magnesium required also creates a strategic supply chain vulnerability. DLA requires a new, domestically sourced ration heater that enhances soldier safety, eliminates logistical and environmental burdens, and ensures a resilient supply chain.

Objective

The objective of this SBIR is to develop and validate an innovative, magnesium-free chemical heating technology for military rations that is safe, cost-effective, and environmentally benign. The new heater must meet or exceed the performance of the current FRH without producing flammable gases.

AI Summary

DLA seeks a centralized, secure data system to provide real-time visibility into available manufacturing capacity at universities and research facilities. This capability enables rapid deployment of underutilized resources to support critical defense supply chain needs during emergencies or demand surges.

DLA needs to quickly find and use extra manufacturing capacity from places like universities and research labs, especially during national emergencies or when demand for military parts suddenly increases. Currently, there is no easy way to know what machines, skills, or production time are available at these facilities, or to securely and quickly bring them into the defense supply chain. This project aims to create a centralized, secure data system that provides real-time visibility into this untapped manufacturing power, allowing DLA to rapidly match available resources to critical defense needs, reducing risk and increasing the agility of the U.S. industrial base.

Objective

The objective of this SBIR is to develop and prototype a secure, AI-driven system that provides DLA with real-time visibility into untapped manufacturing capabilities and capacities from tertiary sources like educational and research institutions. The final system should be able to map these resourc…

AI Summary

DLA seeks domestic production capabilities for refractory powders used in aerospace and defense applications, addressing current supply chain reliance on imports. Proposals should demonstrate novel recycling or manufacturing techniques for refractory metals, carbides, and borides that meet defense specifications while offering modular, scalable solutions.

Refractory powders are a critical feedstock for many high-temperature defense applications, and the US is strongly reliant on imported materials to meet production needs. Varying powder qualities and increasing procurement costs/lead times upstream limit domestic production capabilities downstream. To this end, DLA is looking for wholly domestic capabilities to recycle and produce refractory metals, carbides, and borides that meet or exceed defense specifications. Novel techniques that increase the domestic availability and supply chain resiliency of refractory materials will have preference. The ideal production process will be both modular and easily scalable.

Objective

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) seeks to provide responsive, best value supplies of related materials consistently to our Department of War (DoW) customers and other DoW  stakeholders. DLA continually investigates a variety of critical minerals for more efficient means of their production, opport…

AI Summary

DLA seeks an API-driven platform that integrates existing enterprise systems to create a unified digital thread with mission-aware decision intelligence. This capability will accelerate logistics decisions, strengthen supply chain resilience, and optimize ROI across DLA's hybrid cloud environment while maintaining security compliance.

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) seeks to enhance logistics readiness, decision advantage, and enterprise efficiency in alignment with the DLA Strategic Plan’s priorities of mission readiness, supply chain resilience, data-driven decision-making, and enterprise integration. DLA operates within a complex, hybrid, and multi-cloud environment that includes AWS GovCloud-hosted process mining capabilities such as Celonis, Google Cloud-based enterprise data fabric services, Oracle Cloud enterprise applications (including AMPS), private Operational Technology (OT) environments secured under Zero Trust principles, and core business systems such as SAP S/4HANA. Enterprise IT operations and governance are enabled through ServiceNow, including IT Service Management (ITSM) and Strategic Portfolio Management (SPM), with additional automation supported by UiPath. In alignment with the DLA J6 CIO Digital Strategy and “Connected IT” campaign, which prioritizes integration of existing capabilities, elimination of duplicative IT investments, and use of accredited enterprise services, DLA seeks a lightweight, federated platform implemented as an API-driven capability layer that connects and operationalizes current systems rather than replacing them. The objective is to enable an Enterprise Digital Thread with embedded, mission-aware decision intelligence that correlates process, cyber, and enterprise data to provide predictive and prescriptive, human-in-the-loop decision support. This capability will improve decision speed, enhance mission impact awareness, strengthen supply chain resilience, and maximize return on investment (ROI) across DLA’s enterprise IT portfolio while operating within DoW IL4/IL5 and FedRAMP authorized environments. Proposed efforts shall demonstrate technical feasibility at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6-9, with emphasis on interoperability, scalability, and secure integration across federated environments.

Objective

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) seeks to enhance logistics readiness, decision advantage, and enterprise efficiency in alignment with the DLA Strategic Plan’s priorities of mission readiness, supply chain resilience, data-driven decision-making, and enterprise integration. DLA operates within a c…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks novel hypergolic propellants with reduced volatility and toxicity for missile defense systems. The goal is developing safer, cost-effective fuel alternatives that maintain rapid ignition performance while minimizing hazardous vapor emissions compared to traditional formulations.

This topic seeks novel hypergolic fuels featuring significantly reduced volatility and toxicity compared to traditional hypergolic fuels while maintaining rapid, reliable ignition characteristics essential for missile defense applications. Current DACS systems typically use highly toxic and volatile fuels which, while offering excellent ignition delays and specific impulse, present significant handling and safety concerns. The program desires to explore cost-effective alternative fuels that offer reduced vapor pressures while simultaneously minimizing ignition delays to ensure adequate DACS responsiveness in missile defense scenarios. Candidate solutions might include, but are not limited to: ionic liquids, reaction-driven amines, boranes, and others. Hypergolic fuel blends are also an acceptable alternative so long as they could be justified in terms of miscibility and maintained performance across operational temperature ranges.

Objective

Develop and demonstrate low-volatility, reduced-toxicity hypergolic fuels suitable for Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) thrusters while maintaining critical performance metrics when paired with standard oxidizers.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks game-theoretic AI that generates superior military courses of action by computing Nash equilibria in large-scale strategic games. The solution must overcome current planning bottlenecks through interpretable, scalable algorithms operable on modest computing resources while outperforming expert human planners.

Modern military operations are characterized by an astronomically large strategy space, where adversaries’ actions are interdependent. Current planning processes are human-intensive, slow, and explore only a "vanishingly small fraction" of possible COAs for both Blue and Red forces. This creates significant operational risk and leaves unexploited opportunities on the table. Standard machine learning approaches are often insufficient as they require massive, labeled datasets that do not exist for future conflicts and frequently produce "black box" solutions that are difficult for commanders to trust, interpret, or certify.   This topic seeks solutions founded in computational game theory capable of computing approximate Nash equilibria in large-scale, zero-sum, imperfect-information games. The desired AI engine will use self-play within high-fidelity simulation environments to learn and refine strategies for both Blue and Red sides simultaneously, without requiring a priori assumptions about adversary tactics.   The proposed solution must demonstrate the following critical attributes: Dominant Performance: The system must generate COAs that are demonstrably superior to those developed by expert human planners in complex military scenarios. The ability to defeat experienced red teams is the paramount evaluation criterion. Human-Interpretability: Generated strategies must be transparent and understandable, composed of modular, doctrinally-relevant planning components (i.e., not a monolithic neural network). Commanders must be able to understand the "why" behind the AI's recommendations. Scalability: The AI architecture must be capable of scaling from tactical engagements (e.g., individual flight combat) to operational-level scenarios involving thousands of assets across multiple domains (air, sea, land) and extended time horizons. Computational Efficiency: The solution should operate effectively on modest computational footprints (e.g., single or small-cluster CPU-based workstations), avoiding reliance on cost-prohibitive, large-scale GPU clusters for its core training and inference loops. "Anytime" Capability: The algorithm must be capable of providing a valid, usable strategy at any point during its computation cycle, with the solution quality improving as more time and resources are allocated.   FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

Objective

To develop and demonstrate a mature, scalable, and robust game-theoretic Artificial Intelligence (AI) engine capable of generating and executing novel, optimized courses of action (COAs) in complex, multi-domain, imperfect-information wargaming environments. The objective is to field a capability th…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks wide-field optical tracking systems to monitor the growing density of low-earth orbit constellations and debris that overwhelm current radar infrastructure. Solutions must use commercial components and software-defined sensors capable of tracking objects from 10cm to 1cm in size with near-real-time data dissemination.

