Emerging Weapons, Munitions Systems, and Soldier Lethality BAA

Broad Topic

Dec 5

Executive Summary:

The U.S. Army’s Emerging Weapons and Munitions Systems & Soldier Lethality BAA invites industry and academia to submit innovative R&D concepts that advance a wide variety of critical armament technologies. The program remains open through March 17, 2026, and white papers may be submitted at any time.

Complimentary Assessment

How much funding would I receive?

The BAA does not specify individual award ceilings. Awards may be:

Contracts for basic/applied research
Other Transactions for Research or Prototypes (including cost-share requirements in some cases)
Multi-year efforts, typically up to three years, with incremental funding.

The scope and cost depend entirely on the proposed technical approach and feasibility.

What could I use the funding for?

The U.S. Army Futures Command’s Army Modernization Strategy (AMS) will catapult the U.S. Army forward to meet its enduring responsibility as part of the Joint Force to provide for the defense of the United States, and retain and secure its position by 2035 as the globally dominant land power. The end state is a modernized Army capable of conducting Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) as part of an integrated Joint Force in a single theater. The MDO concept describes how the Army will support the Joint Force in the rapid and continuous integration of all domains of warfare – land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace – to deter and prevail as we compete short of conflict, and fight and win if deterrence fails.

The modernization strategy shifts the top focus to mid-term modernization, while maintaining readiness for current operations. The six Army modernization priorities – long range precision fires, next generation combat vehicles, future vertical lift, network, air and missile defense, and soldier lethality are the pillars of our future success. Additionally, the Army will continue to reform its business processes, shifting from Industrial Age to Information Age approaches.

It is anticipated that many future technology developments will be made in conjunction with the tools of the Information Age. Modeling and Simulation (M&S) is considered as a key tool needed to bring next-generation technology to the warfighter on time, and at minimal costs.

M&S should be incorporated into technology developmental efforts whenever possible. Additionally, it is believed that concepts like the Containerized Software Applications & Orchestration, DevSecOps, Government Cloud Software Factories, Internet of Things (IOT), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cyber Security (CS) will play increasingly more prominent roles in many of the technologies that will be developed to provide the battlefield overmatch that we need, and to keep our warfighter safe.

The U.S. Army Armaments Center’s Business Interface Office is looking to identify and develop technologies for the purpose of addressing key elements of the Army’s modernization priorities. Efforts under this BAA should focus on the development and demonstration of technology for current and future generation munitions and armament systems, including Logistics. This shall be accomplished via investigative research efforts in the following general technology areas:

