DoD SBIR X20.3

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Sensors, Air Platform

OBJECTIVE:

The objective of this topic is to identify and demonstrate dual-industry technologies, with both defense and commercial applications, of materials and manufacturing processes that can be applied to attritable Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) and low cost space systems. The specific systems and subsystems of interest for this topic include space systems, subsystems, and components AND UAS structures, engines, and sensors. This topic applies to companies capable of completing a feasibility study and demonstrating validated concepts by manufacturing a relevant prototype(s) in an accelerated Phase II schedule. This topic assumes offerors have already completed early stage research and development independent of the SBIR or STTR Phase I processes and are prepared to demonstrate prototype manufacturing capabilities at TRL/MRL 5-6 during Phase II execution.

DESCRIPTION:

Legacy and contemporary Air Force systems technologies exhibit high per-unit cost, assume long-term use, exquisite performance and air breathing systems rely heavily on lifetime sustainment and maintenance support. Increasing production, operation, and sustainment systems costs impedes the acquisition of new Air Force technology. Additionally, the Air Force has experienced an increasing time-to-market for fielded systems.Commercially available manufacturing materials and processes are preferred to reduce time-to-market, blunt soaring acquisition costs of complicated, monolithic weapon systems and identify materials and manufacturing processes supporting a range of system manufacturing rates.

PHASE I:

D2P2 Topic

PHASE II:

Mature the manufacturing process and apply it to the fabrication of a DoD prototype system or major system component. A successful Phase II will 1) make material/process improvements as needed to apply the proposed technology relevant DoD systems'/components' manufacture cost and manufacturing cycle time of the proposed system/component ; (3)Specify in detail how the technology prototype solves an Air Force need and how it can be scaled to meet future anticipated rate production needs; (4) Specify in detail how the manufacturing technology can be applied to a commercial consumer need and how it can be scaled to meet that need

PHASE III:

Phase III efforts will focus on transitioning the developed technology to a working commercial or warfighter solution.

KEYWORDS: manufacturing; low cost components; sensors;

References:

Baur, Jeffery W., et al. "Experimental Mechanics for Multifunctional Composites and Next Generation UAVs." Mechanics of Composite and Multi-functional Materials, Volume 6. Springer, Cham, 2018. 215-221.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Information Systems, Weapons, Air Platform, Battlespace

OBJECTIVE:

This is an AF Direct to Phase 2 Pitch Day Topic. A Phase II may be awarded for a maximum period of 27 months and $1,000,000.

DESCRIPTION:

The AF is seeking to identify innovative Digital Engineering (DE) technologies and processes to field weapon systems more rapidly. These DE innovations include, but are not limited to, virtual work environments, rapid prototyping and demonstration, infrastructure operability, big data management, analysis, and visualization, linking disparate data sources and systems,digital thread and digital twin, 3D printing/additive manufacturing, advancedarchitecture tools, advanced logistics tools, 2D to 3D conversion/validation, augmented/virtual reality,cyber security, decision analysis, model based systems engineering, model based engineering, software visualization, and cloud/high performance computing (HPC) cost effective infrastructure.The technical areas discussed are not all inclusive and this focus area is designed to be an open topic for any technologies that may impact present or future Air Force missions.In addition, awardees of this topic area will be invited to attend the Air Force Digital Engineering Pitch Day, where companies, along with an identified Air Force transition partner, will be able to pitch their concepts and transition plans for a Phase II Award.

In support of this Air Force Digital Engineering Pitch Day, collider events will be held to facilitate understanding of PEO and private industry challenges and to resolve capability gaps. Finalist chosen will be given sample/mock data sets to demonstrate proof of conceptual design of proposed solutions.

PHASE I:

D2P2

PHASE II:

The Direct to Phase II contract period of performance is up to 27 months, including 24 months for technical performance and three months for reporting. The award value will not exceed $1M. Companies with solutions requiring further prototyping and demonstration prior to a SBIR Phase III award may apply. Awards will provide additional funds to conduct further R/R&D effort on solutions related to digital engineering for Air Force applications. These Phase II awards are intended to provide a path to commercialization, not the final step for the proposed solution. Matching funds from non-SBIR Federal and non-Federal sources are not mandatory. Cost-sharing is also not required. However, cost share or match serves as evidence of commercial potential in accordance with 15 USC 638(e)(4)(B)(ii).

PHASE III:

Phase III efforts will focus on transitioning the developed technology to a working commercial or warfighter solution.

