MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY (MDA)

SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH (SBIR) PROGRAM

SBIR 08.3 Supplemental Proposal Submission Instructions

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

The MDA SBIR/STTR Program is implemented, administrated and managed by the MDA Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP).  If you have any questions regarding the administration of the MDA SBIR/STTR Program please call 703-553-3418 or e-mail: sbirsttr@mda.mil.  Additional information on the MDA SBIR/STTR Program can be found on the MDA SBIR/STTR home page at http://www.mdasbir.com/.  Information regarding the MDA mission and programs can be found at http://www.mda.mil.

 

Questions About SBIR and Solicitation Topics

 

For general inquiries or problems with the electronic submission, contact the DoD Help Desk at 1-866-724-7457 (1-866-SBIRHLP) (8:00 am to 5:00 pm EST).  For technical questions about the topic during the pre-solicitation period (28 July 200 8 through 24 Aug 2008), contact the Topic Authors listed under each topic on the http://www.dodsbir.net Web site by 24 Aug 2008.  Please Note:  During the pre-release period, you may talk directly with the Topic Authors to ask technical questions about the topics. Their names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses are listed within each solicitation topic. For reasons of competitive fairness, direct communication between proposers and topic authors is not allowed when DoD begins accepting proposals for each solicitation. However, proposers may still submit written questions about solicitation topics through the SBIR/STTR Interactive Topic Information System (SITIS), in which the questioner and respondent remain anonymous and all questions and answers are posted electronically for general viewing until the solicitation closes. All proposers are advised to monitor SITIS during the solicitation period for questions and answers, and other significant information, relevant to the SBIR/STTR topic under which they are proposing.

 

Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and Support Contractors:

Only Government personnel will evaluate proposals.  In some circumstances, non-government, technical personnel from the following Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and support contractors will provide advisory and assistance services to MDA, including providing technical analyses of proposals submitted against MDA topics and of applications submitted to the MDA Phase II Transition Program.

 

FFRDCs: Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory

 

Universities / Non-Profit Organizations: Aerospace Corporation, Draper Laboratory, Institute of Defense Analyses, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL,), MITRE Corporation, University of New Mexico, Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory.

 

Support Contractor Organizations: Aerothermo Technologies, Inc., BFA Systems, Booz Allen Hamilton, Coleman Technologies, Inc, CACI International, Inc., Computer Science, Inc., Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), deciBel Research, Inc., DESE Research, Inc., Dynamic Research Corporation, Inc., Engineering Research and Consulting (ERC), Lockheed Martin, ManTech/SRS Technologies, Millennium Engineering and Integration, Inc., Modern Technology Solutions, Inc., Northrop Grumman, Paradigm Technologies, People Tech, Radiance Technology, Schafer Inc., Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Science and Technology Associates, Inc. (STA), Sparta, Inc., SYColeman Corporation.

 

Individual support contractors from these organizations will be authorized access to only those portions of the proposal data and discussions that are necessary to enable them to perform their respective duties. These organizations are expressly prohibited from scoring or ranking of proposals or recommending the selection of a source.  In accomplishing their duties related to the source selection process, employees of the aforementioned organizations may require access to proprietary information contained in the offerors' proposals.

 

Pursuant to FAR 9.505-4, the MDA contracts with these support contractors include a clause which essentially requires them to (1) protect the offerors’ information from unauthorized use or disclosure for as long as it remains proprietary and (2) refrain from using the information for any purpose other than that for which it was furnished.   In addition, MDA requires the employees of those support contractors that provide technical analysis to the SBIR/STTR Program to execute non-disclosure agreements.  These agreements will remain on file with the MDA SBIR/STTR Program Management Office (PMO).

 

Conflicts of Interest

 

You must avoid any actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest (OCI) while participating in any MDA-funded contracts, regardless of whether it was awarded by MDA.  You must report to the MDA SBIR/STTR Program Office via e-mail any potential OCI before submitting your proposal or application.  The MDA SBIR/STTR Program Office will review and coordinate any possible solutions or mitigation to the potential conflict with the contracting officer.  If you do not make a timely and full disclosure and obtain clearance from the contracting officer, MDA may reject your proposal or application, or terminate any awarded contracts for default.  See FAR Subpart 9.5 for more information on organizational conflicts of interest. 