The Government has the need for investigations and research into the development and demonstration of advanced materials for weapons and munitions applications. This shall include advanced alloy systems, polymers and composites that can reduce parasitic weight, increase performance (lethality, range, etc.), extend shelf life, reduce item costs, conserve strategic materials, etc. Materials of interest include, but are not limited to: titanium, tantalum, tungsten, steel, nickel, aluminum, magnesium, ceramics, cermets, rare earth metals, polymer-based composites, filled composite materials and metal-matrix composites. Processes and production systems to manufacture, as well as specialized tools and methodologies for characterization, testing, and analysis of these advanced materials, are also desired.
The Government is interested in materials that will reduce weight, improve ballistics or provide protection to extend the service life of the barrels and other components of small, medium and large caliber weapon systems. These materials may be associated with coatings e.g. cold spray, plasma spray, laser deposition, high velocity oxygen fuel, laser peening, etc.; surface modification i.e. superfine finishing, or material substitutions such as ceramic, polymer and/or composite materials. The behavior of materials in service conditions such as crack initiation and growth, as well as fatigue behavior of materials is of interest. Additionally, nano-materials hold great promise either in themselves or in combination with other materials to increase the performance of the base materials. Processes, which produce unique material characteristics with a nano-size grain structure are of interest.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of unique interest at this time are materials for hypersonic applications, materials subject to high thermal stress, active countermeasure materials, frangible ammunition alloys, thermoelectric materials, high efficiency insulation materials etc.
The Government has the need for efforts addressing fabrication technology R&D for micro- system chips based on the silicon, deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) process. This technology is to be utilized for miniature electronic board applications. Processed chips will be applied for microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices for Safe and Arm and micro-initiation components. The Government has the need for efforts in the R&D of anti-tamper systems for remote armament systems. Anti-tampering systems are needed in increasing numbers, as military priority capability needs for autonomous tactical behaviors, autonomous movement, and manned/unmanned lethality are growing. Solutions are being sought to protect remote armament systems on the battlefield, in urban environments and in storage. The R&D efforts should include a capability that tracks tampering attempts made on unmanned systems. Anti-tamper systems that are capable of deactivating battery-operated unmanned systems are needed as well. The Government has a need for efforts in the R&D of micro-system packaging and micro-system architecture for input into remote armament systems. Novel optical, electrical and hermetic sealing techniques and capabilities will be needed to support this effort.
The Government also has need of efforts in the R&D of advanced distributed sensors (radar, electro-optics, infrared, direction finding) to provide fire control solutions supporting existing and emerging DEVCOM-AC weapon systems. Different sensors must provide detection range (minimum and maximum), angular coverage (ideally hemispherical or better), update rates, and measurement accuracies necessary for a given application within the appropriate timelines to assure that countermeasures are effective against a wide variety of threats including ground vehicles, unmanned air systems, direct and indirect fire. The sensors must also operate within size, weight, and power constraints of target platforms. Designs should also be developed with cost in mind. Sensor systems should also, to the extent possible, operate on the move. The sensors must operate in a variety of environments (dust, fog, rain, etc.) and should meet MIL- STD requirements for electromagnetic interference, electromagnetic compatibility, temperature, pressure, other environmental conditions, etc., as appropriate. In particular, sensors must be capable of operating in increasingly congested electromagnetic environments. They should be capable of multiple modes, missions, and applications, and, as such, should be easily configurable/re-programmable. The sensors must have good clutter/background cancellation capability and be able to discriminate amongst targets – allowing accurate, automatic identification of threat targets, while rejecting targets that are not of interest. Along with discrimination, there is also a need for sensors to be able to determine threat intent. Both discrimination and threat intent, in turn, require labeled data sets for algorithm development and/or training of machine learning (ML)/artificial intelligence (AI) processors. Sensors should use open, modular, scalable architectures to the extent possible. In addition, for specific missions, sensors should be compliant with appropriate standards or architectures (e.g. the U. S. Army’s Modular Active Protection System framework). They should also be designed for manufacturability, maintainability, upgradability, and flexibility. Sensors should be designed such that they can be used on a variety of platforms with the appropriate integration packages/kits.
DEVCOM-AC continues to seek new, innovative methods for enhanced lethality by disrupting anti access area denial (A2AD) systems at extended ranges in contested operational environments. This includes munitions delivered non-kinetic effects to deceive, degrade, and deny adversarial sensor systems and infrastructure. The capability should be scalable, focused on peer adversaries in a major conflict by employing a complex diversity on non-kinetic effects for offensive purposes, such as directly defeating adversary capability, delaying and degrading counter fire, and creating uncertainty and confusion. Munitions delivered non-kinetic effects will require distributed, collaborate, and autonomous behaviors to engage a peer adversary, and enhance diversity of the effects. Development of key enablers will be required in the domain of distributed autonomy, including munitions hardened hardware, field upgradeable software, tactics, primitives, and algorithms. In addition to offensive EW capability, the USG also has a need for non-kinetic effectors for use in counter unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) scenarios and in defensive postures.
As capability increases and munition payloads become more complex, the USG anticipates that there will be an added emphasis on the miniaturization and capability of all on board electronic components. This would include, but is not limited to, the payload capabilities listed above, onboard sensors and onboard electronics.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of particular interest at this time are unique technologies that address:
a. Low phase noise oscillators
b. High-efficiency power amplifiers
c. Small tunable bandpass filters
d. Distributed local oscillator architectures
e. Advanced clutter and multipath mitigation techniques
f. Machine learning/artificial intelligence techniques supporting discrimination, threat intent, etc.
g. Special-purpose integrated circuits, including RF systems on chips
h. Advanced lightweight materials
i. Additive manufacturing
j. Active electronic phased arrays
k. Digital antenna array architectures
l. Precise antenna calibration techniques
m. Advanced electronic protection techniques
n. High-performance, heterogeneous processing “backends”
o. Built-in test and diagnostics
p. Collaborative non-kinetic techniques
q. Sense, Target, Engage Autonomy
r. Munition hardened payloads and antennas
s. Scalable and field upgradeable software frameworks
t. Beyond Line of Sight Techniques
u. Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems
v. Data Fusion
w. Artificial Intelligence deep learning for classifications
Additional items include gun launchable sensors, environmental sensing technologies, flexible printed/hybrid electronics, novel inks for printed electronics applications, interconnects for flexible electronics, novel substrate materials, and low power electronic components.
The Government has a need for research efforts to establish the science behind the manufacture of quality weapon and munitions components, and the integrated data environment that will allow the process knowledge to be retained by the Army in a central repository for future use. These efforts shall address the identification, definition and understanding of materials, equipment, processing and procedures associated with the manufacture of weapons and munitions components; and the capture of that information so that this knowledge can be readily transferred to the industrial base for use in component manufacture using qualification and certification practices to instill quality, reliability, and safety. Efforts shall also address the integration of the 3D-Technical Data Package philosophy in the design to manufacturing cycle, and the sharing of digital information across dissimilar systems. Efforts that enhance DEVCOM-AC’s ability to understand the underlying science of component manufacture or further DEVCOM-AC’s capability to document and transfer manufacturing processes are desirable. Additionally, efforts that establish manufacturing science test beds, including Additive Manufacturing, to complement DEVCOM-AC’s prototyping capabilities are encouraged.
The Government is interested in proposals for advancing the state of the art in manufacturing and fabricating components for weapon and munitions systems. Of high interest are technologies that will extend the life of high-value components, such as small, medium and large caliber gun barrels. These technologies may be associated with coatings e.g. cold spray, plasma spray, laser deposition, high velocity oxygen fuel coating, laser peening, intensive quenching, etc.; and surface modification, i.e. superfine finishing, or material substitutions such as ceramic materials. Also, processes that reduce weight of system components, or extend performance either in terms of life, ballistics, or protection are of interest. Finally, the Government is interested in emerging technologies that can eliminate the use of Cr+6 based (hexavalent chromium) surface treatments used on weapon system components to include, but not limited to, gun barrels, recoil mechanisms, aircraft landing gear assemblies, etc. These processes shall be environmentally- compliant and provide equivalent, or better, performance as compared to Cr+6 -based surface treatments.
Further, the Government is interested in manufacturing processes to reduce cost, cycle time, and fabricate parts where price is independent of quantity. Examples of such processes include rapid prototyping technology, and free forming technology whether laser based, plasma based, or polymer based. Our vision of the future requires a “paperless process” from designer to machine. Inherent in this process are several subsets including a “model centric” design environment, including intelligent machining, joining, and processing. One goal is to add intelligence to machine tools to enable them to do a self-assessment, self-programming, self- diagnostics, self-scheduling, and in-process monitoring using both software and sensor tools capable of surviving in the harsh processing environment. Lastly, the Government is interested in fiber optic technology, and remote sensing or optics necessary for such systems; and technologies that instill intelligence in processes or machine tools e.g. modeling, data analysis, data fusion, etc.
The Government is interested in proposals to support our “model centric” design environment to rapidly advance the state of the art in modeling, simulation, design, manufacturing, and field support of components for weapon systems. Specifically, the Government has interest in technologies that transition from development to production of advanced design methodologies, and ensure that this transition occurs seamlessly and with the greatest possible understanding of manufacturing process capability in relation to design intent. It will be essential to establish process capability relative to design intent baselines and goals (i.e., Cp, CpK) and put the disciplines, methodologies, and tools in place to meet these goals. Additionally, the Government is interested in design expertise, methodologies and tools to achieve “quality” hardware from the very start of production and throughout the program production life cycle. The expertise and tools may include the capability to define and flow complex requirements at the characteristic level through multiple layers of the supply chain. It will also include the ability to simulate optimum processes and tooling for material and machined parts, seamlessly document process capability in relation to design intent, and provide for continuing improvement of both design and manufacturing processes; and provide the capability to capture, link, trace, analyze, and manage requirements to manufacturing processes.