KEYWORDS: digital engineering; digital twin; digital thread; big data; architecture;

References:

Department of Defense. Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Systems Engineering. (2018). Digital Engineering Strategy. Washington, DC. https://fas.org/man/eprint/digeng-2018.pdf

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Electronics, Sensors, Battlespace

OBJECTIVE:

This topic seeks projects that apply one or more focus areas for aircrew training systems:

1. Virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, extended reality gaming tools applied to aircrew simulation and training
2. Gaming technologies and gamification concepts applied to simulation and training
3. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics applied to simulation training
4. High-fidelity, visual, and physics-based effects within the training simulator
5. Cloud computing applied to the development, deployment, and operation of simulation training
6. Secure remote training and instruction
7. Multi-player, multi-aircraft, multi-role networked training simulation environment
8. Advanced computer generated entities within training simulation and synthetic environments
9. Securing commodity hardware and software for military training needs
10. Data analytics applied to the collection and synthesis of design criteria data for simulator development and concurrency modifications

Together, these focus areas can be considered part of the Lightweight Simulator Ecosystem (LSE) - a simulator system based on commodity hardware, providing a low-cost, modular, potentially deployable training system for aircrew positions.These training systems are targeted at the simple end of the training spectrum, yet still strives to incorporate as much capability and fidelity as possible, starting simply and adding capability as experiments and development continues.

This topic seeks projects that apply one or more focus areas for aircrew training systems:

• Virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, extended reality gaming tools applied to aircrew simulation and training
• Gaming technologies and gamification concepts applied to simulation and training
• Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics applied to simulation training
• High-fidelity, visual, and physics-based effects within the training simulator
• Cloud computing applied to the development, deployment, and operation of simulation training
• Secure remote training and instruction
• Multi-player, multi-aircraft, multi-role networked training simulation environment
• Advanced computer generated entities within training simulation and synthetic environments
• Securing commodity hardware and software for military training needs
• Data analytics applied to the collection and synthesis of design criteria data for simulator development and concurrency modifications

Together, these focus areas can be considered part of the Lightweight Simulator Ecosystem (LSE) - a simulator system based on commodity hardware, providing a low-cost, modular, potentially deployable training system for aircrew positions.These training systems are targeted at the simple end of the training spectrum, yet still strives to incorporate as much capability and fidelity as possible, starting simply and adding capability as experiments and development continues.

DESCRIPTION:

Simulators Pitch Day 2020 Projects target using Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) gaming/training hardware components and gaming software, along the lines of the Pilot Training Next and other prototype trainers.The modular nature of the design should allow for swap out of components, switching between fixed screens or head-mounted displays for example.The projects shall be designed to be extended and refined over time, starting with a minimum viable product, and adding/improving features and functionality in rapid, initiative releases. This concept is described as the Lightweight Simulator Ecosystem (LSE), an ecosystem as it incorporates individual devices as well as the network in which these are developed and operate.

• Gaming industry hardware, software, and learning tools
• DevSecOps and software factory techniques like Platform One
• Modular Open Systems Architecture approach for building and maintaining a training/simulator system
• Reusable digital components library, e.g. reusable 3D models of aircraft
• Service based architecture
  • Simulation Services: terrain, weather, threat entities, other virtual "players"
  • Learning Services: IOS, Debrief, performance data collection & analytics, course creation & management
  • Control/backend Services: security, authentication, data management, configuration management

Simulators Pitch Day 2020 Projects, contributing to the Lightweight Simulator Ecosystem (LSE) will be developed using current techniques, utilizing a DevSecOps and Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery model, leveraging PlatformOne and CloudOne or similar accredited infrastructures.Designed using a Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) that allows and encourages multiple vendors to participate and contribute toward the common ecosystem.Development for projects is in IL-4 (unclassified) cloud, accessible by commercial partners for development, with intent of broad participation in development. This development environment will focus on security from the start, targeting a continuous Authority to Operate (ATO).

Projects for Simulators Pitch Day 2020 shall contribute components to an open development library, so that projects of different contributors can reuse components, accelerating project development.

Configuration data of weapon system within these projects shall be parameterized, so that the development platform and resulting simulator system can remain at unclass level.Future deployments could update parameters with classified data if installed in a suitable environment.

The Simulators Pitch Day projects shall leverage data collection and analytics for feedback on user performance, providing foundation for performance based training.Of interest are projects that support and utilize virtual flight instruction, remote instruction, group instruction and assessment (multi-student to one instructor).Variations and/or expansions of the projects shall support simulations of multiple crew members on an aircraft. Projects shall operate in a single ship and multi-ship configurations, with shared content such as threats, weather, and terrain.

Multiple awards are expected under the Simulators Pitch Day 2020 topic, with targeted aircraft and crew position training dependent on a match between proposals and available resources at time of award. We anticipate development of any given project to start with basic familiarization training, then adding additional feature/functions to encompass increasing use cases.Projects can build upon existing lightweight training efforts incorporating these into the Lightweight Simulator Ecosystem.Project description will need to collect training tasks and capabilities needed, laying out a development plan for the rapid build out of capabilities in each iteration.Some sources of training tasks are RAP Checklists, Emergency Procedures, and Weapons & Tactics Training.