 

PHASE I GUIDELINES

 

MDA intends for the Phase I effort to determine the merit and technical feasibility of the concept, with a cost not exceeding $100,000.  Only UNCLASSIFIED proposals will be entertained. 

 

A list of the topics currently eligible for proposal submission is included in section 8, below, followed by full topic descriptions.  These are the only topics for which proposals will be accepted at this time.  The topics originated from the MDA Programs and are directly linked to their core research and development requirements.

 

Please assure that your mailing address, e-mail address, and point of contact (Corporate Official) listed in the proposal are current and accurate. MDA cannot be responsible for notification to a company that provides incorrect information or changes such information after proposal submission.

 

PHASE I PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

 

Read the DoD front section of this solicitation, including Section 3.5, for detailed instructions on proposal format and program requirements.  Proposals not conforming to the terms of this Solicitation will not be considered.  MDA reserves the right to limit awards under any topic, and only those proposals of superior scientific and technical quality will be funded.  MDA may fund more than one proposal in a specific topic area if the technical quality of the proposal is deemed superior, or it may fund no proposals in a topic area.

 

MDA will evaluate and select Phase I proposals using scientific review criteria based upon technical merit and other criteria as discussed in this solicitation document.  Due to limited funding, MDA reserves the right to limit awards under any topic and only proposals considered to be of superior quality will be funded.  MDA is not responsible for any money expended by the proposer before award of any contract.  

 

If the offeror proposes to use foreign nationals: Identify the foreign nationals you expect to be involved on this project, country of origin and level of involvement.  Please be prepared to provide the following information should your proposal be selected for award: individual’s full name (including alias or other spellings of name); date of birth; place of birth; nationality; registration number or visa information; port of entry; type of position and brief description of work to be performed; address where work will be performed; and copy of visa card or permanent resident card. 

 

The technology within some of the MDA topics is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services.  You must ensure that your firm complies with all applicable ITAR provisions.   Please refer to the following URL for additional information: http://www.pmddtc.state.gov/itar_index.htm

 

You must submit the entire technical proposal, DoD Proposal Cover Sheet, Cost Proposal, and the Company Commercialization Report electronically through the DoD SBIR/STTR Web site at  www.dodsbir.net/submission/SignIn.aspIf you have any questions or problems with the electronic proposal submission, contact the DoD SBIR/STTR Helpdesk at 1-866-724-7457.  Refer to section 3.0 of the DoD solicitation for complete instructions and requirements.

 

 

MAXIMUM PAGE LIMIT FOR MDA IS 20 PAGES

 
 

 

 

 

Only proposals submitted via the Submission Web site on or before the deadline of 6 a.m (EST) on 24 September 200 8 will be processed.  Please Note:  The maximum page limit for your technical proposal is twenty (20) pages.  Any pages submitted beyond this, will not be evaluated.  Your cost proposal, coversheets, and Company Commercialization Report DO NOT count towards your maximum page limit.

 

 

PHASE I PROPOSAL SUBMISSION CHECKLIST:

 

All of the following criteria must be met or your proposal will be REJECTED.

 

____1. The following have been submitted electronically through the DoD submission site by 6 a.m. (EST) 24 September 2008.

_____ a. DoD Proposal Cover Sheet

 

_____ b. Technical Proposal (DOES NOT EXCEED 20 PAGES): Any pages submitted beyond this, will not be evaluated.  Your cost proposal, coversheets, and Company Commercialization Report DO NOT count towards your maximum page limit.

 

_____ c. DoD Company Commercialization Report (required even if your firm has no prior SBIRs).

 

_____ d. Cost Proposal (Online cost proposal form is REQUIRED by MDA)

 

 ____2. The Phase I proposed cost does not exceed $100,000.

 

MDA PROPOSAL EVALUATIONS

 

MDA will utilize the Phase I Evaluation criteria in Section 4.2 of the DoD solicitation, including potential benefit to the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) in assessing and selecting for award those proposals offering the best value to the Government.  