The Government has a need for efforts in the development and demonstration of Novel Power, Energy Harvesting, Energy Storage and Energy Management Systems, i.e., develop and demonstrate the critical components for improved reserve batteries, hybrid power sources, and other novel power sources to include micro generators, super and ultra-capacitors, power harvesting and power distribution concepts. Fuel cell and Lithium (or Li Ion) battery research and manufacturing technology development are also possible areas for projects.
The Government is interested in proposals for advancing the state of the art in materials and technology for sustainable energy and environmental protection. Specifically, the Government is interested in materials and technology that will provide for improved power density, energy efficiency, reduced logistics and/or weight burden, and overall sustainability of energy sources during military deployment, and with a clean environmental footprint. Additionally, future concepts will require technologies that support significantly extended range with performance at elevated temperatures, increased performance at cold temperatures, and the survivability of the Power and Energy subsystem through the dynamic launch event. Technologies of interest include, but are not limited to, those for power and energy conversion, power generation, energy storage and recovery, renewable energy, and hybrid intelligent management technologies.
Materials of interest include, but are not limited to, coatings/materials to improve efficiency of photovoltaic and/or thermo-electric generators, novel materials for weight reduction and improved performance in batteries, materials for forward deployable sustainable energy systems, etc. Technologies proposed should demonstrate dual-use applications and have direct application to the Warfighter. Additionally, the Government is interested in innovative research that can lead to portable, efficient, and compact power technologies that enhance the military’s reach, decrease the logistical burden, and improve energy efficiency at all levels. Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to, innovative energy conversion, energy harvesting, micro- scale power sources, storage and recovery technologies, renewable energy, including solar and wind, energy harvesting/scavenging technologies, hybrid intelligent management technologies, alternative energy systems, fuel cells, and micro-grid forward deployable energy solutions. Also, the development of advanced novel electric and magnetic materials and coatings/materials that improve energy efficiency and enable sustainable power and energy technologies is of interest as well as novel coatings/materials for photovoltaic and thermo-electric generators, advanced nano- composites for turbine technology, enabling coatings/materials for advanced oil-free turbo- machinery or alternative approaches, or high temperature materials to reduce weight and increase efficiency of high temperature engines, novel battery materials, etc. In addition, the Government is interested in innovative research that can lead to portable, efficient, and compact power technologies that increase our military’s reach, decrease the logistics burden, and improve the overall efficiency of our war fighting forces, especially for distributed and net-centric operations.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of unique interest at this time are Improved thermal reserve and liquid reserve battery chemistries, micro-generators, capacitors, flexible/conformal batteries, thermoelectric materials, energy harvesting processes, batteries with improved cold weather performance (down to -40C), etc., while supporting significantly extended range, and performance at elevated temperatures.
The Government is interested in advancing the state of the art in Energetic Material technology within the entire lifecycle of explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics, from concept through disposal. Potential areas of interest include new methodologies in modeling and simulation such as packages to calculate the performance and signature properties of propellants, pyrotechnics, or explosive properties of ideal and non-ideal explosives. In addition to modeling and simulation, the Government has a desire to build and test the new propellants. This would include both static and dynamic testing. The Government also has a need for new synthesis methods; design and synthesis of energetic molecules, oxidizers, and binders; novel scale up synthesis and crystallization techniques, new analysis methods and specification modernization, and non- CHNO very high energy density materials. In terms of energy output, novel concepts that result in much greater energy density and/or energy availability within timeframes and volumes of typical high performance explosive, pyrotechnic, and propellants is desired. Tailored and tailorable burn properties for propellants and pyrotechnic signatures are desired for a variety of systems. Multi-purpose effects from a single explosive or warhead are also desired, such as blast, fragmentation, metal pushing, and electromagnetic effects. In the realm of formulations for propellant, explosive, and pyrotechnics, there is a need for energetics and mixtures that exhibit extreme compressive strength and toughness; new binders and additives for pressing, curing, and strengthening formulations; tailored surface and mechanical properties, and improved aging and high temperature and severe environment resilience. Novel processing technologies are needed in the following areas: higher throughput of melt pour, cast cure, and pressed explosive, propellant, and pyrotechnic formulations; creation and characterization of amorphous and nanoscale formulations, filling advanced geometry warheads, and tailoring of flow properties.
New ideas in the realm of novel disposal and energetics recycling and repurposing are also of interest, such as on-demand or reversible chemical bonding for demilitarization technologies.
The Government has a need for development and demonstration of reliable energetic quality verification methods in an industrial environment. These efforts shall address both verification of bulk ingredients and final formulations. The demonstration shall include considerations of the issues resulting from increasing production quantities and sampling method selection decisions.
The Government has the need for efforts that address the R&D of Advance Design Technologies. The technologies for R&D efforts include threat recognition, targeting, system communication of mission commands, remotely operated platforms, weapon systems and weapon systems security, control unit systems, battlefield automation systems, software/performance analysis, emerging software technologies, embedded systems, navigational guidance platforms, integrated user interfaces and processors, computer based systems, orientation and ranging technologies, enhanced software algorithm development and software sustainment/supportability as each relates to embedded software residency in weapons, improvements to existing systems and development of new systems, including the design, development, fabrication of hardware and electronics of these systems. Mission objectives are to enhance supported platforms, reliability, performance, capability, response time, and accuracy in meeting the Army’s Vision.
As part of the Advanced Design Technologies, airframes that have the capability to maneuver more and fly further, plus reach targets at hyper-velocities, would be of interest. The airframes can also have embedded novel propulsion technology, in order to reach the targets in a faster time. Novel material technology shall be explored for the purpose of launch survivability for hypervelocity launches, for actuation, and for shape changing of the outer mold line during flight. The motivation behind shape changing is the elimination of moving parts such as actuators which can be a burden on internal volume, and also can be an expensive item for the munition. Maneuvering capabilities can be enhanced through the use of the advanced morphing materials, since macro changes on the body shape can be accomplished instead of relying on deflecting canards using conventional motors. Ultimately, it will be essential to validate the performance through testing.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of particular interest at this time are technologies associated with the following concepts:
a. Novel Propulsion Design
b. Morphing airframes for optimizing maneuvers
c. Advanced material for weight reduction and launch survivability improvement
The Government is interested in next-generation technologies that will address pressing needs in fuze technology development. As seen below, miniaturization, reliability, manufacturability, and the ability to survive high “G” (G = acceleration of gravity) gun launch are critical attributes to be addressed. Specific research needs are outlined below.
7.1 Initiation Technologies
The Government has a need for research efforts addressing the R&D of in-line multi-point initiation technology that can accommodate 10’s of initiation points. Of specific interest are multi-point architectures that will scale up to 30-50 points of initiation while minimizing integration burden and volume in the warhead assembly. Initiation point simultaneity, selectivity and the ability to withstand gun launch “G” loads are key attributes that must be satisfied.
The Government is also seeking technology for the research, development, integration and demonstration of improved Electronic Safe and Arm Devices (ESADs) and advanced ESAD components. Of specific interest are technologies that will reduce the technical risk and improve the reliability and performance of ESADs while also reducing the size and cost of ESADs. One goal of these technologies is to allow ESADs to be utilized in high-G hard target applications such as artillery and other indirect fire munitions. Miniaturized passive first-safety-environmental sensors are a priority along with the next generation of G- hardened Exploding Foil Initiators. Research to develop miniaturized, high voltage components such as low cost switches, capacitors, and transformers is also needed. Novel integration techniques that will reduce the cost or size of today's component technologies will also be considered.
7.2 Improved Fuzes and Components for Hand Grenades, Sub-Munitions, Mortars and Artillery
The Government is seeking proposals for the research and development of an improved miniature Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) Safe and Arm (S&A) device including necessary energetics for gun launched munitions. The ability to survive gun launch, size minimization and manufacturability are key attributes that the technology must address. The Government is also interested in research into design improvements for improved manufacturability including energetics integration into MEMS devices that can be used across the whole portfolio of munitions.
The Government is also seeking proposals for the research into and the development of improved highly reliable sub-munition fuzes. Proposals should address improvements in the areas of design, manufacturability, loading, and assembly of sub-munition fuzes, and related components. The goal of this research is to increase the Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) of sub-munition fuze assembly to MRL6. This effort supports the development of Science & Technology (S&T) concepts under DEVCOM-AC’s Cluster Munition Replacement Technology effort.
Further, the Government is seeking proposals for the research into and the development of fuzes and fuze components that will improve producibility, performance, accuracy, consistency or function requirements of hand grenades. Research will include development of prototype hardware components including, but are not limited to, fuze assemblies (inert or live), fuze bodies, levers, hinge pins, strikers, springs, pull pins, pull rings, energetic components or energetic compositions that will demonstrate improved capabilities such as pull-force, delay time, and fuze outputs along with improved producibility.
7.3 Fuze Power Sources