The increasing density of pLEO constellations and orbital debris presents a significant challenge to the current SSN infrastructure, including radar fences with limited beam count and power. This effort seeks to develop wide-field optical tracking systems capable of addressing these challenges. The solution must integrate COTS components on a COTS bus to ensure low-cost deployment, rapid iteration, and replenishment. Software-defined sensors adaptable to multiple missions and on-board processing capabilities are encouraged. The system should also support extensibility to other missions via side-car payloads or on-orbit firmware/software upgrades. The system, if deployed at a scale identified by the proposer, must meet the following requirements:   Threshold Requirements: Track 95% of objects larger than 1U (10x10 cm² optical cross-section, Lambertian surface at 20% reflectivity) at least once per orbit. Track 95% of unknown objects as small as 1 cm across once every two weeks. Goal Requirements: Track 99% of unknown objects larger than 1U at least twice per orbit. Track 95% of all objects as small as 1 cm once every two weeks. Track a cued object down to 1 cm with a maximum latency of 40 minutes, with no requirements for simultaneous tracks. Dissemination: All detections must be injected into the Unified Data Library (UDL) database within 5 minutes of passing through the last Field of Regard of the sensor platform. Feasibility Documentation: Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

Objective

Develop and deploy scalable, cost-effective, and rapidly iterated wide-field optical tracking solutions to supplement the Space Surveillance Network (SSN) for high-density proliferated Low Earth Orbit (pLEO) constellations and debris. The solution must meet stringent tracking, latency, and dissemina…

AI Summary

The Department of War seeks a secure, AI-powered SaaS platform capable of automating documentation workflows for classified materials up to TS/SCI. The solution will modernize manual processes for creating Security Classification Guides and compliance plans, reducing human error and accelerating decision-making across government operations.

The Department of War currently relies on manual, time-consuming, and resource-intensive processes for creating and managing critical documentation such as Security Classification Guides (SCGs), Program Protection Plans (PPPs), and OPSEC plans. These legacy workflows are prone to human error, leading to inconsistencies, over-classification, and potential security vulnerabilities. This administrative burden directly impacts mission agility and the speed of decision-making. The emergence of secure, fine-tuned Large Language Models (LLMs) presents a transformative opportunity to modernize these processes. The DoW seeks a mature, AI-driven Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform capable of operating in both unclassified and classified environments (up to Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information - TS/SCI). This platform will serve as a foundational toolkit for government personnel, augmenting their ability to generate, review, and manage complex documentation with unprecedented speed and accuracy. The chosen performer will be expected to deliver a solution that is not just a theoretical model but a demonstrable, scalable, and secure platform ready for rapid prototyping and operational testing. This solicitation is for a Direct to Phase II (D2P2) award. Offerors are expected to have already achieved significant technical maturity and be prepared to demonstrate existing capabilities upon request. FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

Objective

To develop and demonstrate a secure, enterprise-grade Generative AI platform to automate and enhance critical administrative, security, and compliance workflows within the Department of War (DoW). This effort seeks to dramatically reduce manual effort, improve the quality and speed of documentation,…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks software and firmware modifications to enable heterogeneous RF systems to communicate and synchronize across distributed networks. The proposer will collaborate with a designated defense contractor to integrate multifunction capabilities into software-defined radio platforms, requiring comprehensive feasibility documentation including technical reports, test data, and performance results.

The proposer will need to work closely with a DoW-DIRECTED defense contractor to implement SW/FW modifications to the target SDR to enable heterogeneous multifunction RF systems to communicate and synchronize activities. The specific defense contractor will be identified to the proposer upon notification of selection for the D2P2 award. FEASIBILITY DOCUMENTATION: Documentation should include all relevant information including, but not limited to: technical reports, test data, prototype designs/models, and performance goals/results.

Objective

Successful Joint Operations executed by the U.S. Department of War (DoW) rely on tight coordination, synchronization, and tactical communication across multiple service components and platforms. The Joint Force faces real-time communication and coordination challenges between modern, more flexible s…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks an AI and Augmented Reality system to enhance advanced manufacturing operations for military components. The solution must guide operators through production lifecycles in austere environments while maintaining precision, with modular design enabling rapid deployment and minimal training.

This effort will explore, design, and evaluate an innovative manufacturing capability that combines Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) to enhance advanced additive and subtractive machining operations. As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications that enable rapid deployment, ease of use, and minimal training burden while maintaining the precision and repeatability required for air, ground, and maritime component production. The research will focus on integrating AI-driven advanced manufacturing expertise with AR-based work instructions to guide operators through the full lifecycle of production—from setup and calibration to machining, quality assurance, and certification. The system shall leverage modular, transportable platforms suitable for forward-deployed or austere environments, with consideration for integration into both manned and autonomous (e.g., bipedal robotic) operations in future phases. Proposers shall detail specification for key system attributes, including but not limited to: AI Capability: Real-time adaptive guidance, error detection, and optimization based on operator input and environmental factors. AR Work Instructions: Interactive overlays for step-by-step tasks, safety checks, and certification pathways. Machining Integration: Compatibility with advanced additive and subtractive manufacturing processes using multiple metal and composite materials. Deployment and Sustainment: Footprint, power requirements, portability, and environmental resilience. Cybersecurity and Data Management: Secure handling of operational data, digital twin integration, and compliance with DoD cybersecurity requirements.

Objective

The objective of this topic is to conduct applied research to an innovative capability for a deployable, and user-friendly manufacturing system that integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Augmented Reality (AR) to enhance advanced additive and subtractive machining capabilities. This system wil…

AI Summary

This SBIR seeks passive SLAM technology enabling small unmanned aircraft to autonomously navigate complex environments using onboard sensors and compute. The solution must identify obstacles, plan dynamic routes to static or moving targets, and maintain accuracy without external connectivity or cloud support.

This topic seeks innovative research and development efforts that allow Special Operations Soldiers to employ autonomously navigating Group 1 UAS in complex, cluttered, and unstructured environments. OWA UAS often have some level of autonomous terminal guidance when a target is verified and approved for targeting. Basic UAS terminal guidance capabilities typically utilize computer vision to develop bounding boxes on a selected target and navigate directly to that location. Utilizing a designated target as a destination, the UAS developed under this SBIR must be capable of navigating to the target location/object by building a model of its current position relative to a designated target, identifying obstacles between the platform and the target, then developing and executing a navigation plan to the target while dynamically adjusting with changes in surrounding environment. As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications on the following key system attributes: Must be capable of utilizing passive sensors to perceive local environment. Must be capable of identifying, analyzing, and selecting suitable navigation paths for UAS through unstructured dynamic environments. UAS should be capable of navigating to both static and dynamic targets. UAS should be capable of loop-closures to correct INS/SLAM drift. All data, compute, and sensors utilized for navigation must be organic to aircraft (i.e. no cloud compute or reach-back authorized). Must be Modular Open System Approach (MOSA)/Open software compatible. Must use industry standard flight controls (Mavlink, Ardupilot, etc).

Objective

The objective of this topic is to develop applied research toward an innovative capability that will provide kinetic One-Way Attack (OWA) Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) enhanced terminal guidance capability on approach to target by passively perceiving and navigating through complex, cluttered, and un…

AI Summary

This feasibility study seeks compact LiDAR system designs for portable underwater vehicles operating in shallow coastal waters. The effort addresses the need for safe, affordable, and easily integrated payloads that enable rapid deployment and standardized data collection in littoral environments.

As a part of this feasibility study, the proposers shall address all viable overall system design options with respective specifications is needed to both understand the safe operation, maintenance and general use of LiDAR based payloads for man portable UUV systems from Fast Attack Craft (FAC). Further, standardized collection methods and accessible UUV frame integration is needed. This effort seeks to secure designs and rapidly procurable, safe to operate and relatively low cost & compact systems to this end, particularly for shallow water and littoral operational depths (nominally optimal for surf zone to VSW depths, but functional to 200m).