PHASE I:

Direct to Phase 2 Only

PHASE II:

The Direct to Phase IIs for Simulators Pitch Day shall be a multi-award, seeking projects that coordinate to integrate into the overall ecosystem, and address the Simulators Focus Areas in reference 1 below.

Goals and deliverables for Phase II are:

• Develop MOSA for Lightweight Simulator Ecosystem (LSE), building on existing prototypes of game technology based training systems.
• Establish a library of reusable code components, and a development and deployment strategy that can obtain Continuous ATO certification.
• Establish baseline assessment of COTS gaming hardware and tools for inclusion in Authority to Connect, ATO documentation.
• Build a distribution 'App Store" for lightweight simulator training content.
• Deploy one or more minimum viable product level aircrew training simulation modules within the LSE.

PHASE III:

Phase IIIs projects out of this Direct to Phase II Simulators Pitch Day 2020 Topic shall address components and training systems developed herein. We expect projects/companies awarded Direct to Phase II prototypes in this effort to move into production/sustainment under Phase III efforts. In particular, we expect the standup and sustainment of the LSE is an operational environment hosting lightweight simulator training modules developed under Simulators Pitch Day and by similar prototype efforts.Additional major deliverable of Phase III are to publish the MOSA and other standards and documentation for the development of simulator modules in the LSE.As modules and components of the LSE mature, these migrate into the Simulator Common Architecture Requirements & Standards (SCARS) Program of Record.

KEYWORDS: Simulation & Training; Aircraft Simulators; Aircrew Training; Virtual Reality; Gaming Systems, Immersion Training;

References:

1. Simulators Pitch Day Focus Areas, Attachment Simulators-Focus-Areas-D2P2-SBIR-20.3(10Jun2020).pdf

2. Modular Open Systems Approach Memo.https://www.dsp.dla.mil/Portals/26/Documents/PolicyAndGuidance/Memo-Modular_Open_Systems_Approach.pdf

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Bio Medical, Chem Bio Defense, Electronics, Ground Sea, Human Systems, Information Systems, Nuclear, Sensors, Weapons, Air Platform, Space Platforms, Battlespace

OBJECTIVE:

This is an AF Special Topic in partnership with AFWERX. Please see the above AF Special Topic instructions for further details.

Phase I awards will have a maximum of $50,000 SBIR funds. The period of performance will be three months, including two months technical effort and one month for reporting.

Phase II awards will have a maximum of $750,000 SBIR funds. The period of performance will be 15 months, including 12 months technical performance and three months for reporting.

The objective of this topic is to explore Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies not covered by other specific SBIR topics. Therefore, the topic will explore options for solutions outside the AF's current focus fields but could be useful. An additional objective is to grow the AF's industrial base. This topic is intended to reach companies capable of completing a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts under accelerated Phase I and II schedules. This topic is specifically aimed at later stage development rather than earlier stage basic science and research.

DESCRIPTION:

The AF is a large and complex organization consisting of many functions with similar counterparts in the commercial sector. The AF wishes to explore innovative technology domains with demonstrated commercial value in the non-Defense sector, i.e., through existing products/solution, in order to obtain Air Force applications, i.e., Dual-Purpose Technologies/ Solutions. It is impossible to release SBIR topics addressing every AF technological area.Therefore, this topic is seeks open ideas and technologies covering topics not currently covered.It is important potential solutions have a high probability of keeping pace with the technological change.Thus, they should be closely tied to commercial technologies and solutions supporting the solution's development. This topic is meant for non-Defense commercial solutions to innovatively adapt to meet DoD stakeholders' needs in a short timeframe, at a low cost. Solutions should be focused on the three areas listed below, meeting as many as possible.

1. Financial Sustainability - Offeror(s) should demonstrate financial sustainability in both the solution and company. This is most relevant when supported by sales to non-Defense clients and other private investment sources.
2. Defense Need - Offeror(s) should demonstrate understanding of the fit between their solution and Defense stakeholders.Offeror(s) may provide indication of a Defense 'need' by including evidence of preliminary discussions with AF stakeholders.
3. Technical/Team - The proposed approach's soundness, technical merit, and innovation and incremental progress toward fulfilling a need.It also includes proposed team members' qualifications and ability to execute the proposed approach.

In summary, proposals for this topic should demonstrate a high probability of identifying a product-market fit between an AF end user and the proposed solution through a non-Defense commercial solution's adaptation. This is initiated through proposal of a mature non-Defense technical solution and a starting point to find an AF customer.

BROAD TECHNOLOGY AREAS AND SPECIFIC USER NEEDS FOR AFWERX' 20.2 OPEN TOPICSThe topic is truly 'Open' (agnostic of industry, technology, and problem area), to facilitate streamlined customer discovery for Phase I companies.In Phase I, certain problem areas for which potential Customers and/or funding exists have already been identified. These areas, which are broken out into broad Technology Areas as described in Section 2.0.