The Government is seeking proposals for research into the development of low cost, robust prototype power sources for advanced extended range munitions. The Government is interested in novel thermal and liquid reserve battery technologies and energy harvesting technologies that demonstrate extended run times greater than 3 minutes over temperature extremes of interest. Solutions which demonstrate a higher energy density and power density through integration of new electrode materials, insulation materials or novel construction of battery/power source are of interest to meet this requirement.
7.4 Advanced Proximity / Height of Burst Sensors
The Government is seeking proposals for research into the development and demonstration of advanced proximity / Height of Burst sensor systems capable of being integrated into munition systems. Areas of interest include Radio Frequency, Optical, and Image based proximity sensor technologies. Custom components for use in these systems are also of interest to include transmitters, receivers, apertures, and signal processors (digital and analog Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Solutions which demonstrate high levels of integration and being capable of integration into a wide variety of munitions are of highest interest.
7.5 Fuze / Mission Setters
The Government is seeking proposals for research and development of secure spread spectrum wireless fuze mission setting capability. Also of interest is wireless power transfer for systems within near field ranges (less than 10m). Demonstration of this technology would be in support of long range precision fires auto-loader integration goals within the Army.
The Department of Defense, DOD, has been for many years been researching, developing and manufacturing smart munitions that can withstand thousands of “g” loads during launch. The development of these munitions has focused in areas such of power, electronics, inertial measurements, actuators, rocket motors and seekers. The DOD has been able to make great strides in all these areas with the result being the testing, manufacturing and fielding of gun launched smart munitions for the U.S. Army. With that said, areas such as autonomy, and state- of-the-art guidance, navigation and control technologies will need significant R&D efforts.
Since there is a need for long range precision guidance, technologies that will enable a munition to fly faster and further, be more accurate in acquiring targets, with the ability to conduct midcourse corrections (with and without the use of GPS), will be essential. Autonomy can be introduced into the field of operations by designing a munition that is not only smart, due to its electronics and navigation, but will also have the ability to communicate with other munitions in flight. An example may be a leader / follower scenario where you have several smart munitions that are fired in a volley. The leader munition will then be communicating with the other munitions, and will be providing them with information of targets so they, in turn, can make corrections in flight in order to prosecute various targets. This area is a new field of study called “Collaborative Control”. Because of the increase in launch velocities needed for longer ranges, longer flight times and enhanced maneuverability to go after moving targets, R&D efforts to define more accurate robust navigation and position transmission technologies will be necessary especially if munitions need to communicate with one another. Methods of accurately measuring the projectile flight dynamics can include state-of-the-art technologies that will improve projectile on board state estimation without GPS satellite data. In this GPS denied scenario, terrain mapping can be a method in improving accuracy. With that said, downloading maps to the munition, and having the munition recognize optically the sites on the ground in order to improve its position estimation will be of critical importance. Another possibility can be to use celestial navigation in conjunction with terrain mapping. However, there is a need for innovative research into terrain mapping, celestial navigation or other state of the art methods in order to improve accuracy for the smart munitions.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES:
a. Collaborative Control
b. Terrain mapping for position estimation accuracy
c. Celestial navigation
The Government is interested in research into next generation warhead and lethal mechanism technologies that contribute to providing more energy on target, enabling multi-domain lethality against a wide range of target sets, and maintaining lethality as warhead volumes are reduced in size to accommodate other munition system components.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of particular interest is research to develop the technologies associated with the following concepts:
a. Warhead scaling effects and optimization
b. Fabrication using novel materials
c. Advanced modeling & simulation capabilities that account for the use of novel materials
d. Collaborative lethal effects
e. Warheads with multiple modes of operation
f. Novel initiation schemes
g. Survivability in extreme environments
h. Advanced fragmentation
i. Split Hopkinson Bar Technology
j. Advanced lethality modeling
k. Long standoff, aero-stable warhead concepts
l. Anti-armor warhead concepts
m. Counter-UAS/Counter-RAM technologies
n. Advanced warhead testing and diagnostic capabilities description
The U.S. Army is interested in research proposals related to emerging Fire Control technology. Specific areas for research include: (1) Advanced Technical Fire Control; (2) Position / Navigation; (3) Advanced Algorithms; (4) Advanced System Controllers; (5) Biometric and Human Machine Interface Technologies; (6) Photonics and Quantum Science Technologies, and (7) Live, Virtual and Embedded Fire Control Trainers
Specific research needs are outlined below.
10.1 Advanced Technical Fire Control
The Government is in need of research to develop direct view Optics, Electro-Optic, Sighting systems or their components in support of the military’s mission to provide superior military equipment to our warfighters. Research topics of interest are:
a. Develop Optics material and/or equipment
b. Develop state of the art electro-optics, fiber-optics and sighting system technologies
c. Advance study of threat capabilities
d. Develop better understanding from analysis gained from experimentation
e. Air & Ground Platform Signature Reduction
f. Dismounted Target Acquisition Optical Capability
g. Improved Soldier Protection
h. Sensor/effects packages (to deny access to critical points and provide force protection)
i. Soldier Signature Reduction
j. Use modeling and simulation to determine survivability
k. Bio-mimicry advances in flexible Photo-detectors, Smart Optics, Adaptive Optics, Advanced Weapon Sight (aiming reticle)
l. Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS)
m. Improved Situational Awareness
n. Improved position sensors
For the Advanced Technical Fire Control subtopic the Government is in need of research to develop direct view Optics and new sighting technologies in support of the military’s mission and ground based platforms.
10.2 Position / Navigation
The Government is in need of research to develop position or navigation sensors such as, but not limited to, non-magnetic compasses, gyroscopes, inclinometers and accelerometers in support of the military’s mission to provide superior military equipment to our Warfighters.
This research is directed to advance the capabilities of PNT (Position, Navigation, Timing). The emphasis is to develop advancements in laser gyros, next-Gen ASIC chipsets and capabilities to function in anti-spoof and anti-jam environments.
10.3 Advanced Algorithms
10.3.1
Architecture
The Government is in need of research to demonstrate rapid sensor-to-shooter target hand-off at all echelons that can support the military’s mission to protect the nation and/or the warfighter from any threats. Research topics include:
a. Reduced soldier/leader cognitive work load
b. Seamless integration of manned and unmanned effects assets
c. GPS denied soldier tracking
d. Lethal UV integration
10.3.2 Target Acquisition
The Government is in need of research to demonstrate an auto-tracker in small, medium and large weapon sighting systems and improved target range information that can support the military’s mission to protect the nation and/or the warfighter from any threats. Research topics of interest are:
a. Closed Loop Fire Control / Data Links
b. Projectile tracking and closed loop improvement
c. Correcting for miss distances
d. Target State Estimation (TSE) / Prediction
e. Auto Tracking
f. Auto / Aided Cueing
g. Aiming Aides
h. Ballistic Algorithms / Computation
i. Advanced Meteorological Measurements and Prediction
j. Multiple/many target handing/prioritization (ie swarm)
k. Automated target detection, recognition and identification
10.4 Advanced System Controllers
The Government is in need of research to develop an innovative system controller that can support the military’s mission to protect the nation and/or the warfighter from any threats. Research topics of interest are:
a. Small Footprint
b. Reduced Power Consumption
c. Ruggedization Technology
d. LRM Form Factor
e. Expandable Interfaces
f. Standard Architecture
g. Simultaneous Multiple OS
h. Self-Diagnosing/Self Reporting BIT
i. Remote Display/User Input Capability via Standard Interface (e.g. Ethernet)
10.5 Biometric and Human Machine Interface Technologies
a. The Government is in need of research to develop biometric and human to machine interface systems for Armament Systems or the individual components that can support the military’s mission to protect the nation and/or the warfighter from any potential threats. Research topics of interest include: Sensors that can collect biometric information, while on the move and/or stationary, about personnel, or other potential threats.
b. Software and/or hardware systems that can store, analyze biometric data, detect and/or classify threats, and/or any other information useful for the warfighter
c. Weapon systems with biometrics capabilities
d. Human machine sensor interface technologies that can receive and/or provide input directly between weapon systems and warfighter organic sensor network
e. Brain machine interface technologies that allow neurologic link directly between warfighter and fire control systems
10.6 Photonics and Quantum Science Technologies
The Government is in need of research to develop photonics and quantum science technologies for Armament Applications. Some areas of interest are:
a. Photonics and quantum based technologies for potential Fire Control Technologies including but not limited to target acquisition and tracking, signature reduction, and potential spoofing technology.
b. Integrated photonics for the reduction of size, weight, and power for Fire Control and other Armament Systems.
c. Advanced computer hardware technologies for high performance, power efficient computing, particularly in austere environments.
d. Photonics and quantum based technologies for the next generation of PNT technologies for Armament applications.
e. Target acquisition technologies for obscured targets, either obscured by environment or camouflage.
f. Photonics technologies for the advanced control of laser wave fronts for Fire Control applications.
g. Software technologies appropriate for the analysis of low photon target image processing and associated machine learning approaches for target recognition.
h. Photonics technologies for laser protection.
10.7 Live, Virtual and Embedded Fire Control Trainers
The Government is in need of research to develop embedded interfaces and advanced visualization systems that utilize fire control systems for areas of live, virtual and embedded training that meets the military's need to maintain readiness of the warfighter as expert system operators and able to maximize lethality potentials of armament systems. Some of the areas for research are:
a. Computer vision and graphics
b. Small Footprint
c. Ruggedization Technologies
d. Low bandwidth secure networking
In conclusion - For the Advanced Fire Control Topic: Of unique interest at this time is research associated with the following:
a. Unmanned & autonomous systems that can provide advancements in target info to Fire Control
b. Sensor fusion methods and networks to increase fire control and diagnostic effectiveness
c. Down range wind sensors
d. Dynamic Fires Planning and Execution
e. Real time localized MET and environmental data for Fire Control corrections
The Government is interested in proposals for advancing the state of the art in force sustainment capabilities technologies that enhance armament supportability; ammunition health monitoring; ammunition packaging, storage, transportation and handling; ammunition forecasting; weapon rearm / resupply; battlefield manufacturing; sense and respond supply chain management technologies and methodologies that directly support providing Warfighters with the armaments, ammunition, and other equipment they need, when they need them and in the right condition.