Objective

The objective of this topic is to develop applied research towards a low cost and compact Laser interferometric Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system for rapid clearance of undersea terrain and checkout by divers and vessel operators. To this end, this effort is developing a compact, low-cost LiDAR p…

AI Summary

This STTR seeks development of low-cost phased array antennas for small unmanned aircraft swarms to enable collaborative jamming capabilities. The technology addresses the need for affordable, scalable, and resilient jamming solutions by coordinating multiple sUAS units to focus jamming energy on specific targets more effectively than traditional high-power systems.

This topic addresses the need for affordable and scalable jamming capabilities leveraging sUAS swarms. Instead of focusing on individual, high-power jammers, this STTR seeks to develop a collaborative jamming approach using multiple sUAS equipped with low-cost phased array antennas.   The key innovation is the development of a low-cost phased array antenna system that can be precisely controlled to focus jamming energy on specific targets. By coordinating the signals from multiple sUAS in a swarm, the effective jamming power can be significantly increased. The focus on low to medium-sized swarms (3-7 units) allows for manageable coordination and control strategies.   This approach offers several advantages over traditional jamming techniques, including: Increased jamming effectiveness through beamforming. Improved resilience through redundancy. Reduced risk of detection and counter-attack. Lower cost compared to high-power jamming systems.

Objective

Develop a low-cost, phased array antenna system and associated signal processing techniques for collaborative jamming applications using small to medium-sized sUAS swarms (3-7 units).

AI Summary

White Sands Missile Range seeks to complete development of a mobile L-Band Linear Accelerator that fits in a freight container for transport and standalone operation. This capability will enable combined environment testing by integrating with other test systems for survivability and vulnerability assessments.

White Sands Missile Range's (WSMR's) Survivability, Vulnerability and Assessment Directorate (SVAD) received major components of a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) from Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center with the intention of rebuilding it to be a smaller LINAC with a 20 MeV output that could be housed in a freight container for ease of transport and positioning. This effort was put on hold, but a mobile LINAC is still needed to operate as a standalone capability and synchronized with other test capabilities for combined environment testing.

Objective

The program goal under the offered D2P2 topic is to design and build a transportable L-Band Linear Accelerator (LINAC) with a 20 MeV output. This LINAC would be used as both a standalone nuclear test environment and with other test capabilities to create a combined nuclear test environment for micro…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks a detection and counter-UAS system for military convoys on domestic roads, capable of identifying threatening drone operations and disrupting them through electronic warfare or precision kinetic means while minimizing civilian risk in populated areas.

The United States Military and its US government interagency partners have requirements to move personnel and equipment on public roads that are at risk of surveillance and improvised attacks by drones. The open nature of our free society provides anonymity to our fellow citizens and potential bad actors that makes UAS defense along public roads very challenging. The legal and beneficial use of UAS complicates the problem that all UAS in vicinity of US military operations in the homeland cannot be determined to be a threat by their presence alone. Convoys require a system that can identify UAS operations that either follow, or are on a course for physical intercept, of the vehicles in the convoy and have the ability to disrupt the flight of that UAS to ensure safe passage. While kinetic (Mass striking Mass) solutions are legal they must be a final measure and must be employed in a way that minimizes risk to US citizens in vicinity of the convoy. This is especially difficult when a bad actor uses the cover of an urban or suburban area to employ their system to maximize clutter to sensors and complicate the engagement process (Rules of engagement and establishment of intent) of kinetic solutions. The system is expected to detect UAS around the convoy and establish their trajectories with respect to the convoy. Human teaming with the detection system should be intuitive and cognitively low effort, similar to an alarm system in a security operations center. This system should have the ability to interfere with the UAS operations using Electronic Warfare or other non-kinetic means and have the ability to employ kinetic effectors that produce effects that have a low probability of collateral damage. The system can require its own vehicle for proof of concept but must have accommodations to be an add-on to an existing vehicle in the convoy. Proposals can be partial solutions to this problem but must have detailed and reasonable explanations on what would be expected of the portions of the systems that are not within the scope of their proposal. The system must be Software Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) compliant so the requirement owners can add or complement successful offeror’s solutions with GOTS software and hardware. The Medusa GOTS MOSA/SOSA government reference architecture (GRA) is the planned target and will be available to any performer, post selection, if requested. The GRA uses the Open Mission Networking Interface (OMNI) and the New Architecture Technology Server (NATS) publish and subscribe message system, and could be integrated with a core part of the offeror’s development. Making some assumptions or reserving some details for how the GRA will be part of the effort is acceptable as few additional details will be provided prior to contract award. Proposals will not be selected if they are closed and fully proprietary, or are architectures that do not allow other technologies development by the US government and their contractors to be added to the system.

Objective

Develop a system that minimizes the threat a UAS poses to military convoys in non-permissive environments that have the most restrictive rules of engagement.

AI Summary

The DAF seeks a portable, context-aware authentication framework enabling secure identity validation and Zero Trust access control in austere, disconnected environments. This technology addresses operational gaps where traditional CAC and PKI systems fail during expeditionary missions lacking reliable connectivity to centralized identity servers.

Modern DAF operations are increasingly defined by mobility, expeditionary reach, and the necessity to operate in contested or infrastructure-sparse environments. Traditional authentication methods—such as Common Access Card (CAC) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)—were designed for stationary personnel within predictable, fixed-network environments. In multi-domain and joint logistics corridors, these legacy dependencies create operational friction, introduce significant access delays, and present systemic cyber vulnerabilities when connectivity to centralized identity providers is degraded or unavailable. To address this critical gap, the DAF seeks the development of Project ATOM (Authentication on the Move): a secure, context-aware, and portable authentication framework capable of validating identity and mission-relevant authorization at the tactical edge. This solution must function independently of static, cloud-based infrastructure, enabling continuous, Zero Trust access control that moves with the warfighter or autonomous asset. The solution may demonstrate capabilities such as - Context-Aware Authentication: Utilizing multi-modal inputs—such as biometric, behavioral, and situational environmental data—to verify identity and authorization levels dynamically; - Disconnected Operation: Maintaining robust authentication and access control protocols in Denied, Degraded, Intermittent, and Limited (DDIL) environments without reliance on persistent backhaul to a central identity server; - Cross-Domain Portability: Ensuring seamless identity and access validation across diverse transportation domains, including Air, Land, Sea, and Space; - Zero Trust Integration: Implementing granular, policy-based access control that adapts to real-time changes in the mission environment and potential adversarial activity; - Resilient Infrastructure: Withstanding harsh expeditionary conditions, including electromagnetic interference (EMI) and limited hardware resources, while maintaining low-latency performance; - Scalable Interoperability: Integrating with existing Department of War (DoW) identity standards and mission-critical applications to minimize friction while maximizing security posture. This topic seeks technologies capable of enabling decentralized identity validation that support modernization efforts outlined in the DAF Zero Trust Strategy and the broader objective of resilient, multi-domain operations.

Objective

The objective of this Phase I effort is to design and demonstrate the feasibility of a dynamic, portable, and context-aware authentication framework prototype for secure identity and mission-authorization in austere, disconnected, or high-mobility environments. This Phase I effort will focus on defi…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks scalable, wide-field-of-view electro-optical payloads to enhance space domain awareness in the geostationary belt. The technology would address current surveillance gaps by enabling persistent, autonomous monitoring of space objects with broader coverage and faster response times than existing systems.