 

MDA will use the Phase II Evaluation criteria in Section 4.3 of the DoD solicitation, including potential benefit to BMDS and ability to transition the technology into an identified BMDS, in assessing and selecting for award those proposals offering the best value to the Government.    In the Phase II Evaluations, Criterion C is more important than criteria A and B, individually.  Criteria A and B are of equal importance. 

 

In Phase I and Phase II, firms with a CAI at the 20th percentile will be penalized in accordance with DoD Section 3.5d.

 

Please note that potential benefit to the BMDS will be considered throughout all the evaluation criteria and in the best value trade-off analysis.  When combined, the stated evaluation criteria are significantly more important than cost or price.   Where technical evaluations are essentially equal in merit, cost or price to the government will be considered in determining the successful offeror. 

 

It cannot be assumed that reviewers are acquainted with the firm or key individuals or any referenced experiments.  Technical reviewers will base their conclusions only on information contained in the proposal.  Relevant supporting data such as journal articles, literature, including Government publications, etc., should be contained or referenced in the proposal and will count toward the applicable page limit.

 

 

INFORMATION ON PROPOSAL STATUS

 

The Principal Investigator (PI) and Corporate Official (CO) indicated on the Proposal Coversheet will be notified by e-mail regarding proposal selection or non - selection.  If your proposal is tentatively selected to receive an MDA award, the PI and CO will receive a single notification. If your proposal is not selected for an MDA award, the PI and CO may receive up to two messages. The first message will provide notification that your proposal has not been selected for an MDA award and provide information regarding the ability to request a proposal debriefing.  The second message will contain debrief status information (if requested), or information regarding the debrief request.  Small Businesses will receive a notification for each proposal submitted. Please read each notification carefully and note the proposal number and topic number referenced.

 

IMPORTANT: We anticipate having all the proposals evaluated and our Phase I contract decisions in the December 2008 timeframe.  All questions concerning the evaluation and selection process should be directed to the MDA SBIR/STTR Program Management Office (PMO). 

 

 

MDA SUBMISSION OF FINAL REPORTS

 

All final reports will be submitted in accordance with the Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) of the resulting Contract.  Refer to Section 5.3 of the DoD Solicitation for additional requirements.

 

 

 

PHASE II GUIDELINES

 

This Solicitation solicits Phase I Proposals. For Phase II, no separate solicitation will be issued and no unsolicited proposals will be accepted.  Only those firms that were awarded Phase I contracts, and have successfully completed their Phase I efforts, will be invited to submit a Phase II proposal.  MDA makes no commitments to any offeror for the invitation of a Phase II Proposal.  Phase II is the prototype/demonstration of the technology that was found feasible in Phase I.  Only those successful Phase I efforts that are invited to submit a Phase II proposal will be eligible to submit a Phase II proposal.  MDA does encourage, but does not require, partnership and outside investment as part of discussions with MDA Sponsors for potential Phase II invitation.

 

Invitations to submit a Phase II proposal will be made by the MDA SBIR/STTR PMO.  Phase II proposals may be submitted for an amount normally not to exceed $750,000.  MDA may consider making Phase II Invitations not to exceed a maximum of $2.5M.  You may only propose up to the total cost for which you are invited.

 

The MDA SBIR/STTR PMO does not provide “debriefs” for firms who were not invited to submit a Phase II proposal.

 

PHASE II PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

 

Phase II Proposal Submission is by Invitation only:  A Phase II proposal can be submitted only by a Phase I awardee and only in response to an invitation by MDA.  Invitations are generally issued at or near the Phase I contract completion, with the Phase II proposals generally due one month later.  In accordance with SBA policy, MDA reserves the right to negotiate mutually acceptable Phase II proposal submission dates with individual Phase I awardees, accomplish proposal reviews expeditiously, and proceed with Phase II awards. If you have been invited to submit a Phase II proposal, please see the MDA SBIR/STTR Web site http://www.mdasbir.com/ for further instructions. 