Specifically, the Government is interested in research into technologies and approaches that address the planning, setup and operation of supply nodes, tools based on best practices to evaluate and optimize the performance of supply operations throughout the entire armament and ammunition enterprise, and aggressive sustainment capabilities to improve the responsiveness and agility of sustainment operations at all echelons.
The Government is also interested in researching technologies that provide ammunition health monitoring capabilities to understand the readiness of the ammunition stockpile and to ensure only fully functional ammunition items are issued and utilized. These monitoring capabilities may address exposure to (but not limited to) temperature, vibration, shock, humidity, and radiation, as they effect both existing and/or developmental systems.
The Government requires technologies that help analyze, interpret, and evaluate the supportability implications of a system; predictive maintenance technologies; and technologies that improve how a system is supported. Additionally, the Government is interested in technologies and approaches to allow for quicker and advanced battlefield manufacturing processes and materials. Finally, the Government is interested in technologies that allow for automated rearm and resupply of armament systems.
The research may address any or all aspects of the supply chain including production, transport, storage (short and long term), supply node operations, tactical distribution, and retrograde. The proposals may span from software/AI based planning, optimization and execution tools, to hardware-based distribution enablers to hybrid electro-mechanical systems, or any combination thereof technologies that improve how armament systems are supported.
The Government has the need to establish and expand its quality presence in mitigating supply chain cybersecurity risks in the development, test and deployment of both software intensive systems (including hardware) whether for weapon system application, information system deployment or manufacturing internal control systems (hardware and software). We are looking for research into strategies equivalent up to and including, the State-of-the-Art Resource for Software Vulnerability Detection, Test, and Evaluation, a.k.a. the “Software SOAR,” program, for software assurance, and analogous strategies for hardware assurance. The ultimate goal of the research is for the AC to become competent and relevant practitioners in the deployment of solutions for supply chain challenges from both an information and an operation technology perspective.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES:
a. Environmental sensing, recording and logging technologies
b. Systems to collect data from sensors that monitor the environment that an armament system and ammunition have been exposed to
c. AI-based systems to manage the health of the ammunition stockpile through analyzing large datasets
d. AI-based systems to aid with storage, planning and execution of the movement of ammunition horizontally and vertically throughout the ammunition supply chain against current and forecasted needs/consumptions
e. AI-based systems to aid in the identification and prediction of supportability drivers and considerations for armament systems
f. AI-based systems to provide predictive maintenance and repair information and solutions
g. AI-based systems to aid in design and development processes
h. Planning and execution hardware and software systems to optimize the planning and operation of supply nodes and maintenance facilities at all echelons
i. AI based planning and execution systems that assist in planning and executing armament sustainment/movement operations
j. AI based planning and execution systems that specifically target tactical ammunition distribution operations to ensure the ammunition supply chain is efficient, agile and responsive in direct support of tactical operations
k. Systems that improve the ability to retrograde ammunition
l. Material technologies for container/palletization
m. Packaging/Pallet designs and interfaces that allow for more efficient containerization, palletization, or transportation of ammunition
n. Hardware and software technologies that allow for faster printing and high fidelity of 3D printed parts
o. AI-based decision systems to determine best supply alternative (Rapid Fabrication in field, DLA, local source, cannibalization, etc.) for repair to achieve optimum readiness
p. Hardware and software technologies that allow for automated rearm and resupply
q. Automated tracking of expenditures of serial–numbered items
r. Solutions that monitor and prevent Cyber-attacks on the supply chain
s. Data collection and analytical systems that determine optimal use of appropriate personnel and skills necessary to support armament systems
t. Solutions that identify need for new, refresher, remedial, or other training for users of armament systems and then can deliver the exact training needed, when it is needed, in the most efficient manner
u. Solutions to aid in the identification/prediction of obsolescence of hardware and software components for armament systems
The Government has interest in research into innovative technologies that improve environmental sustainability of life cycle stages for weapons and weapons systems. This includes manufacturing, production, maintenance, storage, use, demilitarization and disposal of ordnance such as mortars, flares, smokes, grenades, ammunition, energetics and explosives.
Innovative technologies are intended to lead to new capabilities that improve Military readiness while protecting human health and the environment.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of particular interest at this time are technologies associated with the following:
a. Wastewater treatment to reduce or eliminate soluble and insoluble concentrations of compounds such as RDX, HMX, DNAN, NTO, ANSOL, nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and other explosives and explosive degradation products
b. Identify and eliminate emerging contaminants in munitions such as PFAS, hexavalent chromium, asbestos and methods to prevent air, water, or soil contamination during disposal by open burn, open detonation or incineration
c. Process modeling or other methods to better understand treatment mechanisms and improved prediction of outcomes and effects on environmental safety and human health (ESOH)
d. Novel technologies for enabling stand-off, remote or autonomous methods to disarm, and disassemble known, unknown, or undocumented munitions
e. Research on the use of artificial intelligence for process control and predictive operations
f. Surveillance methods to monitor the condition of air emissions, wastewater quality, and effectiveness of demilitarization processes to ascertain compliance with regulatory requirements
g. Novel engineering to improve processing rates
h. Innovative technologies for closed disposal of munitions
i. Simultaneous demilitarization and disposal of mixed ordnance
j. Research for methods to reduce impact of open burn or open detonation disposal of energetic and non-energetic materials on human health and the environment
k. Eliminate the use of toxic chemicals such as Cr+6 based (hexavalent chromium) surface treatments used on weapon system components to include but not limited to gun barrels, recoil mechanisms, aircraft landing gear assemblies, etc. These processes shall be environmentally-compliant and provide equivalent, or better, performance as compared to Cr+6 -based surface treatments.
DEVCOM-AC provides the Software Supportability mission for the PEO IEWS, PM DoD Biometrics - Biometrics Enabling Capabilities program of record. Consequently, the Government has the need for research into the development of biometric and identification technology. This shall include efforts that advance the state of the art in the ability to detect, identify, characterize, and track items, activities, conditions, and events worldwide which will provide direct benefit to the warfighter. The Government has the need research efforts that analyze, improve, verify and validate biometric technology supporting the collect, match, analysis, and sharing functions of the DoD’s Biometrics Enterprise, including next generation tactical handheld collection devices. Current biometric technologies assist in providing these capabilities but are limited to the degree of which they can scale and meet future needs. More advanced biometric collection, storage, matching, analysis, and sharing systems will allow the Government enhanced situational awareness, and identity superiority on the battlefield for today’s mission as well as mission requirements far into the future.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of unique interest at this time are technologies associated with the following concepts:
a. Fingerprint, Face, Iris, Palm, Voice, DNA capture, feature extraction, templating, and matching
b. Modular, scalable, lightweight, and portable imaging platforms
The Government has the need for research efforts in the advancement of software container and container orchestration technology to increase the development, deployment, scalability and cybersecurity, of software applications of any size. Current software applications are difficult to scale and secure flexibly as mission requirements change resulting in significant requirements, architecture, design and implementation rework when using traditional software development technology and methodologies. Container & container orchestration technology will provide the Government modern capabilities to rapidly, flexibly, and securely deliver solutions to the warfighter at an unprecedented scale. Leveraging containerized software applications & orchestration supports the DoD Enterprise DevSecOps Initiative and USD AT&L Better Buying Power.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of unique interest at this time are technologies associated with the following concepts:
a. Open Standards Compliant, Cloud Agnostic Container and Container Orchestration
b. Embedded Application & Safety Critical Container Implementations
The Government has the need for basic and applied research in support of leveraging Government owned and managed cloud based software factories enabling and promoting the use of DevSecOps to increase the development, testing, accreditation, and Authority To Operate approval of modern software applications. DevSecOps is the union of people, process, and products to enable continuous delivery of value to end users including cybersecurity accreditation. Current software development processes & tools in use by DEVCOM-AC require far too much manual human involvement which adds cost, time, and risk to the process of rapidly developing, deploying, and maintaining quality software. Under the current cybersecurity and fiscal austerity landscapes, usage of DevSecOps concepts has become prohibitive for organizations to manage locally. Basic & applied research is required to determine the best GOTS, open source, and COTS tools specific to the application domain that would benefit the most from its use as well as developing best practices for implementation and widespread usage in an organic Government software development environment with additional classification, safety, cybersecurity restrictions currently not experienced by most organization implementing DevSecOps today. Government cloud based software factories enabling DevSecOps will allow organic developers of modern technology the ability to learn, fail, and remediate fast to deliver modern capabilities to the warfighter that have been continuously accredited to minimize the risk of adversarial exploitation that will soon touch all aspects of software development at
DEVCOM-AC. Leveraging Government cloud software factories & DevSecOps supports the DoD Enterprise DevSecOps Initiative and USD AT&L Better Buying Power.
The Government has the need for applied research efforts in the development of future Small Arms Lethal Technologies and capabilities. This shall include novel approaches and solutions to make the individual Warfighter or Platform more lethal against lightly armored, infantry level targets. This includes advanced technologies which will increase probabilities of hit and incapacitation, while decreasing the overall time to engagement. The Government has the need for applied scientific studies and experimentation directed toward increased knowledge of desired metrics with regards to weapon operation and maintenance, weapon signature, ammunition (interior, exterior, and terminal ballistics), fire control (acquiring targets, determining range, marking/tracking), and human factors / maneuverability. The research technologies should address the battlefield for today’s mission as well as mission requirements far into the future.