Technology Areas - The list of Technology Areas may be found in Section 2.0 of this document.If a Technology Area is applicable, please note this on the application slide deck's first slide.Also include the Technology Area ID # in the 'Keywords' areas of the online SBIR application, e.g., TA-001.

The alignment between a proposal and a Technology Area can strengthen an application. Note, this does not change the requirement to demonstrate the Defense need as listed above, but may complement it. This also does not preclude companies looking to solve other problems not listed in the Technology Areas to submit to this topic; it is simply intended to give indications of AF special emphasis areas at this time.

PHASE I:

Conduct feasibility-related experimental or theoretical R/R&D to validate the product-market fit between the proposed solution and a potential AF stakeholder.Define a clear, immediately actionable plan for a trial with the proposed solution and the AF customer. This feasibility study should directly address:

1. Clearly identify the prime potential AF end user(s) from the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need, i.e., how it has been modified.
2. Describe integration cost and feasibility with current mission-specific products.
3. Describe if and how the demonstration can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers

The funds obligated on the resulting Phase I SBIR contracts will be used solely to conduct a thorough feasibility study. Prototypes may be developed during Phase I to better address the innovative technology's risks and potential payoffs.

PHASE II:

Continue R/R&D to develop, install, integrate and demonstrate a prototype system determined to be the most feasible solution during the Phase I feasibility study. This demonstration should focus specifically on:

1. Evaluating the proposed solution against the objectives and measurable key results defined in the Phase I feasibility study.
2. Describing in detail how the solution differs from the non-Defense commercial offering to solve the AF need and how to scale to be adopted widely, i.e., how it can be modified for scale.
3. The proposed solution's clear transition path including consideration of all affected stakeholders' inputs. This would include, but not be limited to, end users, engineering, sustainment, contracting, finance, legal, and cyber security.
4. Providing specific details about the solution's integration with other current and futuresolutions.
5. Explaining the solution's sustainability, i.e., supportability.
6. Identifying other DoD or Governmental customers interested in the solution.

PHASE III:

Some solutions may go straight from Phase I to Phase III as soon as the product-market fit is verified.The contractor will transition the adapted non-Defense commercial solution to provide expanded mission capability fora broad range of potential Governmental and civilian users and alternate mission applications.

NOTES:

1. To answer questions about this topic, AFWERX will utilize teleconferences. Details will be made available when plans are finalized.The SITIS Q&A system is available until then.
2. AF SBIR/STTR Phase I awards are FAR-based firm fixed price purchase orders.Phase II awards are either FAR-based firm fixed price contracts or Other Transactions for Prototype.Firms' SAM registrations shall reflect "Yes" for "Do you wish to bid on contracts?" to be eligible for awards.Otherwise, the proposal will not be considered for award.For more information, visit SAM.gov.
3. If already registered in SAM, ensure the CAGE code, company name, address information, DUNS numbers, etc., are correct and current.In the 15 slide deck, insert a SAM.gov screenshot including the current CAGE code, DUNS number, and business address, as well as the registration for 'All Contracts'.
4. Purchase orders shall be signed and emailed back to AFRL/SBRK at sbrk.sprints@us.af.mil within five business days of receipt or the award will not be issued.
5. The 'DoD SBIR/STTR Programs Funding Agreement Certification' form must be completed and signed at the time of *Proposal Submission* and can be found at: https://www.afsbirsttr.af.mil/Portals/60/Pages/Phase%20I-II/SBIR-STTR-Phase-I-II- Funding%20Agreement%20Certification.pdf
6. It is the offeror's responsibility to answer the SBIR Cover Sheet and 'DoD SBIR/STTR Programs Funding Agreement Certification' questions,assuring data in the proposal and SAM.gov are aligned.
7. While these are firm fixed price purchase orders, it is important companies include the cost volume in the SBIR online application with reasonable fidelity for Government Contracting Officers to determine the proposed efforts' reasonableness
8. Proposed technologies may be restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) which controls defense-related materials/services import/export, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), controlling dual use items.Offerors must review the U.S. Munitions List, https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/22/121.1, and provide a tentative determination regarding applicability to their proposed efforts.If determined applicable, a certified DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technology Agreement, must be submitted with the proposal.Information regarding the application process and instructions for form completion are found at https://www.dla.mil/HQ/LogisticsOperations/Services/JCP/DD2345Instructions/.

