Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies Research and Development Grant

The Multi-Spectral Sensing Technologies R&D (MuSTeR) Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), administered by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Sensors Directorate, Optical and Radio Frequency and Detection Division (AFRL/RYM), invites white paper submissions for research in multi-spectral sensing technologies. This BAA, labeled as FA8650-21-S-1180 and currently on its third amendment, outlines a two-step application process with initial white papers due by May 20, 2026. Full proposals will be solicited only from applicants whose white papers meet the Air Force's interest. The program focuses on advancing technologies and expanding knowledge in thirteen specific research areas within multi-band radio frequency and electro-optical sensing. These areas include multiband multifunction arrays, adaptive radar, laser radar imaging, passive RF sensing, waveform design, sensor integration, and a range of electro-optic and infrared technologies, including space-based sensing. The research supports the development of capabilities vital to persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational effectiveness in air and space. Funding for this initiative totals $250 million, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $10 million and durations of 12 to 48 months. Awards will primarily be cost-reimbursement type contracts, specifically Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF), though other contract types including grants and cooperative agreements may be considered. The funding is structured across multiple fiscal years and subject to budget fluctuations. The solicitation is unrestricted, encouraging participation from all entities including small businesses and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), although foreign participation is restricted to subcontracting in basic research only. Cost-sharing is optional, and proposals that include foreign participation or export-controlled elements must adhere to strict compliance and disclosure protocols. Applicants must follow a detailed submission format for white papers and, if selected, a more extensive proposal submission. Key submission criteria include the technical innovation of the proposal, alignment with program objectives, proposed deliverables, and a rough order of magnitude cost. Proposals are evaluated on technical merit, cost realism, and potential for transitioning the research into Air Force applications. Feedback and award decisions will typically follow within 30 working days post submission. For inquiries, technical questions should be directed to LaMar Westbrook (lamar.westbrook.1@us.af.mil), and contracting questions to Jamie Jones-Brooks (jamie.jones-brooks@us.af.mil) or Travis White (travis.white.17@us.af.mil). The program encourages early submission due to security procedures at the receiving facility that might delay mail or carrier deliveries.

The application process involves a two-step solicitation, with detailed instructions and requirements provided in various attachments available on the SAM.gov website. These documents include a proposal adequacy checklist, payment instructions, and a guide to formatting technical reports.