 

Classified proposals are not accepted under the DoD SBIR/STTR Program. Follow Phase II proposal instructions described in Section 3.0 of the Program solicitation at www.dodsbir.net/solicitation and specific instructions provided in the Phase II Invitation. Each Phase II proposal must contain a Proposal Cover Sheet, technical proposal, cost proposal and a Company Commercialization Report submitted through the DoD Electronic Submission Web site at www.dodsbir.net/submission/SignIn.asp by the deadline specified in the invitation. 

 

MDA FAST TRACK DATES AND REQUIREMENTS

 

Introduction:  For more detailed information and guidance regarding the DoD Fast Track Program, please refer to Section 4.5 of the solicitation and the Web site links provide there.  MDA’s Phase II Fast Track Program is focused on transition of technology.  The Fast Track Program provides matching SBIR funds to eligible firms that attract investment funds from a DoD acquisition program, a non-SBIR/non-STTR government program or Private sector investments.  Phase II awards under Fast Track will be for $1.0M maximum, unless specified by the MDA SBIR/STTR Program Manager.

 

 

Submission:  The complete Fast Track application along with completed transition questions (see note below), must be received by MDA within 120 days from the Phase I award date.  Your complete Phase II Proposal must be received by MDA within 30 days of receiving approval (see section entitled “Application Assessments” herein for further information).  Any Fast Track applications or proposals not meeting this deadline may be declined.  All Fast Track applications and required information must have a complete electronic submission.  The DoD submission site www.dodsbir.net/submission/SignIn.asp will lead you through the process for submitting your application and technical proposal electronically.  Each of these documents is submitted separately through the Web site. 

 

Firms who wish to submit a Fast Track Application to MDA MUST utilize the MDA Fast Track Application Template available at http://www.mdasbir.com (or by writing sbirsttr@mda.mil).  Failure to follow these instructions may result in automatic rejection of your application.

 

Firms who have applied for Fast Track and not selected may still be eligible to compete for a regular Phase II in the MDA SBIR/STTR Program. 

 

Current guidance and instructions may be found at http://www.mdasbir.com.

 

MDA SBIR PHASE II TRANSITION PROGRAM

 

Introduction: To encourage transition of SBIR projects into BMDS, the MDA’s Phase II Transition Program provides matching SBIR funds to expand an existing Phase II contract that attracts investment funds from a DoD acquisition, a non-SBIR/non-STTR government program or Private sector investments. The Phase II Transition Program allows for an existing Phase II SBIR contract to be extended for up to one year per Phase II Transition application, to perform additional research and development. Phase II Transition matching funds will be provided on a one-for-one basis up to a maximum amount of $500,000 of SBIR funds in accordance with DoD Phase II Enhancement policy at Section 4.6 of the DoD Solicitation.  Phase II Transition funding can only be applied to an active DoD Phase II SBIR contract.

 

The funds provided by the DoD acquisition program or a non-SBIR/non-STTR government program may be obligated on the Phase II contract as a modification prior to or concurrent with the modification adding MDA SBIR funds, OR may be obligated under a separate contract.  Private sector funds must be from an “outside investor” which may include such entities as another company, or an investor.  It does not include the owners or family members, or affiliates of the small business (13 CFR 121.103).

 

Background:  MDA’s technologies are often managed via a Technology Maturation and Transition Program (TMTP) composed of two linked components, technology maturation and technology transition commitment.  The TMTP is designed to ensure that all technology development programs in MDA map to a BMDS improvement and, after a period of development and maturity, are transitionable to targeted BMDS end users.  End user is defined as the Element, Component or Product Manager to which it is intended to transition the technology.   Because of this, it is important that your Phase II be at or approaching a Technology Readiness Level of either 5 or 6 (defined below) at time of application for the MDA Phase II Transition Program.

 

Current guidance and instructions may be found at http://www.mdasbir.com.


MDA SBIR 08.3 Topic Index

 

 

INTERCEPTOR TECHNOLOGY

The Interceptor Research Area funds innovative technologies that have the potential to increase the capabilities and effectiveness of future or present interceptors for the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). 