If subject to ITAR, involvement of foreign nationals may be restricted."Foreign National" is defined in 22 CFR 120.16 as a natural person who is neither a lawful permanent resident (8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(20)), nor a protected individual (8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)).It also includes foreign corporations, business associations, partnerships, trusts, societies, other entities/groups not incorporated/organized to do business in the United States, international organizations, foreign governments, and their agencies/subdivisions.Offerors must identify foreign national team members and provide their countries of origin, visa/work permits possessed, and Work Plan tasks assigned.Additional information may be required during negotiations to verify eligibility.Even if eligible, participation may be restricted due to U.S. Export Control Laws.NOTE: Export control compliance statements are not all-inclusive and do not remove submitters' liability to 1) comply with applicable ITAR/EAR export control restrictions or 2) inform the Government of potential export restrictions as efforts proceed.

KEYWORDS: Open, Other, Disruptive, Radical, Dual-Use, Commercial

References:

1. FitzGerald, B., Sander, A., Parziale, J. (2016). Future Foundry: A New Strategic Approach to Military- Technical Advantage. Retrieved 12 June 2018, https://www.cnas.org/publications/reports/future-foundry.

2. Blank, S. (2016). The Mission Model Canvas: An Adapted Business Model Canvas for Mission-Driven Organizations. Retrieved 12 June 2018, https://steveblank.com/2016/02/23/the-mission-model-canvas-an-adapted-business-model-canvas-for-mission-driven

3. DoD 2018 National Defense Strategy of the United States Summary, 11. Retrieved from https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/2018-National-Defense-Strategy- Summary.pdf

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Electronics, Human Systems, Information Systems, Sensors, Space Platforms, Battlespace

OBJECTIVE:

The Space and Missile Systems Center, a subordinate unit of U.S. Space Force, is the center of technical excellence for developing, acquiring, fielding and sustaining military space systems. SMC's mission is to deliver resilient and affordable space capabilities. The center is responsible for on-orbit check-out, testing, sustainment and maintenance of military satellite constellations and other Department of Defense space systems.

DESCRIPTION:

A Phase I award will be completed over three months with a maximum award of $50K. The Space Force is seeking commercial solutions to improve our portfolio of military space systems. These include, but are not limited to:

• Battle Management Command and Control (BMC2): Ability to observe, control, and assess the space domain on tactically relevant timelines to support joint, multi-domain operations. Secure interoperability and networking of multiple proliferated military and commercial 100+ satellite constellations
• Data Analytics: Ability to quickly convert data, stored in various locations and levels, to actionable information for Space Domain Awareness (SDA), Intelligence and Warning (I&W), Battle Management Command and Control (BMC2), anomaly detection and predictive analysis, etc. Distributed on-orbit automated processing of sensor data to reduce downlink requirements. Capture lessons learned, best practices, and repeated errors to inform operator training and battle plans.
• Combat Cloud: Secure communication options to create path diversity between operations center and satellite for Telemetry, Tracking, and Commanding (TT&C) and mission data. Ubiquitous satellite communication to include crosslinks, multi-purpose ground antennas, and automated data routing creating a robust data transport layer.
• Theater Delivery/Integration: Collect, process, exploit, and disseminate data to support warfighter Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), missile warning, Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT), Space Domain Awareness (SDA), weather, and Satellite Communication (SATCOM) requirements.
• Warfare Center: Enhanced, end-to-end combined architectures, infrastructure and tools that enable enterprise scheduling, testing, training, and Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) development against realistic, representative threats. Virtual environment enabling rapid architectural design studies and change analysis enabling data-driven decision making.
• Advanced Production/Scalability of Capability: Options such as non-traditional weather sensors, launch, data exploitation, and use of allied and commercial capabilities. Affordable employment of on-orbit servicing, hosted payloads, proliferation, diversification, and production on demand (both ground and on-orbit). Rapid/innovative production technologies such as additive manufacturing and enabling factors such as standardized interfaces and common components.Machine learning to accelerate analysis of SV payload/sensor integration using 3-D digital models.
• Space Logistics: Opportunities to provide mission capabilities in non-traditional orbits, including sub-orbital, very low LEO, beyond GEO, and cis-lunar space. Enable resiliency through maneuverability by opening up trade spaces for high delta-v propulsion systems and on-orbit refueling/servicing
• Space Domain Awareness:Knowledge of space objects, status, activities, threats and environments to enable courses of action.
• Space Cyber: Capabilities to enhance space system mission assurance across all segments and across highly cyber-contested system lifecycles, including cyber-secure processing architectures, and tailorable assurance modules. Interest in machine learning and Artificial Intelligence for increased system efficiency, network security monitoring, autonomy, and resilience (AIC2, etc.).
• Commercial Cyber Threat Intelligence: Capability/Options to gather and provide commercial intelligence for current and advance persistent threat (APT) on cyber vulnerabilities. Capability to provide threat agent's Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) for use in weapons system cyber risk determination.
• Adopting Commercial Technologies and Practices by the DoD:Opportunities for the DoD to leverage best commercial practices while meeting strict mission requirements and system certifications.Enable incorporation of cutting edge technologies and practices into solutions that will be accepted by United States Space Force (USSF). Leverage cradle-to-grave Digital Engineering practices to achieve greater performance and affordability in space programs and space enterprise (from requirements development, through system design, V&V, operation, and disposal.)
• Space hardware/software test: Enhancing and accelerate test data reviews through continuous aggregation of component, subsystem, and system levels test results, utilizing data analytics (AI/ML) to identify and/or predict defects, bad trends, triage test results.
• Interactions between on-orbit AI and the production environment:Integrating the results of on-orbit AI experiences and learning with the production floor to accelerate the transfer of real-world experience to responsive changes/updates to the product.
• Confidence in AI/ML:How to gain confidence that a non-deterministic, self-directed, learning system operates as intended.As AI/ML become more prevalent, how to gain incremental confidence prior to fielding.
• Weather Monitoring: Technologies to enhance existing space and terrestrial monitoring capabilities to contribute towards a future DoD proliferated weather architecture:
• Terrestrial:
• Enhanced scatterometer technology (terrestrial monitoring for high-resolution boundary layer ocean winds)
• Enhanced Microbolometer technology to contribute to future Electro-Optical Infrared (EO/IR) weather mission
• Terrestrial Weather using Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS): Use SBIR/OPIR Data Records to forecast low atmospheric turbulence in order to enhance mission operations for UAVs and aircraft.
• Space Weather:
• Enhanced Far Ultra-Violet technologies (day/night ionospheric LIMB profiles) for space environment monitoring
• Position Navigation & Timing (PNT):Devise and deliver technologies, systems, and techniques to improve PNT accuracy and availability, especially in contested environments.Specific areas of interest include
• Resilient and rapid signal acquisition and signal tracking in adverse conditions (spoofing, jamming, urban canyons, etc.)
• Ability for deployed receivers to use non-core GPS signals
• Reduced SWAP-C for resilient military PNT receiver systems
• Information assurance for use of non-GPS GNSS signals
• Advanced high-speed (100+ MSPS), high-accuracy (14 ENOB) A/D converters for GPS receivers
• Innovative multi-GNSS solutions for assured PNT applications that are resilient to jamming, spoofing, and other emerging threats, employ software defined security features, have low size, weight, and power characteristics.
• Real time signal analysis, playback, and simulation reference systems are needed to support GPS program activities.
• Satellite Communications (SATCOM):Devise and deliver technologies, systems, and techniques to improve SATCOM link resilience, throughput, and reduce user equipment.
• Missile Warning:Devise and deliver technologies, systems, and techniques to improve MW detection and tracking in contested environments.
• Operator Training: Training capabilities that enhance operator's understanding of satellite structure, terminology, fuel usage, orbital elements, command and control, etc that could be accessed and edited anywhere by multi-modal means.
• Miscellaneous: Other missions and focus areas not listed above may be the breakthrough that the Space Force needs to maintain its competitive edge - but doesn't yet realize (e.g. Advanced Telemetry, Tracking, & Commanding (TT&C) Communication, range management and logistics, etc.)

PHASE I:

Phase I efforts will focus on technical feasibility.This may include but is not limited to: analysis of existing technologies, conceptualization of new technologies, prototyping activities, user needs identification, and systems integration requirements.

PHASE II: Phase II efforts will focus on prototyping, demonstration, integration, and analysis of innovative technologies.

PHASE III:

Phase III efforts will focus on transitioning the developed technology to a working commercial or warfighter solution.

KEYWORDS: space; command and control; logistics; cyber;

References:

Chaplain, C. T. (2016). Space Acquisitions: Challenges Facing DOD as it Changes Approaches to Space Acquisitions. US Government Accountability Office Washington United States.

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Electronics, Human Systems, Sensors, Air Platform

OBJECTIVE:

The Rapid Sustainment Office mission is to leverage mature, new, and emerging technology to reduce sustainment costs and improve readiness.

DESCRIPTION:

Six lines of effort have been established to focus the office, simplified to five here:

1. Automation & Robotics
2. Advanced Manufacturing (AM)
3. Condition Based Maintenance Plus (CBM+),
4. Digital, Rapid, Austere
5. Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) for Geo-Separated Expert & Trainer One

There are eight technical focus areas that cross-cut the six lines of effort:

1. Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
2. Advanced Manufacturing
3. AR/VR/Extended Reality
4. Automation and Robotics
5. Data & Digital Environments
6. Low Observable Maintenance
7. Rapid/Austere
8. Sustainment Modernization

More detailed descriptions of each can be found at afrso.com. Pain points have been identified from users and used as examples of areas of interest, but are not limited to the following:

• Automation/Robotics:
  • Smart Tool Boxes
  • Vision systems (enabling the robot to detect, orient to and execute work)
  • Mobile automation for depot and flightline sustainment (Move the system to the platform for sustainment activities)
• Advanced Manufacturing (AM):
  • Automated reverse engineering tool with minimal required user interface
  • Part printing method for easily damaged composite components during facilitation of other maintenance (FOM) (i.e. blade seals and bull noses)
• CBM+ Tech Insertion:
  • Ideal Work Unit Code (WUC) Tool—reads narrative and useful fields (i.e. HMC, P/N, etc.), compares WUC selected with available WUC from technical manuals and suggests idealized WUC for use during maintenance forms (i.e. AFTO Form 781A) Quality Control process. Needs to be able to be run in AWS enclave (open source-ideal, Python-current utilization).
• Digital & Rapid/Austere:
  • Disposable containers for harsh or temporary environments to support Low Observable and composite repair, corrosion control, and/or AM
  • Rapidly constructed maintenance structures
  • Predictive Analytics/Algorithm Development (PAD), speech to text for various career fields
  • Components that reduce the need for large logistics tail
  • Parts-supportable high reach capability
  • Multi-platform Test Equipment
• AR/VR:
  • Method to track job status as they are performed
  • Augmented/Extended Reality for maintenance accomplishment
  • Content development enterprise (creation, testing, and life-cycle support)
  • Quick, cost effective process to convert to S1000D format to leverage into a common operating picture for Technical Order viewing at weapon system while performing maintenance
  • Geo-separated expert access while performing tasks

The technical areas highlighted above are not meant to be exhaustive as this focus area is designed to be an open topic for any Rapid Sustainment effort that may impact future Air Force missions.

PHASE I:

Phase I efforts will focus on technical feasibility.This may include but is not limited to: analysis of existing technologies, conceptualization of new technologies, prototyping activities, user needs identification, and systems integration requirements.

PHASE II: Phase II efforts will focus on prototyping, demonstration, integration, and analysis of innovative technologies.

PHASE III:

Phase III efforts will focus on transitioning the developed technology to a working commercial or warfighter solution.

KEYWORDS: Advanced manufacturing; automation; robotics; sustainment;

References:

Gill, J. C. (2019). A Feasibility Study of Additive Manufacturing for Rapid Prototyping at an Air Force Depot (Doctoral dissertation, Northcentral University).

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Materials, Bio Medical, Chem Bio Defense, Electronics, Ground Sea, Human Systems, Information Systems, Nuclear, Sensors, Weapons, Air Platform, Space Platforms, Battlespace

OBJECTIVE:

A Direct to Phase II may be awarded for a maximum period of 15 months, including 12 months technical performance and three months for reporting, at a maximum of $750,000 SBIR funds.The objective of this topic is to explore Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies not be covered by other specific SBIR topics, exploring options for solutions potentially outside the current Technology Areas but useful to the AF.This topic seeks companies with capability to complete a feasibility study and prototype validated concepts under an accelerated Phase II schedule.This topic is aimed at later stage development rather than basic science and research.

DESCRIPTION:

The Air Force is a large and complex organizations consisting of many functions with similar commercial sector counterparts.The AF is interested in exploring innovative technology domains with demonstrated clear commercial value in the non-defense sector through existing products/solutions for potential AF applications.It is impossible to cover all technology areas with SBIR topics. Thus, this topic is a call for open ideas and technologies covering topics not currently listed.It is important potential solutions have a high probability of keeping pace with technological change.They should be closely tied to commercial technologies supporting solution development.This topic is intended to identify non-Defense commercial solutions to be adapted and expanded innovatively through R/R&D to meet DoD stakeholders' needs in a short timeframe at low cost.Solutions should be focused on the three areas listed below, meeting as many as possible.

• Financial Sustainability - The offeror(s) should demonstrate financial sustainability for both the solution and the firm. The best solutions demonstrate this by sales to non-Defense clients and other private investment sources.
• Defense Need - The offeror(s) should demonstrate understanding of the fit between the solution and Defense stakeholders.The best solutions demonstrate this with a signed memo from a specific, empowered AF end-user and customer (likely not the same person) ready and willing to participate in the proposed prototype solution's trial. This should include specific objectives and measurable (quantitative) key results the proposed solution can achieve to meet AF end-user and customer needs.
• Technical/Team - The proposed approach's soundness, technical merit, and innovation and incremental progress toward fulfilling an AF need and the qualifications of the proposed Principal Investigators/Project Managers, supporting staff, and consultants to execute against the proposed approach.

Proposals should demonstrate a product-market fit between an AF end-user and the proposed R/R&D adaptation of an existing or emerging non-Defense commercial solution.This is accomplished most effectively through a proposal with a mature non-Defense technical solution and a clear understanding of its adaptation to meet an AF customer's specific need, supported by documentation from a specific motivated, empowered AF end-user and customer ready and willing to participate in the proposed prototype solution's trial.