As adversary space capabilities continue to advance and challenge established patterns of behavior, the need to improve awareness of activities in the geostationary (GEO) belt has become increasingly critical. Current limitations in the ability to detect, characterize, and respond to unexpected maneuvers in GEO create risk of operational surprise. The space domain is becoming more congested and contested, driving demand for persistent, wide-area surveillance capabilities that can autonomously identify, track, and provide timely alerts on objects of interest. Existing space-based Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capabilities, such as the joint NRO–USSF SILENTBARKER mission, provide a reference point for current approaches to GEO object detection, custody, and indications and warning. While these capabilities demonstrate important advances in SDA, evolving threats, mission complexity, and operational demands highlight the need to explore additional sensing concepts that could enhance persistence, responsiveness, and resilience beyond the current state of the art. There is a recognized gap in the availability of scalable, wide-field-of-view sensing solutions capable of providing continuous, wide-area GEO surveillance. Current architectures rely on a limited number of sensors optimized for focused observation, which can constrain coverage, revisit rates, and responsiveness. Commercially derived Wide-Field-of-View (WFOV) Electro-Optical (EO) payloads offer the potential to complement existing SDA approaches by enabling broader search volumes, higher revisit rates, and increased autonomy while leveraging commercial innovation to improve affordability and scalability. This topic seeks innovative WFOV EO payload concepts that can support autonomous GEO-belt search, dynamic tasking, and generation of actionable data suitable for integration with complementary SDA and reconnaissance systems. Solutions should consider the operational challenges of GEO surveillance, including solar exclusion constraints, thermal and radiation environments, platform integration considerations, and compatibility with existing command, control, and data-processing architectures. The long-term vision of this topic is to inform future space-based SDA architectures by identifying viable, commercially derived WFOV EO payload approaches that could enhance persistent GEO surveillance, reduce decision timelines, and improve the ability to maintain custody of critical space objects in support of U.S. Space Force mission needs. References to existing SDA systems are provided for contextual understanding only and do not imply a commitment to transition or acquisition.

Objective

The objective of this Phase I effort is to conduct a feasibility study of a commercially derived, Wide-Field-of-View (WFOV) Electro-Optical (EO) payload concept to support persistent Space Domain Awareness (SDA) in the geostationary (GEO) belt. Existing SDA capabilities, such as the joint National R…

AI Summary

ASCN seeks an autonomous logistics platform combining robotics, AI, and digital twin technology to modernize manual space cargo operations. The solution will optimize rapid cargo handling from warehouse to orbit while enhancing speed, precision, and resilience across contested supply chains.

The SJMC is envisioned as the central logistics hub for DoW space operations, supporting rapid deployment, sustainment, and agile mobility. Current cargo handling and logistics processes are heavily manual, lack real-time adaptability, and are not optimized for space-based supply chains or contested logistics environments. To address these capability gaps, the ASCN will deliver a hardware-centric logistics automation platform built around Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). The ASCN will combine autonomous robotics, intelligent decision-support, and digital twin technology to enable full-spectrum cargo management from warehouse to orbital interface while increasing speed, precision, and resilience. This effort will lay the foundation for a modular, scalable space logistics infrastructure aligned with U.S. Space Force (USSF) sustainment strategy. Key capabilities include: Autonomous Cargo Handling & Transport Optimization Robotic forklifts, pallet movers, and modular AMRs for autonomous loading/unloading  Sensor-rich navigation systems for dynamic obstacle avoidance and precision docking  Fleet coordination for multi-robot cargo movement across terrestrial and orbital logistics node AI-Driven Logistics Command & ControlAI used for task orchestration, load prioritization, and mission responsiveness Integration with the Spaceport of the Future's Common Operating Picture (SPOF COP) Machine Learning for Mission AdaptabilityPredictive analytics for resource positioning and contingency planning  Visibility and orchestration across all classes of supply Commercial & Military Logistics InteroperabilityCompatibility with U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), Space Systems Command (SSC), Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), and commercial launch providers Joint protocol development for space cargo integration Cybersecure & Resilient Robotics ArchitectureBlockchain-secured logistics tracking and tamper prevention Quantum-resistant algorithms and Zero Trust cybersecurity framework This effort will lay the foundation for a future-ready, modular, and scalable space logistics infrastructure, aligned with U.S. Space Force (USSF) sustainment strategy and capable of supporting both terrestrial and orbital cargo networks.

Objective

The objective of this effort is to develop and assess the feasibility of an Autonomous Space Cargo Network (ASCN) centered on Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) to modernize cargo handling and logistics operations at the Space Joint Movement Complex (SJMC) and across the Department of War's (DoW) space…

AI Summary

CHORD seeks to develop advanced debriefing tools with explainable AI analytics to help military operators understand autonomous crewed and remotely piloted aircraft decisions during post-mission review, addressing current gaps in transparency and trust for human-machine teaming in tactical operations.

Mission debriefing for manned and remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) and crewed aircraft in military operations is currently conducted manually by warfighters. This typically involves verbal communication and classroom-style discussions, with little to no AI or software assistance for reflecting on missions, identifying lessons learned, or pinpointing areas for improvement. As pilots are the primary tactical decision-makers, verbal communication sessions are essential for eliciting and understanding their decision-making processes. As teams of ACPs begin making tactical decisions with a high level of autonomy, it is unknown what information needs to be logged during mission and how that information should be displayed so that the warfighter can audit and understand after mission debriefing, what decisions, tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) the autonomous systems acted on. This topic looks to advance existing debriefing tools for replaying mission execution and enhance them with additional functionality targeting debriefing of autonomous ACPs. A secondary focus of this topic is to identify data input requirements from autonomy that would be necessary for support debriefing of autonomy. Modern methods for autonomous decision-making tend to employ black-box deep learning algorithms with limited transparency, leading to lack of trust and assurance that autonomous agent decisions comply with the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC). XAI (Explainable Artificial Intelligence) is actively researching techniques to make black box models more understandable while other areas are using more transparent symbolic methods that are rooted in explicit rules to perform reasoning and problem-solving. An ACP will likely include a combination of inherently explainable and low transparency algorithms for different decision-making processes. Information needs for debriefing that will be identified in this topic should guide autonomy development with regards to autonomy logging/reporting for debriefing and algorithm practicality. A consideration for DP2 participation is the demonstration of an existing debriefing tool that the proposer has developed that is used in military operations or that it is being developed under a recognized US DoD program. This will allow for a solid foundation for which CHORD can build upon that focuses specifically on debriefing of human machine teaming for ACPs. An expectation of common debriefing functionality such as data playback, a digital map display, timeline, event logs, and data visualization of vehicle fuel, health, and status will be necessary for DP2 consideration. It is not essential that the existing debriefing tool has been applied to unmanned systems, and debriefing tools in non-air or crewed vehicle domains will be considered. While logging and video playback of ACP mission execution are critical components of debriefing functionality, they will likely be inadequate for truly understanding ACP decision-making. Software analytics, AI tools, and novel HMI designs will be necessary to answer key questions, such as: What tactical decisions did the ACP make? When were these decisions made? What was the rationale or considerations behind the ACP's decisions? As ACPs assume greater responsibility in tactical decision-making, it is crucial to conduct research and develop software tools that enable warfighters to understand and trust these autonomous systems. Core Research Questions:  What types of information must be logged and exchanged between ACPs and the warfighter during post-mission debriefing to support transparency and trust in autonomous operations?  Do current government reference architectures and standards adequately support the information exchange requirements for debriefing ACP teams?  How should information from ACPs be structured and visualized within the HMI to align with warfighter cognitive models and situational awareness needs?  What HMI features for debriefing best support comprehension of ACP autonomy decision chains, contextual reasoning, and deviations from expected behavior?  What types of software or AI-enabled analytics tools would be most useful to summarize, explain, and visualize autonomous decision-making by ACPs?

Objective

Future Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACPs) will introduce AI-enabled uncrewed aircraft into the fleet. These platforms will assume significant tactical decision-making responsibilities and operate alongside traditional crewed aircraft. This paradigm shift complicates knowledge elicitation for …

AI Summary

This RFP seeks a three-axis stabilized, sealed infrared search and track payload for small tactical UAS to detect and track airborne threats. The system addresses performance degradation from uncompensated aircraft motion by providing integrated gimbal stabilization and sensor data processing.