EXAMPLE TECHNOLOGIES: Of particular interest at this time are unique technologies that address:
a. Training, Aides, Devices, Simulators, and Simulations (TADSS)
b. Ergonomics and Human-Systems Interface
c. Increased Maneuverability
d. Breaching
e. Weapon System Power
f. Networked Weapon Systems
g. Remote and Externally Powered Weapon Systems
h. Advanced Weapon and Battlefield Sensors
i. Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning and Algorithmic Computation
j. Aim Augmentation
k. Counter UAS/UGS
l. Weapon System Controllability
m. Advanced Weapon System Operation Technologies
n. Barrel Technologies
o. Weapon System Signature Reduction
p. Subterranean and Dense Urban Environments
q. Interior Ballistics
r. Exterior Ballistics and Guidance, Navigation and Control
s. Terminal Ballistics
t. Counter Defilade
u. Alternate Incapacitation Mechanisms
The Government is interested in research relative to Digital Engineering technologies, specifically technologies that support the development, management, and use of the Digital Thread. The Digital Thread is the product’s data and their relationships captured as links or connections over the course of the product’s lifecycle. Product data includes CAD, software, requirements, architecture, documents, engineering analysis, and production data. The ability to integrate product data across various engineering disciplines enables the generation of the Digital Thread, a driving factor for successful implementation of Digital Engineering, which is a major thrust area for the U.S. Army and DoD. Technologies that facilitate the integration of data and models across the product life-cycle are of interest.
The Government seeks to advance the state-of-the-art and/or increase knowledge in how disparate engineering models and data can be "integrated" or linked together regardless of any specific software tool the models and data are created or stored in. Of particular interest at this time are technologies associated with semantic integrations across different domain-specific modeling languages, across various levels of model fidelity and multiple levels of abstraction. Other technologies of interest include tool-agnostic Data Exchange Standards, Linked-Data, Ontologies, Open Services for Lifecycle Collaboration (OSLC), Application Programming Interfaces (API’s), and Extract-Transform-Load technologies.
The Government has the need for research efforts addressing destructive and non-destructive testing technology. This shall include efforts that advance the state of the art for performing natural and induced environmental testing of explosive and inert armaments, munitions, and fire control devices at the system and component levels, and developing and implementing new non- destructive evaluation techniques for product evaluation (including, but not limited to: ultrasonic, Eddy current, Radiography, Mag particle, Penetrant, thermography, acoustic emission); dimensional analysis; joining technology; and additive manufacturing.
The Government has the need for research efforts addressing advanced capabilities associated with armament system ballistic test and evaluation (T&E). These efforts shall address the complete infrastructure associated with a fully functional state-of-the-art ballistic test facility. Focus shall be on improving T&E efficiency by reducing cycle time, increasing the reliability of data capture, minimizing environmental impact, incorporating state-of-the-art instrumentation and technique and integrating virtual participation while maintaining the standards required by Government regulation and licensing permits. Introduction of novel T&E equipment and methodology is encouraged.
The Government also has the need for research into physical inspection in support of non- destructive testing. The efforts shall address new developments in programmable inspection equipment (CMM, laser scanners, Romer Arms, and hand/held portable devices) which allow for increasingly efficient inspections with high levels of accuracy. Additionally, advancements in this area will be considered for use in expedited resolution of malfunction investigations as well as reverse engineering applications.
Recognizing that certain work activities need to continue even in light of a pandemic, the Government would like to explore ideas or industry and/or academia experiences with virtual monitoring, and lab sharing. Most of the software testing is conducted with a computer, tablet, or electronic equipment (oscillation scope, power supply, etc.). Most equipment has an output port to a screen, which means that whatever is on the screen can be broadcast with conference/chat software. Video recording/streaming can also be utilized to stream the test events. Independent verification & validation subject matter experts should be able to monitor the screen remotely instead of witnessing the software testing physically. In light of the current health concerns which calls for social distancing and remote work activity, the need for office space is lessoned. If this strategy can be made effective and efficient it can be continued even after the current crisis has subsided. We must also recognize that testing requires a person to operate the equipment even during a pandemic. How do we design a safe space for a single person or necessary team to operate under such conditions as well?
The Government has the need for efforts addressing automated SW testing technology especially within Agile SW development environments. This shall include efforts that advance the state of the art for planning and executing automated SW testing and developing/implementing new SW automation techniques (ex. AI) for verification and validation of Armament and IT SW. Strategies must explore and/or identify automated tools that can aid in code reviews/analysis, white, grey and black box test activities. The automatic test equipment and deployment strategy must identify skill levels and training requirements for usage to include cost and license requirements.
The Government has a need for efforts in research and development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) software and systems. This shall include research and development in algorithms and AI models, resiliency of deep learning algorithms, and mitigation to attacks against AI. Key additional aspects include research on identification of poisoned data sets and input manipulation impacts, and identification of critical features. Current AI models have shown weakness to specialized adversarial attacks, which lead to invalid and detrimental results for the user.
The Government is also interested in research that address the ability to understand and explain an AI model for adherence to trust, ethical, and safe utilization. This should include an understanding of why an AI model generates specific outputs and the confidence level in understanding that reason. Many AI models do not have the ability to provide enough “understanding" for a user or evaluator to understand how a specific decision was reached.
The Government has a need for research to address the development of certification of data sets for Artificial Intelligence training, validation, and testing. Areas of interest include technologies and approaches that address, but are not limited to, certifying data sets are complete and competent for a given program and developing the means to ensure that the test and evaluation of an AI enabled system has satisfactory coverage of expected stimuli and potential outcomes to ensure the fielding of safe, suitable, and supportable materiel. Applications may include image recognition, decision making, prioritization, and resource management.
The Government is also interested research into alternative software quality models for use with software systems that incorporate or rely on Artificial Intelligence or machine learning solutions to achieve system functions and capabilities. This shall include research into algorithm and AI model development, resiliency of deep learning algorithms, and mitigation to attacks against AI. Models shall utilize metrics for machine learning solutions in lieu of traditional software traceability. Such models shall ensure the requirements are satisfied by expected functionality to predefined levels and present a comprehensive list of all potential failure outcomes should the system behave in an unexpected way. As a result of the research software developers would have a path for certifying the quality of a software system employing various levels of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning without being hindered by the lack of traceability. The Government is also interested in a new acceptance standard for an AI based system that permits software to be evaluated without concrete traceability from requirement, through the source code to the function.
The purpose of this area is to identify user requirements and operational deficiencies in a variety of operational areas that are amenable to solution through application and exploitation of the existing technology base. The intent is, to the greatest extent possible, to leverage existing technologies and where possible provide for early application and entry of these technologies in to the field. Concomitant with this need is the requirement to actually solve identified problems and deficiencies. These solutions will often take the form of complex, multi-disciplinary and multi- agency collaborations, to include Government, industry and academe. However, due to the complex nature of these collaborations, it will be necessary to have single, or very limited, spans of control, coordinating these efforts to optimize the resources spent and return to the Government on investment, yet still efficiently and effectively meeting the needs of the end user.
To most effectively meet this evolving mission area, it will be necessary to assess, evaluate, and exploit existing resources and capabilities, focusing on integrating in innovative and unconventional ways existing and evolving technologies, but also being able to identify and implement research plans to fill gaps in existing tech base capabilities and resources.
However, where it is not practical or desirable to use existing tech base resources, accelerated efforts building on already existing programs will be employed. Particular emphasis will be applied to the various and diverse array of technologies and programs extant within a variety of environments, including but not limited to DOD and other Governmental agencies. While the focus is on long range, high risk, high-payoff programs there are nonetheless numerous opportunities for early transition of programs towards focused requirements. Effort will be made to identify both candidate technologies and programs to which this paradigm will apply. Failing this, however, focused research efforts to fulfill specific needs and bridge identified gaps in the tech base, will be implemented. Ultimately, final efforts will consist of a combination of acquisition, advanced development and basic research, all focused on achieving an end capability to fulfill a defined deficiency.
Scientific and Technical Areas of Interest:
Assessment of the needs of the various user communities has shown value in providing support for technology identification and program management and integration functions in a variety of areas. These areas include the following:
20.1 Research proposals for advanced and innovative technology review
This would include maintaining an understanding and innovative utilization capability of advanced technologies. Efforts might consist of supporting and coordinating meetings with other Government agencies, contractors, and educational institutions, as well as any other source of information or technology deemed useful. These meetings will provide a primary source of information concerning both technologies and requirements.
20.2 Research proposals for technology utilization support
This would include the process of identifying and analysis of opportunities for Government program managers, as well as evaluating transition potential for existing and new technologies. Efforts would include gathering and correlation of data on a wide array of technologies, as well as assisting in assembly and evaluation of requirements from all users. Other efforts might include obtaining various technologies, through whatever means appear appropriate, and assess and evaluate their utility. This will be done through a variety of means including purchase, custom-design, development, and integration of existing systems. Evaluation will be under a variety of conditions including operational and laboratory.
20.3 Research proposals for the prototyping, manufacturing, assessment and delivery of systems for use by the Government
