Aerial Layer Networking & Transmission Technologies

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Information Directorate is soliciting white papers and proposals under the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) FA8750-23-S-7002, titled "Aerial Layer Networking & Transmission Technologies." This BAA focuses on research, development, integration, test, and evaluation of Airborne Network Connectivity and Dissemination technologies to enhance the resilience, adaptability, and efficiency of U.S. Air Force aerial network architectures. The goal is to transition from pre-planned, limited-interoperability network structures to self-forming, self-healing, and mission-responsive aerial layer networks. AFRL seeks innovative approaches to network monitoring and management, robust aerial networking, mesh networking technologies, and advanced communication protocols. This BAA is a follow-on to FA8750-19-S-7001 and aligns with AFRL’s mission to develop transformative warfighting technologies. This is an open, two-step BAA, meaning: White papers are required as initial submissions. AFRL will invite selected applicants to submit full proposals. Proposals will be accepted by invitation only after white paper evaluation. AFRL expects to award multiple contracts through procurement contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or Other Transactions (OTs) under 10 U.S.C. 4021, 4022, and 4023. Awards will typically have durations of up to 36 months, with funding amounts ranging from $1 million to $10 million per award. However, some awards may reach $49.5 million, depending on technical scope and available funding. The total BAA funding is approximately $99.5 million, allocated across FY23-FY27. Eligible applicants include private industry, small businesses, academic institutions, and nonprofit research organizations. Foreign participation is generally restricted, except for fundamental research that meets U.S. government security regulations. FFRDCs and government entities may participate only if they provide authorization letters demonstrating their eligibility. AFRL will evaluate proposals based on scientific and technical merit, relevant experience, feasibility, and cost realism. White papers and proposals should clearly define technical objectives, expected deliverables, and transition potential for operational Air Force use. Submission Deadlines: White papers are accepted until September 30, 2027, but AFRL strongly encourages submissions by specific annual dates for funding consideration: FY24 Deadline: September 15, 2024 FY25 Deadline: September 15, 2025 FY26 Deadline: September 15, 2026 FY27 Deadline: September 15, 2027 White papers must be submitted electronically via email to the Technical Point of Contact (TPOC) listed in the BAA. Full proposals, if invited, will follow a detailed submission process outlined by AFRL. For more information, contact: Program Manager: Peter Fitzgerald (peter.fitzgerald.1@us.af.mil, 315-330-2082) Contracting Officer: Amber Buckley (amber.buckley@us.af.mil, 315-330-3605)

Applicants are required to submit a detailed proposal outlining their research approach, expected outcomes, and how their project aligns with the objectives of the grant. The proposal should include a comprehensive plan for network monitoring and management, as well as strategies for developing robust aerial network solutions. Specific questions and criteria for evaluation will be based on the proposal's alignment with the grant objectives and the feasibility of the proposed solutions.