Small UAS (sUAS) pose a threat to both deployed U.S. forces and military bases. Traditional methods for detection, tracking and identification include acoustics, radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) cameras, which tend to be deployed from ground sites [1]. Airborne sensors can supplement these ground systems by providing forward-deployed surveillance and/or terrain relief. Current state-of-the-art (SoA) IRST sensors have been developed for use on large platforms (e.g., fighters, bombers, group 4/5 UAS) to support detection and tracking against similar large platforms. Similar design concepts would be applicable for group 2/3 UAS, but at significantly reduced C-SWaP. Many commercial-of-the-shelf (COTS) gimbals exist for group 2/3 UAS that are equipped with IR payloads, typically midwave infrared (MWIR) or uncooled longwave infrared cameras (LWIR) [2]. However, the IR payloads are typically optimized for surface surveillance missions, which prioritize spatial resolution and generally only provide two axis pointing & stabilization [3]. The third axis, roll, is uncompensated and dependent on how steady the UAS can fly. Uncompensated roll will degrade IRST performance and increase computational burden to remove motion artifacts. This effort seeks a three-axis stabilized sealed IRST payload to handle directional pointing and pitch/roll/yaw stabilization suitable for use on Group 2/3 UAS. Sealed refers to an IP54 rating to keep the optomechanical pointing/stabilization and sensor protected against dust and water [4]. The sealed system shall compensate for UAV motion due to gusts, turbulence, and platform jitter. This effort will include both hardware and software approaches to provide a complete pointing and stabilization sealed payload package. An off-the-shelf gimbal or mature prototype is expected to be used as a starting point for the design. The sealed system shall provide the raw sensor data at 60 frames per second over Ethernet, command and control of the sensor, provide accurate line-of-sight pointing data, and on-gimbal inertial measurement. Key performance parameters for the system include: Size: 700 cubic inches (T), 500 cubic inches (O)Weight: 14 lbs (T), 7 lbs (O)Power: 200 watts(T), 25 watts(O)Cost: 150K(T), 100K (O)Additional specs to be provided after award Government provided sensor payload parameters: Sensor Power: 12 wattsSensor Size (nominal): 4”x4”x7”, where 7” is along optical axis. Sensor Weight: 2lbs

Objective

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), …

AI Summary

The Air Force seeks production scaling of a high-purity ceramic powder (>99.9% pure) manufactured via reverse strike co-precipitation and hydrothermal synthesis. This effort requires demonstrating a 20-fold increase in production rate beyond laboratory capabilities while maintaining established quality control standards.

The Air Force has developed a route to a ceramic powder of interest. The Air Force has demonstrated within its laboratories that the process can be scaled to 1 kg batches. Quality control for powder production has been established via ICP-OES/ICP-MS, XRD, SEM cross section of powder green bodies, and TEM with EDS analysis. ICP has been used to analyze for trace impurities and stoichiometric purity. SEM and TEM are used to analyze secondary phase content. At the laboratory scale the powder is at >99.9% pure of contaminates and is within 99% of the desired stoichiometry. Secondary phase presence is <3% by XRD with feature sizes of secondary phases are required to be <100 nm in particle size and <3% present. Powder production involves reverse strike co-precipitation and hydrothermal synthesis. Traditional solid phase synthesis methods are not suitable for a direct to phase II effort. The powder has shown interesting properties in trial studies, and scale up studies need to be conducted. Production rate needs to be demonstrated significantly beyond what our lab is equipped to do (20x increase in rate).

Objective

The topic seeks to enable the scale up for the production of a ceramic powder with a production rate of at least one (1) metric ton per year. The powder composition to be specified by the Air Force must retain a high level of homogeneity and purity.

AI Summary

This RFP seeks bulk growth of InAsP crystal, a ternary alloy semiconductor critical for fabricating high-quality infrared detectors in the short-wave spectral range. The Air Force requires domestic production capacity for this material, as no commercial suppliers currently offer it.

Infrared detectors, especially for the short wave infrared spectral range are fabricated by growing semiconductor alloy thin films having different compositions on high quality substrates. The substrate needs to be of high electronic quality, i.e., it must be of high compositional uniformity, possess very few defects, and ideally be lattice matched with the thin films. Moreover, the optical quality of the substrate needs to be high, i.e., they must transmit light at the desired wavelength range with as little absorption or scattering as possible. Ternary alloy semiconductors, due to their flexible optical transmission ranges, are ideal for infrared detector applications. However, there are no commercial suppliers for bulk ternary alloy InAsP and it is important for the Air Force to have a domestic supply source for such a material.

Objective

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), …

AI Summary

This RFP seeks a rapid assessment system to evaluate low back and neck impairment using objective, biopsychosocial metrics for military personnel. The solution addresses the high prevalence of spine disorders in Air Force critical roles by enabling early intervention and improving operational readiness.

Low Back and Neck pain are the costliest and most disabling health conditions in the world and are a pervasive and persistent challenge across the U.S. Armed Forces. Spine disorders affect up to 19.5% of military service members annually and represent the leading cause of disability discharge, medical evacuation, and limited duty days (over 25 million each year), severely undermining operational readiness.   In the Air Force, operationally critical service members such as pilots, air crew, pararescue jumpers, security forces, and maintenance personnel who are exposed to highly repetitive and often, highly physical loading are especially vulnerable. Due to the often chronic and debilitating nature of low back and neck pain, prevalence of these health conditions in veterans is in excess of 40% and is strongly linked with depression, long-term disability, compromised quality of life, and increased opioid usage. The etiology of neck and back pain, disorders, and injuries is complex and multifactorial, driven by physical, psychological, and social (biopsychosocial) determinants that shape risk of onset, progression, and recovery. These biopsychosocial interactions produce heterogeneous clinical presentations, complicating prevention, diagnosis, and management. Additionally, risk factors that uniquely impact military service members such as combat training under heavy loads, prolonged and frequent use of head-mounted gear and body armor, extended static postures, high G-force exposure, poor equipment ergonomics, whole-body vibration, extreme psychosocial stress, sleep deprivation, as well as cultural norms and advancement incentives that can hinder reporting. This combination of factors can create a perfect storm for complex, disabling, and long-lasting (chronic) low back and neck disorders.   Given the complex nature of these disorders, the current best practice of relying on subjective, self-reported pain and function to guide decisions is insufficient. To better prevent low back and neck pain and intervene early when these disorders are most manageable, medical and operational support teams need objective, reliable, and actionable spine health metrics to help inform training, injury prevention, and clinical treatment decision making. Since the commercial marketplace currently lacks solutions in this space, this topic aims to help develop and transition to market a system that empowers service members in both operational and medical units to rapidly assess multiple biopsychosocial elements of low back and neck impairment including an objective assessment of functional impairment. Development of such a solution that can be deployed at scale will be critical to help decrease the economic and operational burden of low back and neck pain on the USAF and DoW and ultimately improve operational readiness, mission performance, and patient outcomes.

Objective

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), …

AI Summary

Project Able Baker seeks a Sea-Based Recovery Station framework that repurposes decommissioned offshore oil platforms into landing pads for heavy-lift launch vehicles. This solution addresses costly platform removal while enhancing launch cadence, reducing environmental disruption, and providing distributed recovery infrastructure for U.S. Space Force operations.