AREAS OF DEFENSE NEED: There is a significant amount of potential AF defense end-users with interest in the topics found in Section 2.0.Offerors who believe their solution can help address a Technology Area should identify it in the application slide deck.This does not change the requirement to demonstrate the defense need as listed above. Companies with solutions to other problems not listed are also invited to submit under this topic.Technology Areas are simply intended to indicate particular AF interests at this time.

PHASE I:

This topic is intended for technology proven ready to move directly into a Phase II SBIR.Therefore, a Phase I award is not required.

PHASE II:

Proposals should include development, installation, integration and demonstration of the proposed solution prototype system. This demonstration should focus specifically on:

1. Evaluating the proposed solution against the proposed objectives and measurable key results.
2. Describing in detail how the installed solution differs from the non-defense commercial offering to solve the Air Force need, as well as how it can be scaled for wide adoption, i.e.,modified for scale.
3. Identifying the proposed solution's clear transition path, taking into account input from affected stakeholders, including but not limited to, end users, engineering, sustainment, contracting, finance, legal, and cyber security.
4. Specifying the solution's integration with other current and potential future solutions.
5. Describing the solution's sustainability, i.e., supportability.
6. Identifying other specific DoD or Governmental customers for the solution

PHASE III:

Phase II solutions may transition quickly to Phase III after the product-market fit is verified.The firm will transition the adapted non-defense commercial solution to provide expanded mission capability to a broad range of potential Government/civilian users and alternate mission applications.

NOTES:

• Due to heavy interest in this topic, the AF will not answer questions via email, except in rare cases.Teleconferences will be held to efficiently address all questions.Please monitor https://af-ventures.com/ for specific telecom details.
• SBIR solicitations result in contracts and Other Transactions for Prototype, NOT grants.Therefore, SAM.gov registration should include the answer 'YES' to the question 'Do you wish to bid on contracts?' Firms registered to compete for grants only will be ineligible for award under this topic.
• Registration in SAM is required to be eligible for award.Please verify the firm's CAGE code, company name, address information, DUNS numbers, etc., prior to submitting a proposal. In the proposal's 15-slide deck, include a screenshot from SAM.gov showing the company's CAGE, DUNS number, and current business address, with verification the firm is registered to receiver "All Contracts".It is the firm's responsibility to ensure proposal and SAM data are consistent.
• The firm is required to answer all questions on the SBIR proposal cover sheet and 'DoD SBIR/STTR Programs Funding Agreement Certification' completely and accurately.
• While awards will firm fixed price, companies must complete the cost volume in the SBIR online application in sufficient detail for the Government to determine costs fair and reasonable.
• Proposed technologies may be restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls defense-related materials/services import/export, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), controlling dual use items.Offerors must review the U.S. Munitions List, https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/22/121.1, and provide a tentative determination regarding applicability to their proposed efforts.If determined applicable, a certified DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technology Agreement, must be submitted with the proposal.Information regarding the application process and instructions for form completion are found at https://www.dla.mil/HQ/LogisticsOperations/Services/JCP/DD2345Instructions/.

If subject to ITAR, involvement of foreign nationals may be restricted."Foreign National" is defined in 22 CFR 120.16 as a natural person who is neither a lawful permanent resident (8 U.S.C. § 1101(a)(20)), nor a protected individual (8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)).It also includes foreign corporations, business associations, partnerships, trusts, societies, other entities/groups not incorporated/organized to do business in the United States, international organizations, foreign governments, and their agencies/subdivisions.Offerors must identify foreign national team members and provide their countries of origin, visa/work permits possessed, and Work Plan tasks assigned.Additional information may be required during negotiations to verify eligibility.Even if eligible, participation may be restricted due to U.S. Export Control Laws.

NOTE:Export control compliance statements are not all-inclusive and do not remove submitters' liability to 1) comply with applicable ITAR/EAR export control restrictions or 2) inform the Government of potential export restrictions as efforts proceed.

KEYWORDS: Open, Other, Disruptive, Radical, Dual-Use, Commercial

References:

1. FitzGerald, B., Sander, A., Parziale, J. (2016). Future Foundry: A New Strategic Approach to Military-Technical Advantage. Retrieved June 12, 2018: https://www.cnas.org/publications/reports/future-foundry

2. Blank, S. (2016). The Mission Model Canvas - An Adapted Business Model Canvas for Mission-Driven Organizations. Retrieved June 12, 2018: https://steveblank.com/2016/02/23/the-mission-model-canvas-an-adapted-business-model-canvas-for-mission-driven

3. US Department of Defense. (2018). 2018 National Defense Strategy of the United States Summary, 11. Retrieved from: https://www.defense.gov/Portals/1/Documents/pubs/2018-National-Defense-Strategy-Summary.pdf