Efforts would focus on use of various technologies transitioned from other arenas. Efforts may include location and identification, analysis and assessment, assembly of multi- disciplinary teams and management of integrated efforts to achieve an end capability in as optimal manner as possible.
20.4 Research proposals to evaluate operational environments and requirements Efforts would focus on supporting the evaluation of operational environments for determination of technology transition and support opportunities. These might include observation, participation, and evaluation and analysis of operational situations, primarily involving training scenarios, but potentially involving actual operational missions. Mission areas may include military, Federal Agency, and civilian missions as appropriate and required.
20.5 Research proposals to develop and implement processes for rapid response and prototyping needs of critical, high priority missions
Focus would be on developing a capability to meet rapid response to prototyping requirements as well as assist in the methodology implementation of a wide array of users and mission oriented agencies. This will include evaluation of existing capabilities, development of a method of scheduling and coordination of work, support of design conception and implementation, managing of the manufacturing process, evaluation final product and iterative design changes as required to meet user needs.
20.6 Research proposal focused for the integration and implementation of multi- disciplinary, multi-agency and multi-jurisdictional integrated efforts to meet complex program needs
This would include the analysis and identification of key problems and solution approaches, the creation of integrated program implementation and problem solution plans, and the overall management of resources, assets, and creation of programs to meet these needs. This may include a combination of in-house assets and resources, subcontracting to various industrial and academic centers, and coordination and collaboration of and with various Government agencies and organizations. The efforts will consist of overall analysis, management and integration of highly complex and diverse resources to meet the needs of the end user. This process may culminate in products ranging from prototypes of materiel solutions through complete delivery and IOC to analysis and recommendations of doctrinal or procedural changes.
21.1 Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML)
Armaments Center is seeking AI/ML algorithms to continuously analyze the data in the Command Post Computing Environment (CPCE), display ongoing trends and predict where future events may occur. These AI/ML algorithms can be further extended for Course of Action (COA) recommendation based on the output of the aforementioned trend analysis.
AI/ML algorithms should take into the following data attributes at a minimum in the analysis of trends and COA recommendations: account for temporal and geospatial tagged data, confidence level of data, and source of data.
21.2 Intelligent Networking
The Armaments Center is seeking a method to manage data transmission over a Disconnected, Intermittent, and Low Bandwidth (DIL) network. In a tactical environment, sometimes network connectivity can be extremely limited and, at times, intermittent. In these situations, prioritizing the data going over the network becomes extremely important.
A solution that notifies the Command Post Computing Environment (CPCE) operator of the network characteristics/changes and impact on data transmission is desired. The solution should allow the CPCE administrator to determine which prioritized data to transmit for a given scenario, or if certain CPCE front end capabilities should be suspended.
21.3 Cloud Computing
The Armaments Center is seeking solutions to architect the Command Post Computing Environment (CPCE) to operate in a cloud environment, to include the Amazon’s Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure clouds. This effort would take a look at leveraging some of the native cloud services when CPCE is deployed in a Cloud environment. We would look to leverage native Cloud services such as Azure Kubernetes Services, Azure Active Directory, Azure SQL Database, Azure Container Registry, and Azure Key Vault (or equivalent AWS or other Cloud services).
21.4 Containerization
The Armaments Center is looking for ways to reduce the Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) characteristics of the Command Post Computing Environment (CPCE) through the utilization of containers. Additionally, containers will increase performance while minimizing resource utilization. The resulting solution will demonstrate the CPCE software and services running in containers, while identifying the SWaP-C savings.
The Government is interested in research and development of small, medium, large caliber, non- lethal and directed energy weapon systems and its subsystems. These weapon systems include artillery, mounted mortars, infantry/soldier-borne armaments, combat vehicle mounted armaments, directed energy weapons, electro-magnetic weapon system, force protection weapon system, counter explosive hazard armaments, air defense armaments, and aircraft weapons systems; for both lethal and non-lethal applications.
These include hand guns, rifles, carbines, machine guns, chain guns, crew served weapons, grenade launchers, multi-barrel Gatling guns, remote/robotic weapons systems and gun pods, mounted mortars, cannon caliber indirect fire systems (e.g. towed artillery and self-propelled artillery), electro-magnetic launch systems, non-lethal weapons/devices, and directed energy weapon systems (e.g. High Power Microwave, Radio Frequency weapons, laser weapons, high voltage/electrostatic discharge weapons) to damage/destroy materiel targets.
Weapon systems components or subsystems include: cradles, gun mounts, gimbals, gun pods, manned/unmanned turrets, bi-pods, tri-pods, recoil mechanisms, elevation and traverse systems, equilibrators, suppressors, mounting rails, upper carriages, lower carriages, cabs, gun drives, electronic control systems, ammunition handling and loading systems, laser ignition systems, HPM/Radio Frequency (RF) sources, beam control, antennas, pulse power components, power supplies, operator station and controls, fire control integration, and supporting hydraulic, electric, structural, and protective subsystems.
The Government is in need of research to develop advanced at platform automated maintenance systems that can support the Government's mission to protect the nation and / or warfighter from any potential threats with maintaining operational armament systems. Some of the areas for research are:
a. Visual and Audio Interfaces
b. Non-intrusive sensors
c. Secure Wireless Communications
d. Real-time Machine Learning Sensor Data Analytics
e. Artificial Intelligence Fault Resolution Algorithms
f. Secure distributed data collection
The Government is in need of research to develop advanced automated test systems and sub- systems that can support maintaining readiness and availability of DoD platforms and achieve the goals of the National Defense Strategy. Some of the areas for research are:
a. Electrical Optical test
b. Radio Frequency test
c. Augmented reality in automated test
d. Parallel Test
e. Cybersecurity
f. Mechanical/Electrical Sensors
g. Prognostics Data Collection Technology
As future engagements shift, a focus of smart munitions that include advanced payloads and deployed sensor packages will be necessary. The Government has a need for multi-unit collaboration among deployed assets while utilizing artificial intelligence during autonomous mission engagements. In order to prosecute missions, the USG has an interest in the following, but not limited to, topics:
a. Advanced Target Recognition
b. Vision Based Navigation for Unmanned Aerial and Terrestrial based Systems (UAS and UGV)
c. Obstacle Avoidance
d. Mission Prioritization
e. Collaborative Engagement.
The Government is interested in enhancements and state of the art developments in Operations Research System Analysis (ORSA) and Modeling and Simulation (M&S) frameworks, models, methods, analysis and toolsets in support of weapon system evaluations in a Multi-Domain Operations (MDO) context.
Item Level including sub-system model characterization (source code or black box executable) with an emphasis on novel warhead technology methodology and assessments, enhancements to existing M&S framework including high fidelity threat system modeling, and improvement to visualizations of simulation outputs.
Operational Level including force on force combat simulations and visualizations, stand-alone or federated over High Level Architecture (HLA) / Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) protocols providing battlefield assessments of current and future weapon system technologies.
Applications of methods, models and tools supporting a live, virtual, and constructive (LVC) modeling paradigm, incorporating of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning techniques and algorithms into combat models including sensor / shooter pairings and decision making, agent behaviors, and advanced targeting techniques.
The Armaments Center intends that this BAA be used as a research tool for efforts in support of the Joint Program Executive Office Armaments and Ammunition (JPEO A&A) and the general items under their control. Note 1 below outlines the JPEO A&A organization. Note 2 lists the general items of interest, and associated technologies with a summary of short, mid, and long term objectives. Note 3 provides the specific needs of the Assured Precision Munitions branch of the JPEO A&A.
Note 1: The JPEO A&A is organized under the following Program Management (PM) offices:
• Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems (CAS)
• Project Manager Close Combat Systems (CCS)
• Project Manager Maneuver Ammunition Systems (MAS)
• Project Lead Joint Services
• OEDCA- Executive Director Conventional Ammunition
➢ Single Manager for Conventional Ammo (SMCA)
Note 2: General items of interest and associated technologies of interest for R&D efforts, some with short through long term objectives:
1.Flares & Signals
a. Tunable countermeasures (multi-purpose)
b. Fully tunable effects (user selectable)
2.Tank Ammo
a. Depleted Uranium (DU) alternates
b. Advanced Kinetic Energy (KE) and Advanced Multi-Purpose (AMP) technology
c. Guided extended range for advanced targets
3.Small Caliber
a. Extended range guided with user tunable effects
b. “Trace” capability in smart sight on the weapon vs. on the round
c. “Ammo on demand” for User to “produce” the ammo as needed
4.Artillery & Mortars
a. Advancing the capabilities of precision cannon munitions
b. Alternative Navigation (Alt-Nav) correction algorithms
c. Ultra-Long range and Hyper-Velocity artillery
d. Autonomous Networked Weapons
5.Demolition
a. Non-kinetic neutralization of explosives from standoff
6.Bomb Technology
7.Medium Caliber
a. Collaborative/swarming effects
b. “Ammo on Demand” logistics improvements
8.Non-Lethal Technology
9.Counter Explosive Hazard (CEH)
a. Increased speed, autonomous operations and standoff for detection marking; associated lower cost technologies
b. Detection and non-kinetic neutralization of explosives from standoff
10.Grenade Technology
Note 3: Assured Precision Weapons and Munitions PNT (Position Navigation and Timing) and NAVWAR Technology needs:
1.Alternative sources of Position, Navigation, and/or Timing other than GPS for weapons and munitions (RF and non RF based)
2.Assured Position Navigation and Timing (GPS and non GPS solutions) threat protection solutions
3.PNT Software Defined Solutions for weapons and munitions
4.Weapons and Munitions NAVWAR technologies supporting penetrating, disrupting, and disintegrating A2/AD environments and enabling situational awareness
5.M&S tools facilitating NAVWAR analysis of weapons and munitions with possible integration into command and control constructs enabling optimal target and weapon/munition pairing in NAVWAR challenged environments
The Government is interested in basic and applied research that involves the adaptation of advanced and innovative technology, processes and procedures from the private sector for military applications. Additionally, research that has transition potential of adapting existing military technology for unique warfighter needs are encouraged. Further, prototyping efforts, including state-of-the-art Additive Manufacturing, that assess manufacturing technologies and R&D systems at Government facilities are wanted. Finally, efforts that provide rapid response technologies to fulfill needs in critical, high priority missions that can maintain the quality and reliability of the systems are needed. This may also include coordinated efforts that evaluate operational environments and requirements in relation to a proposed technology.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