 

MDA08-001

Cabling Architecture and Mechanisms

MDA08-002

Interceptor Seekers

MDA08-003

Advanced Synergistic Structures for Interceptor Kill Vehicles

MDA08-004

Interceptor Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Algorithms

MDA08-005

Advanced Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS)

MDA08-006

Interceptor Avionics

MDA08-007

Innovative Axial Propulsion Technology for Missile Defense Interceptors

MDA08-008

Target Instrumentation Technology

MDA08-009

Test Methodology and Equipment for Radiation Hardened Interceptors

 

SPACE TECHNOLOGY

The Space Technology Research area focuses on developing and transitioning technologies to enable or improve the operation of Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) elements in the long-term orbital environment.  Current emphasis is on technologies benefiting the Space Tracking and Surveillance System (STSS), but technologies enabling other elements are of longer term interest as well.  One of the over-arching requirements for all work in this area is the ability to survive and operate in orbit:  this means a tougher natural radiation environment (and potential enhancement by man-made threats) than on earth, the absence of atmosphere, and micro-gravity.  Most of the efforts are hardware oriented, but software improvements are also of interest.  These technologies will be ITAR restricted. 

 

MDA08-010

Improved Cryogenic Cooling Technology

MDA08-011

Space Component Miniaturization

MDA08-012

Advanced Space Power Management & Energy Storage Technologies

MDA08-013

Advanced Space Sensor Components and Concepts

MDA08-014

Radiation-Hardened Memory

MDA08-015

Real Time Monitoring of Natural and Enhanced Space Environments

MDA08-016

Spacecraft Assembly, Integration and Test  Enhancement

MDA08-017

Silicon Carbide (SiC) Cryogenic Optics Technology Advancement

 

MANUFACTURING AND PRODUCIBILITY

The Manufacturing and Producibility Research Area focuses on innovative technologies for manufacturing, assembly, and production at all levels of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Supply Chain. 

 

MDA08-018

Manufacturing Process Maturation for Propulsion Technology

MDA08-019

Improved Performance, More Producible Long Wave IR Integrated Dewar Assemblies

MDA08-020

Advanced Missile Materials and Process Technologies

MDA08-021

A Risk Reduction Process for Enhanced Mission Assurance

MDA08-022

Ballistic Missile Defense System Innovative Power  

MDA08-023

Radiation Hardened Producible Manufacturing

MDA08-024

Advanced Nitride Heterostructures for X-Band GaN HEMTs

 

 

 

 

 

RADAR SYSTEMS

The Radar Research Area focuses on innovative and/or enhanced technology development or "game changing" technology that improves radar functionality, packaging and/or affordability.

 

MDA08-025

High-Power RF-MEMS Phase Shifters for Phased-Array Applications

MDA08-026

Multistatic Sea-Based Radar Concepts and Architectures

MDA08-027

Wideband Beamformer

MDA08-028

Wideband Sub-Array Digital Receiver Exciter (DREX) Development and Packaging

MDA08-029

Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Power Inverters and Converters for Next Generation Transmit Receive (T/R) Module Power Supplies

MDA08-030

Calibration techniques for very large arrays

MDA08-031

Innovative Hardware Technologies for Anti-Jam and Electromagnetic Attack Rejection in Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Radars

 

MODELING, SIMULATION AND PHENOMENOLOGY

The Modeling, Simulation and Phenomenology Research Area funds technological innovations in Modeling & Simulation (M&S) to support development and testing of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). Ballistic Missile Defense System-Level Simulation Optimization

 

MDA08-032

Integrated UV/VIS/IR background phenomenology models for radiation transport system trades

MDA08-033

Exploitation of Alternative Wavelengths for Propulsion Related Signature Events

MDA08-034

Enhancements to Continuum Plume Flowfield Models for Transitional Flow Simulations

MDA08-035

Signature Prediction and Uncertainty Analysis for Radar-based MDA Applications

MDA08-036

Ballistic Missile Defense System-Level Simulation Optimization

 

COMMAND, CONTROL, BATTLE MANAGEMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS (C2BMC)

The Integration Research Area funds technological innovations related to supporting Command, Control, Battle management, and Communications (C2BMC).  As such, C2BMC is the integrating element of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). 