This project seeks to enhance launch cadence and operational flexibility by exploring innovative maritime recovery options. Simultaneously, hundreds of offshore oil and gas platforms in federally controlled waters are reaching the end of their operational lifecycle. Traditional decommissioning and full-removal processes are capital-intensive, costing upwards of $1.6 billion per platform, and often cause significant disruption to established marine ecosystems. Project Able Baker seeks to address these challenges by developing a Sea-Based Recovery Station (SBRS) framework—a modular, resilient, and environmentally conscious solution that repurposes existing offshore infrastructure into landing pads for heavy-lift launch vehicles. This approach aims to provide the U.S. Space Force (USSF) and its commercial partners with a distributed network of recovery sites that enhance launch cadence, reduce sonic-boom exposure, and leverage existing maritime infrastructure to lower operational costs. The solution should be capable of:  - Structural Engineering & Load Management: Designing reinforcement protocols to accommodate the specific plume, vibration, and high-intensity point-load dynamics of                   modern heavy-lift stages (e.g., Falcon 9, Vulcan, and New Glenn class). - Maritime Infrastructure Integration: Utilizing existing topside platforms for station-keeping, power, and logistics support to minimize the need for new construction. - Environmental & Ecosystem Preservation: Aligning with "Rigs-to-Reefs" precedents to ensure that the repurposing process preserves established artificial reef habitats; integrating continuous monitoring systems (e.g., pH, turbidity, and high-fidelity imaging) to ensure ecological health. - Advanced Safety & Operational Control: Implementing passive/active flame deflection, remote fire suppression systems, and precision navigation aids for autonomous landing guidance. - Rapid Turnaround Logistics: Establishing a framework for deck-framework for rapid deck-turnaround logistics, utilizing integrated barge or Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) systems to move boosters from the landing pad to transit vessels. - Regulatory & Strategic Alignment: Navigating the regulatory landscape for federal-waters operations to streamline permitting and avoid the catastrophic decommissioning costs associated with full platform removal. This topic seeks a robust framework that delivers structural resilience, cost-avoidance, and environmental stewardship. By repurposing legacy offshore assets, Project Able Baker will directly support the USSF's objective for Space Access while providing a scalable, sustainable model for future maritime launch recovery.

Objective

The objective of this Phase I effort is to design and demonstrate the feasibility of a Sea-Based Recovery Station (SBRS) prototype capable of repurposing decommissioned offshore oil platforms into resilient landing pads for reusable launch-vehicle boosters. The solution should include structural mod…

AI Summary

The Air Force seeks a data-driven decision-support platform that integrates geographic, political, environmental, and security data to identify optimal global sites for terrestrial and maritime spaceport operations. This system will standardize site evaluation across multiple domains, enabling commanders to make informed strategic decisions for expanding resilient launch infrastructure.

This project seeks to broaden global launch opportunities and enhance operational flexibility for the Department of the Air Force (DAF) and its allies. Current site-selection processes are often siloed, manual, and lack the multi-domain granularity required to assess the complex interplay between geographic, political, and logistical variables at operational planning scale. To ensure persistent access to space and support expeditionary launch capabilities, there is a critical need for a centralized, data-driven decision-support framework. To address this gap, the DAF seeks the development of Project Celestial: an integrated survey platform and decision-support framework capable of identifying, evaluating, and ranking global sites for terrestrial and maritime spaceport operations. The system must synthesize multiple data streams to provide commanders and planners with high-confidence assessments for both military and dual-use infrastructure development. The solution should be capable of: - Comprehensive Data Synthesis: Integrating multi-domain data, including: - Geographic & Logistical: Latitude, proximity to the equator, downrange hazard modeling, range safety, and existing site infrastructure (port access, fuel, power, and road/rail connectivity). - Political & Legal: Host nation stability, international treaty constraints, regulatory compliance, and overflight rights. - Maritime Specifics: Analysis of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ), sea state variance, and proximity to major commercial shipping lanes. - Environmental & Societal: Population density, ecological protection zones, and indigenous land rights impact. - Security & Threat Modeling: Assessing site resilience in contested environments, the ability to secure critical launch technology, and evaluating dual-use risk profiles. - Collaboration Analytics: Identifying opportunities for allied and commercial partnerships based on local aerospace presence, commercial provider accessibility, and international agreement frameworks. - Dynamic Decision Support: Providing a customizable interface that allows users to weigh different criteria based on mission-specific requirements (e.g., prioritizing "rapid response" versus "long-term sustainment"). - Scalability: Maintaining accuracy and reliability when transitioning from localized survey datasets to global, theater-level analyses. This topic seeks a robust decision-support framework that enables objective, data-driven site analysis. By standardizing the evaluation process, Project Celestial will directly support the DAF's objective to expand space access and enhance the resilience of the nation's launch infrastructure through informed, strategic site selection.

Objective

The objective of this Phase I effort is to design and demonstrate the feasibility of an integrated survey platform and decision-support framework—Project Celestial—to identify, evaluate, and rank optimal global locations for future terrestrial and maritime spaceports. The framework should model and …

AI Summary

The U.S. Space Force seeks a voice-enabled AI assistant for hands-free command and control of autonomous logistics vehicles in challenging environments. This edge-deployed solution must operate independently without cloud connectivity while functioning reliably in high-noise, contested settings where traditional graphical interfaces are impractical.

Logistics operations in contested, expeditionary, and spaceport environments present significant challenges for the management of autonomous systems. C2 interfaces rely heavily on graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and persistent network connectivity, both of which are vulnerabilities in Denied, Degraded, Intermittent, and Limited (DDIL) environments. These traditional interfaces often increase operator cognitive burden and limit situational awareness, particularly in high-noise conditions where manual input devices are impractical. To address this gap, the U.S. Space Force (USSF) seeks the development of a secure, edge-deployable, voice-enabled AI assistant to provide hands-free C2 for autonomous logistics systems, specifically Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs). This capability will allow operators to maintain operational tempo by interacting with autonomous systems through intuitive, natural language-based interfaces that function independently of cloud-based processing. The solution should demonstrate capabilities such as:     - Resilient Voice Processing: Speech-to-text and intent-recognition models specifically optimized for high-noise expeditionary environments     - Edge-Native Operation: Ability to function in a disconnected or denied, degraded, or disrupted (D3) environment without reliance on persistent external or cloud connectivity     - System Interoperability: Compatibility with existing autonomous middleware and UGV control architectures;     - Secure C2 Implementation: Providing a secure, authenticated voice-command interface that minimizes latency in critical decision-making loops;     - Ruggedized Performance: Maintaining stability across hardware configurations typically found in forward-deployed or austere spaceport locations;     - Human-Machine Teaming: Enabling personnel to operate robotic assets hands-free, thereby improving safety and throughput during rapid cargo movements. Proposed solutions should demonstrate the ability to interpret operator intent and execute C2 commands under operationally realistic conditions. This topic seeks technologies that bridge the gap between advanced autonomy and human-centric control, directly supporting the USSF mission objectives for agile and resilient logistics operations in contested environments.

Objective

The objective of this Phase I effort is to design and demonstrate the feasibility of a secure, edge-deployable, voice-enabled Artificial Intelligence (AI) assistant capable of providing a hands-free Command and Control (C2) of autonomous logistics systems. This Phase I effort will focus on validatin…

AI Summary

The Air Force seeks Runtime Assured Autonomy (RTAA) technology to continuously monitor and safeguard autonomous unmanned systems when radio communications fail or operator workload is saturated. RTAA detects autonomy faults and activates recovery protocols to ensure safe flight and mission success in complex battle scenarios.