Beyond the direct award, companies benefit from:

Government Validation & Technical Credibility
Being selected by DEVCOM Armaments Center signals that your technology aligns with Army modernization priorities—significantly strengthening credibility with primes, integrators, and investors.

Non-Dilutive Technology Maturation
Awards allow companies to advance high-risk, high-impact technologies with non-dilutive capital, increasing enterprise valuation and accelerating commercialization.

Access to Army Technical Stakeholders
Awardees collaborate with government engineers, program offices, and test facilities—creating opportunities for future transition paths, follow-on funding, and insertion into Army programs of record.

Increased Visibility & Notoriety
Participation in Army-funded R&D often enhances visibility with Congress, DoD stakeholders, and defense industry partners.

Strengthened Exit / Acquisition Potential
Demonstrating government-backed R&D progress increases the likelihood of strategic partnerships or acquisition by major defense primes.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

BAA Open Period: Open until Mar 17, 2026.

White Papers: May be submitted any time during the open period.
Evaluation: Approximately 3 weeks after submission.
Proposal Requests: Only if the white paper is rated Promising, though any offeror may voluntarily submit a full proposal.
Awards: Rolling, contingent on available funding; multi-month contracting timelines should be expected.

Because the BAA is continuously open, funding timing varies but generally follows white paper evaluation → proposal submission → negotiation → award.

Where does this funding come from?

Funding is provided by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Armaments Center, located at Picatinny Arsenal, under federal R&D authority including FAR 6.102(d)(2), 10 U.S.C. 2371/2358 (Other Transactions), and applicable DoD research statutes.

Who is eligible to apply?

All responsible sources may apply, including:

Traditional and nontraditional defense contractors
Small and large businesses
Universities and research institutions
Nonprofits

The BAA encourages participation from HBCUs and Minority Institutions.

SAM.gov registration is required prior to award. White papers and proposals must be submitted via email to the contracting POCs.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Highly competitive proposals will:

Directly address one of the 28 detailed technology areas (e.g., advanced materials, energetics, AI/ML, fire control, autonomous munitions, logistics, digital engineering).
Provide innovative, non-incremental research concepts
Demonstrate feasibility, technical merit, and Army relevance
Show strong organizational capability, facilities, and past performance
Include clear pathways to future Army integration

Funded efforts typically target high-impact, dual-use, defense-relevant technologies aligned to Army modernization priorities such as long-range precision fires, soldier lethality, next-generation combat systems, and advanced energetics.

Complimentary Assessment

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

Key restrictions include:

Some OT awards may require cost share (e.g., 50/50 for research TIAs).
Classified submissions require prior approval and special handling.
Possession of a SECRET facility clearance is recommended for potential future phases (not needed to get started).

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

Typical preparation timelines:

White Paper: 2–6 weeks depending on complexity.
Full Proposal (if requested): 6–12+ weeks for technical, cost, and contractual documentation.

How can BW&CO help?

Our team specializes in complex federal R&D proposals and can:

Triple your likelihood of success through proven strategy and insider-aligned proposal development
Reduce your time spent on the proposal by 50–80%, letting your team focus on technology and operations
Ensure you are targeting the best opportunity for your project and positioning your company for long-term growth under Federal & State R&D Initiatives.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Our full service support is available to submit a white paper for a flat fee of $4,000.

Fractional support is $300 per hour, with most scout card projects requiring 10-12 hours of work.

For startups, we offer a discounted rate of $250 per hour to make top-tier grant consulting more accessible while maintaining the same level of strategic guidance and proposal quality.

Additional Resources

See solicitation on sam.gov

Defense & Dual Use TechnologyArtificial Intelligence & Machine LearningRobotics & Autonomous SystemsOther TechARMYAdvanced Materials & ManufacturingCleantech & ClimatechCybersecurity

Josiah Wegner https://www.bwcoconsulting.com

Emerging Weapons, Munitions Systems, and Soldier Lethality BAA

Executive Summary:

How much funding would I receive?

What could I use the funding for?

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Where does this funding come from?

Who is eligible to apply?

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

How can BW&CO help?

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Additional Resources

BW&CO: Innovation Funding Simplified.

Contact

Location

Emerging Weapons, Munitions Systems, and Soldier Lethality BAA

Executive Summary:

How much funding would I receive?

What could I use the funding for?

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Where does this funding come from?

Who is eligible to apply?

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

How can BW&CO help?

How much would BW&CO Charge?

Additional Resources

Space Domain Awareness Solutions CSO

Drone Dominance Program (DDP) – One-Way Attack (OWA) sUAS Procurement

BW&CO: Innovation Funding Simplified.

Contact

Location