 

MDA08-037

End-to-End BMDS Interceptor / Ground Terminal Communication Links

MDA08-038

Global Missile Defense Battle Management

MDA08-039

Discrimination

MDA08-040

Sensor Registration

 

INFORMATION ASSURANCE

The Information Assurance/Computer Network Defense (IA/CND) Research Area pursues cutting edge solutions to enhance the security posture of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) and to explore new anti-tamper capabilities. 

 

MDA08-041

Power Solutions for Integrated Anti-Tamper Technologies

MDA08-042

Real-time Application Security in a Communications Network

MDA08-043

Ballistic Missile Defense Anti-Tamper Penalty and Response Capabilities

 

SAFETY/INSENSITIVE MUNITIONS(IM)

The safety and Insensitive Munitions (IM) research area covers the overall safety of the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) and its components. The current focus of this research area is IM and missile propulsion safety including hypergolics and igniters. IM is a Department of Defense (DoD) requirement derived from U.S. law and addresses the need to minimize munitions’ reactions to unplanned stimuli such as fire, bullet and fragment impact. IM is a major thrust area and priority throughout DoD, and, as a result, many new IM technology projects have been initiated.  The other related area of research is overall safety improvements to Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) systems.  To date, activity in this area has concentrated on new guided missile igniter technology and safer hypergolic propellants for use in attitude control systems. The safety research area is governed by MDA program needs to meet military and NATO safety standards. 

 

MDA08-044

Development of Fast and Slow Cook-off Mitigation Sensor

MDA08-045

MIL-STD-1901A Compliant In-Line Initiation Systems for Propulsion Applications

MDA08-046

Safety Technologies for  Liquid Hypergolic Propulsion Systems

 

DIRECTED ENERGY

The ultimate Directed Energy Research Area technical objective is to take innovative technology developed by dynamic small businesses and insert the technology into air and ground weapon systems for integration into the Ballistic Missile Defense community.

 

MDA08-047

Compact High Power Microwave Payloads

MDA08-048

Improved Pressure Recovery System

MDA08-049

Advanced Light-Weight Solid State Laser Cooling System (High Power Solid State Laser)

MDA08-050

Passive Range Estimation from Angle-only Sensor Data (Acq Pointing & Tracking)

MDA08-051

Advanced LADAR Modeling  

 

 


MDA SBIR 083 Topic Index

 

 

MDA08-001                         Cabling Architecture and Mechanisms

MDA08-002                         Interceptor Seekers

MDA08-003                         Advanced Synergistic Structures for Interceptor Kill Vehicles

MDA08-004                         Interceptor Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Algorithms

MDA08-005                         Advanced Divert and Attitude Control Systems (DACS)

MDA08-006                         Interceptor Avionics

MDA08-007                         Innovative Axial Propulsion Technology for Missile Defense Interceptors

MDA08-008                         Target Instrumentation Technology

MDA08-009                         Test Methodology and Equipment for Radiation Hardened Interceptors

MDA08-010                         Improved Cryogenic Cooling Technology

MDA08-011                         Space Component Miniaturization

MDA08-012                         Advanced Space Power Management & Energy Storage Technologies

MDA08-013                         Advanced Space Sensor Components and Concepts

MDA08-014                         Radiation-Hardened Memory

MDA08-015                         Real Time Monitoring of Natural and Enhanced Space Environments

MDA08-016                         Spacecraft Assembly, Integration and Test Enhancement

MDA08-017                         Silicon Carbide (SiC) Cryogenic Optics Technology Advancement

MDA08-018                         Manufacturing Process Maturation for Propulsion Technology

MDA08-019                         Improved Performance, More Producible Long Wave IR Integrated Dewar Assemblies

MDA08-020                         Advanced Missile Materials and Process Technologies

MDA08-021                         A Risk Reduction Process for Enhanced Mission Assurance

MDA08-022                         Ballistic Missile Defense System Innovative Power  

MDA08-023                         Radiation Hardened Producible Manufacturing

MDA08-024                         Advanced Nitride Heterostructures for X-Band GaN HEMTs

MDA08-025                         High-Power RF-MEMS Phase Shifters for Phased-Array Applications

MDA08-026                         Multistatic Sea-Based Radar Concepts and Architectures

MDA08-027                         Wideband Beamformer

MDA08-028                         Wideband Sub-Array Digital Receiver Exciter (DREX) Development and Packaging