Several of the Air Force’s Operational Imperatives call for unmanned platforms to support manned platforms. The Advanced Battle Management System, Moving Target Engagement, Tactical Air Dominance and Global Strike imperatives all call for less expensive, attritable uncrewed platforms to aid in executing complex battle missions. These uncrewed systems cannot always be guaranteed to be controlled by remote human operators due to loss of radio communications or saturated operator workload. Full autonomy will need to fill the gap when human command/control cannot. To address future Air Force tactical and strategic needs, an increasing number of advanced systems with intelligent autonomy are being envisioned. Intelligent autonomy is central to systems involving a wide range of advanced adaptation, reconfiguration, autonomous decision making and contingency management.   Assured autonomy is the requirement that the autonomy operates safely and correctly under all circumstances and mission scenarios. RTAA fulfills this Air Force technology need, providing continuous monitoring/mitigation of autonomy functions to deliver required assurances of safe flight and correct mission execution. There are considerable challenges to developing a working RTAA system. The two key functions of the RTAA are:   Fault detection & isolation: The RTAA system must be able to determine if the autonomy is correctly producing COAs and other commands, which is especially difficult if agnostic of the autonomy function details. Developing strategies that can indirectly detect and isolate autonomy design faults in dynamic environments will be key to developing the RTAA system. Faults within the autonomy will need to be determined through the effects those faults have on the platform’s safety, performance, and/or mission effectiveness. RTAA fault determination may come from comparing the current actions of the autonomy with nominal functional or performance requirements (e.g., what defines correct behavior), sanity checks, rubrics, rule sets, etc. Mitigation response: If the RTAA determines that errors in the design of the autonomy functions are adversely affecting flight and mission decisions, it must then activate proper recovery or reversionary protocols. This may include first commanding the vehicle to a failsafe loiter point, then clearing functional states and restarting the autonomy functions. As a last resort, the RTAA may activate return-to base or ditch procedures. If available, the RTAA may switch to simpler, reversionary autonomy functions that can continue the mission either temporarily until the advanced autonomy is back online, or to mission completion, if capable.   The two main functional levels of an RTAA system are:   Platform/fleet safety: Here, the RTAA typically treats the autonomy functions as a black box and simply monitors the platform and fleet for safety violations. The RTAA will monitor, for example, 1) flight envelope parameters such as angle of attack, angular rates, g-loading, etc., determining if their values remain within prescribed limits, 2) flight corridor values, determining if the vehicles are within their prescribed airspace and location for path deconfliction, and 3) path commands generated by the autonomy functions to determine if the vehicle’s maneuvering capabilities can fly the commanded path. If it is determined that safety violations are ensuing, (and assuming no hardware faults or other contingencies are causing unsafe conditions), then the RTAA will deactivate the autonomy functions and activate simpler reversionary controllers or procedures designed to bring the vehicle/fleet back to a safe state. Autonomy function performance: Here, the RTAA is monitoring for correct and/or optimal performance of the autonomy itself. The RTAA must determine if the autonomy functions are, for example, 1) generating correct COAs, including safe, optimal and deconflicted paths, 2) commanding proper asset allocation and reassignment of platform roles, if necessary (e.g., send the vehicle with the most fuel to the furthest mission point, or use the fastest vehicle for the most time-critical objective, etc.), 3) replanning mission objectives accordingly due to unforeseen changes in the environment (inclement weather, observed adversarial threats, etc.), changes in the commander’s intent (uploaded changes to mission objectives, etc.) or other unforeseen contingencies, and 4) addressing other relevant mission aspects to maximize mission effectiveness.

Objective

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), …

AI Summary

The Air Force seeks intelligent autonomy capabilities for aircraft to operate effectively in threat-rich environments while managing uncertainty and enabling collaborative teaming. This addresses the need for autonomous systems to make rapid, informed decisions and achieve air superiority through risk-aware behaviors and multi-vehicle coordination.

To address future Air Force strategic needs, an increasing number of advanced systems with intelligent autonomy are being envisioned. Intelligent autonomy is central to systems involving advanced automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, adaptive control architectures, and heightened performance compared to the state of the art. A critical need for enabling these future autonomous systems are behaviors that can be leveraged by higher level cognition or mission managers to achieve collaborative mission execution for ACPs. The question that needs to be asked is, “Provided that systems have all the data available to them from sensors and mission objectives, what is it that the systems actually have to do to be successful in their mission?” It is clear that the sensing and available of data is a critical requirement for making informed decisions, this may entail a deep investigation on coupling behaviors with sensing capability; but, the focus of this effort is more toward the thinking and action than the sensing of the sense-think-act process flow. Near term objectives of this work are to invest in basic and applied research to building on the accomplished R&D, address specific identified technical challenges and tools for solving Intelligent Threat Aware Autonomy (ITA2) objectives. Far term objectives involve advanced technology development to constrict ITA2 avionics packages, perform real-time hardware and flight testing of ITA2 products, manufacture vehicles capable of performing ITA2 or hardware that interfaces with current ACPs, and flight test on Air Force / DoD commercial platforms.   Intelligent Threat Aware Autonomy (ITA2) is aimed at finding ways to take measured risks and enable autonomous systems to achieve air superiority in threat laden environments. Multiple facets of this project are to be investigated including: ways of measuring risk from ensuing threats, leveraging own-ship weapon models for capturing targets of interest, avoiding adversarial threats, addressing limited communication range and navigational error, quantifying mutual support and types of mutual support, and measures of force through collaboration and teaming. Lastly, the addressing of uncertainty of own-ship(s) states, target vehicle(s) states, operations boundaries, target vehicle capability, and other forms of uncertainties such as communication delay and environmental disturbances (wind) are important for obtaining reliable and robust behaviors.   Vehicle control is performed by providing the vehicles desired aim-points or waypoint plans in three-dimensional space. The inner loop control systems of aircraft is out of scope of this work; rather, interfacing with current / existing vehicle control technologies is expected though the use of aim-points. This reduces the burden of developing the necessary vehicle control commands such as normal acceleration, roll-rate, and throttle. Furthermore, it leverages the most state of the art methods for performing vehicle control and AI enabling technologies.

Objective

The objectives are to do: 1. Weapon Engagement Zone (WEZ) Modeling: Develop models to represent the area where a weapon can effectively engage targets. This involves considering factors like weapon range, vehicle movement, and threat trajectories, to provide risk measures for path planning and weapo…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks a low-cost, modular small unmanned aircraft system with standardized payload interfaces designed for rapid electronic warfare deployment. The platform must support ground launch, accommodate 3-10 unit swarms, carry 5+ lb payloads for 45+ minutes at 100+ km range to enable flexible, quickly-reconfigurable missions.

The effective deployment of electronic warfare (EW) capabilities relies on agile and adaptable platforms that can rapidly integrate and deploy a variety of payloads. Current sUAS platforms often lack the modularity and flexibility required to support the rapid evolution of EW technology. This topic addresses the need for a low-cost, versatile sUAS platform specifically designed to accommodate modular payloads and designed for ground launch, enabling rapid deployment in diverse operational environments. Proposals may consider either modifying an existing, commercially available sUAS platform to meet the requirements of this topic, or developing a new platform optimized for modularity and ground launch. The key innovation is the development of a sUAS platform (either new or modified) with a standardized payload interface that allows for rapid integration and swapping of different payloads. This modular design, combined with ground launch capability, will enable: Rapid Payload Integration: Simplified and standardized interfaces for connecting power, data, and control signals to the payload. Payload Agnosticism: The ability to accommodate a wide range of payload sizes, weights, and power requirements. Enhanced Mission Flexibility: The ability to quickly reconfigure the sUAS for different missions by swapping payloads. Simplified Logistics: Reduced maintenance and support costs through standardized components and interfaces. Ground Launch Compatibility: Robust design specifically for compatibility with ground launch systems, enabling rapid deployment from ground-based platforms, even in challenging terrain. The sUAS platform should be optimized for operation in low to medium sized swarms (3-10 units), allowing for coordinated EW effects. The design should also prioritize low cost, ease of use, reliability, and the following Key Performance Parameters (KPPs): Payload Capacity: Minimum of 5 lbs Endurance: Minimum flight time of 45 minutes with a 5 lb payload. Range: Minimum operational range of 100 kilometers. Ground Launch System Compatibility: Compatible with a readily available ground launch system (e.g., pneumatic launcher, rail system). Deployment Time: Capable of being launched and operational within 5 minutes of arrival at the launch site.

Objective

Develop a low-cost, versatile sUAS platform (Group 3 and below) specifically designed to accommodate modular payloads and capable of ground launch. This platform should enable agile electronic warfare applications in swarms. This topic is intended to develop a standalone solution that can be integra…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks commercial space and ground-based sensing and analytics to enhance real-time tactical awareness for warfighters. Solutions should integrate data collection, analysis, and delivery capabilities to address gaps in responsiveness and automation that current systems lack.

