The GlobalX Innovation Joint Challenge: AI for Advancing Maritime Security is an initiative led by the Office of Naval Research Global (ONR Global), with collaboration from the Singapore Ministry of Defence. This opportunity is part of a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), specifically BAA Call N0001425SBC03, under the authority of the long-range BAA N0001425SB001. It seeks to accelerate applied research in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that address maritime scene perception challenges, ultimately enhancing both military and commercial capabilities for unmanned vessel operations in complex marine environments.
ONR Global intends to fund up to $250,000 for an initial twelve-month performance period for selected proposals, with the possibility of a second optional twelve-month phase that could bring total funding to $500,000. The program is designed to support one or more awards depending on the quality and scope of the submissions received. The grant is structured to focus on revolutionary proof-of-concept developments that could later attract follow-on support through agile acquisition mechanisms or other U.S. federal agencies.
Eligible applicants must be led by a non-U.S.-based research entity, such as an academic institution or industry organization. While U.S.-based entities can participate as part of a team, the primary awardee must be located outside of the U.S. The lead principal investigator (PI) from the non-U.S. institution will manage the application process and the grant administration. Teams should be multidisciplinary and international, and they must not be subject to U.S. sanctions or prohibitions on business with the U.S. government.
Applicants are encouraged to first submit a white paper by May 23, 2025, which will be reviewed for innovation and feasibility. Selected teams will be invited to a Proposal Pitch Day on June 5, 2025, and potentially to submit a full proposal by June 23, 2025. The application process includes a five-page white paper, a one-page quad chart, and a spreadsheet detailing the proposal’s alignment with the challenge objectives. Full proposals, whether or not a white paper was submitted, must be submitted through Grants.gov under the BAA number N0001425SBC03.
The challenge problem statement focuses on AI-powered scene perception for Unmanned Aerial/Surface/Underwater Vessels (UxVs) in maritime environments. Proposals should define realistic scene perception scenarios using sensor data and present innovative AI algorithms capable of determining operational context. Specific areas of interest include traffic management, collision avoidance, anomaly detection, and port surveillance. Deliverables must include both scenario datasets and algorithmic solutions.
Applicants can address questions via email to the ONR Global Grants Team, and additional guidance is available on the ONR Global website and Grants.gov. Key contacts include Dr. Joel Goodman, Ms. Christine Buzzel, Dr. Richard Yamada, and Mr. Keith Hines. Answers to submitted questions will be made available through a FAQ document online. The grant award is expected to be announced by June 30, 2025.
Use the specified templates for white papers
Submit in the correct formats and follow filename instructions
Comply with submission protocols (no ZIPs, no Dropbox links)
Submit questions in advance of deadlines