This topic seeks to rapidly field non-missile-warning, space and/or ground enabled sensing and analytic capabilities that enhance warfighter decision speed. Space Force Components and Combatant Commands increasingly depend on commercially derived, space and/or ground enabled insights, but existing systems lack the responsiveness, automation, and sensing diversity needed for real-time tactical awareness. Adversary advancements and dynamic operational environments have outpaced traditional acquisition approaches, creating critical gaps that Tactical Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Tracking (TacSRT) is working to solve.   Aligned with the Space Force Commercial Space Strategy, this topic solicits innovative, unclassified concepts across the sensing-to-analysis continuum including data collection, phenomenology exploitation, analytic fusion, and information delivery that can deliver meaningful operational utility within one year. Proposed solutions may introduce new sensing or analytic methods or significantly advance existing commercial approaches. An initial operational capability (IOC) is defined as a functional prototype that provides testable outputs directly to operators.   Solutions may include hardware, software, analytic tools, sensing concepts, data-processing architectures, or integrated workflows. Stand-alone capabilities and service-based models are acceptable, and performers may leverage commercial space-as-a-service or existing commercial space infrastructure. Approaches must deliver timely, operationally relevant insights without requiring government development of new space hardware.   Representative in-scope areas include novel phenomenology sensing, automated exploitation pipelines, multi-sensor fusion, change detection, activity characterization, material or environmental signature analysis, deep maritime or littoral monitoring, rapid-revisit analytics, unconventional sensing approaches, space-to-air or space-to-ground tipping and cueing, high-cadence environmental insight, incorporation of AI/ML, and fusion of structured or unstructured data. Out-of-scope areas include missile warning/tracking, kinetic interceptors, satellite buses, and launch vehicles. The overarching intent is to operationalize commercial capabilities rapidly and ensure warfighters receive meaningful, unique insights at the speed of need. The intent of this effort is not focused on Operational Planning Product (OPP) generation through the Global Data Marketplace but targets a new innovative solution (view Reference 1 for additional context).

Objective

The objective of this Phase I effort is to identify, assess, and demonstrate the feasibility of novel, non-missile-warning space and/or ground enabled sensing and analytic capabilities that can deliver rapid, commercially derived insights with meaningful operational utility. The effort seeks concept…

AI Summary

This effort seeks to modernize two flash x-ray machines through research and development, improving their output, operational throughput, and maintenance requirements. Performers will advance cold/warm x-ray source modification and pulse width reduction technologies from TRL 6 to TRL 8 capability.

The CXS small flash x-ray and the PI 538 flash x-ray machines are both currently available for repurposing. Both machines will require removal to an offsite location for assessment. While assessment methodology may include rebuilding and operating to establish a baseline, the intent is not simply to return the machines to operation in their original form. Modification to the output and operational throughput (e.g., number of operations per day and reduced maintenance periods) of both machines will require research and development.Technical capability for modification of the CXS into a cold/warm x-ray source exists at a TRL of 6. Performers should be at TRL 8 with this technology upon completion of Phase II. The technology for shortening of the PI 538 pulse width is also considered TRL 6 and should be TRL 8 upon completion of Phase II. The TRL for PI 538 modification portion of the effort to reduce maintenance downtime and make its use in combined environments more readily available, is a moving target as state-of-the-art materials and methodologies continue to evolve.

Objective

The program goal under the offered D2P2 topic is to design and build two new flash x-ray test capabilities. To reduce cost, both would be built on non-functioning capability platforms (CXS and PI 538 flash x-ray) with completely new output profiles. The CXS would be redesigned as a cold x-ray source…

AI Summary

The DoD seeks an AI framework generating high-fidelity, multimodal synthetic scenes for training autonomous systems and AI/ML models in realistic environments. The solution must integrate geospatial data with RF and EO/IR sensor simulations, ensuring spatial-temporal consistency and compatibility with existing tools like FLITES and Xpatch.

The DoD requires large-scale, high-fidelity background scenes to advance autonomous systems and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) capabilities. These scenes are critical for providing realistic, context-rich environments that enable AI/ML and/or autonomous systems to learn, adapt, and perform effectively in real-world, dynamic conditions. A critical component of this effort is the ability to generate dynamic, high-fidelity background scenes that realistically model operational environments. Unlike traditional synthetic data generation, which often focuses on isolated sensor outputs, scene generation must create a coherent, interactive world where autonomous agents can navigate, perceive, and process imagery based on their movement and decision-making.   This presents several challenges. First, scene generation requires accurate modeling of complex environmental factors such as terrain variation, urban structures, vegetation, weather conditions, and electromagnetic propagation—all of which impact sensor performance. Additionally, ensuring spatial and temporal consistency across multimodal data (e.g., RF and EO/IR) is far more demanding than simply generating independent synthetic datasets. Autonomous systems rely on their ability to interpret changes in the environment dynamically, requiring realistic physics-based interactions between sensors and the scene. Further, aligning RF and EO/IR perspectives within the same scenario for sensor fusion introduces an added layer of complexity, demanding precise calibration of sensor viewpoints, occlusions, and atmospheric effects.   To accurately model such complex environments, scene generation tools must not only produce synthetic RF and EO/IR data but also ensure that these representations align with real-world sensor measurements. When the underlying environment is well-characterized, scene generation tools can generate multimodal imagery alongside ground truth labels, providing ready-made datasets for AI/ML models and autonomous agents. However, their effectiveness is often constrained by the availability of accurate models and measured databases that capture the necessary radiometric and electromagnetic characteristics of the environment. Addressing these limitations requires the development of software that integrates geospatial data, time-of-day, seasonal variations, measured databases, and land cover data to generate detailed representations of the environment. Furthermore, this software must support standardized scene formats compatible with existing simulation tools such as FLITES (EO/IR) and Xpatch (RF), allowing for flexible resolution and fidelity adjustments based on scenario requirements. Finally, a structured approach should be proposed to refine synthetic scene renderings as real-world measurements become available, improving realism and scene fidelity over time.

Objective

The objective is to develop a capability for generating geo-specific, sensor-independent scenes for multimodal (RF and EO/IR) synthetic data generation by leveraging geo-spatial information, time-of-day, seasonal data, and measured databases, overcoming limitations in existing models and radiometric…

AI Summary

This RFP seeks autonomous leader-follower UAS formation technology enabling single operators to manage multiple coordinated aircraft while reducing workload and enhancing mission resilience. Solutions should incorporate AI-based control, resilient mesh communications, and adaptive algorithms for contested and GPS-denied environments.

The increasing complexity and scale of modern military operations demand unmanned aerial systems (UAS) capable of operating autonomously and collaboratively. Current UAS deployments often require dedicated operators for each platform, resulting in high personnel costs and increased cognitive burden on the warfighter. There is a critical need for UAS technologies that can significantly reduce operator workload while enhancing mission effectiveness and resilience, particularly in contested environments where communication and control links may be degraded or disrupted. The ability for a single pilot to effectively manage multiple autonomous UAS in a coordinated formation, with built-in redundancy and adaptive control, represents a significant advancement in UAS capabilities. Offerors are encouraged to explore innovative approaches to autonomous UAS formation control, incorporating advanced AI algorithms, resilient communication networks (e.g., Neuron Mesh Networks), and robust sensor fusion techniques. The proposed solution should address challenges related to maintaining formation integrity, adapting to dynamic environments, and operating in GPS-denied or contested environments. Innovative approaches to stasis mode are encouraged, optimizing power consumption while maintaining situational awareness. Development should include:  AI-based Autonomous Control Algorithms: For leader-follower formation flight, obstacle avoidance, and target engagement.  Resilient Communication Network: A robust and secure communication network enabling seamless data sharing and control within the UAS formation (potentially leveraging Neuron Mesh Network technologies).  Synchronized Terminal Guidance: Algorithms for coordinated approach and landing of multiple UAS at designated targets.  Stasis Mode: An energy-efficient mode allowing follower UAS to maintain position and situational awareness while minimizing power consumption.  Target Designation System: A user-friendly interface for the pilot to designate targets for autonomous execution by follower units.  Pilot Reassignment Capability: A mechanism for automatic and seamless transfer of lead UAS control to a follower unit in case of failure or loss of communication

Objective

The objective of this topic is to develop and demonstrate an affordable robust and reliable autonomous leader-follower UAS formation capability, enabling a single First-Person View (FPV) pilot to command and control multiple UAS effectively. This system should incorporate: seamless pilot reassignmen…