MDA08-029                         Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Power Inverters and Converters for Next Generation

Transmit Receive (T/R) Module Power Supplies

MDA08-030                         Calibration techniques for very large arrays

MDA08-031                         Innovative Hardware Technologies for Anti-Jam and Electromagnetic Attack Rejection

in Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Radars

MDA08-032                         Integrated UV/VIS/IR background phenomenology models for radiation transport system

trades

MDA08-033                         Exploitation of Alternative Wavelengths for Propulsion Related Signature Events

MDA08-034                         Enhancements to Continuum Plume Flowfield Models for Transitional Flow Simulations

MDA08-035                         Signature Prediction and Uncertainty Analysis for Radar-based MDA Applications

MDA08-036                         Ballistic Missile Defense System-Level Simulation Optimization

MDA08-037                         End-to-End BMDS Interceptor / Ground Terminal Communication Links

MDA08-038                         Global Missile Defense Battle Management

MDA08-039                         Discrimination

MDA08-040                         Sensor Registration

MDA08-041                         Power Solutions for Integrated Anti-Tamper Technologies

MDA08-042                         Real-time Application Security in a Communications Network

MDA08-043                         Ballistic Missile Defense Anti-Tamper Penalty and Response Capabilities

MDA08-044                         Development of Fast and Slow Cook-off Mitigation Sensor

MDA08-045                         MIL-STD-1901A Compliant In-Line Initiation Systems for Propulsion Applications

MDA08-046                         Safety Technologies for  Liquid Hypergolic Propulsion Systems

MDA08-047                         Compact High Power Microwave Payloads

MDA08-048                         Improved Pressure Recovery System

MDA08-049                         Advanced Light-Weight Solid State Laser Cooling System (High Power Solid State

Laser)

MDA08-050                         Passive Range Estimation from Angle-only Sensor Data (Acq Pointing & Tracking)

MDA08-051                         Advanced LADAR Modeling  

 


MDA SBIR 083 Topic Descriptions

 

 

MDA08-001                        TITLE: Cabling Architecture and Mechanisms

 

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Materials/Processes, Electronics, Weapons

 

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: DE

 

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals, their country of origin, and what tasks each would accomplish in the statement of work in accordance with section 3.5.b.(7) of the solicitation.

 

OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative approaches for reliable/ robust modular interconnection of interceptor components, including electrical,radio-frequency, heat, light and accommodating special needs (separation / pyro, EMI, lightning, weather).

 

DESCRIPTION: This topic seeks improvements to the means by which the components within an interceptor platform are united to form a coherent system.  Canonically, the modular components of interceptors are mechanically affixed within the platform structure and joined together through electrical connectors.  The platform provides structures for mechanical protection, electrical (digital/analog/radio-frequency/power) transport, and thermal management to these components.  Conventionally, the platforms provide cabling between components through covered raceways, which may be internally potted for improved robustness. Traditionally, the overall wiring harness and fairing are fabricated as an integrated unit referred to as an integrated missile harness fairing assembly (IMHFA).  We seek improvements to this classic architecture to include; the examination of integral modular structures, enhanced connectors, adaptive wiring, integrated self-test/diagnostic, enhanced test/debug support, advanced optical/rf approaches, and in general any improvements that lead to more rapid and flexible construction, integration, assembly, test, and deployment of cabling systems. We also seek innovation that can lead to the simplification of harnessing through embedded component intelligence, clever bandwidth exploitation/multiplexing of functions, and standard interfaces. Among the challenges faced by new approaches are: (1) mass/volume overhead of cabling, (2) mechanical robustness (harsh flight environments, storage, handling), (3) expanding performance, (4) resilience to aeroheating, (5) weather exposure/erosion, (6) lightning protection, (7) extreme temperature cycling, and (8) signal integrity.  We are also interested in the critical interdependence of platform structures to cabling and component interfaces and additionally seek creative treatments of structures (e.g., use of composites).  Proposers must also address separation systems, which pose special challenges.

 

PHASE I: Develop architecture concepts and requirements for test articles and objective vehicle articles.  Develop raceway or IMHFA concepts or establish the equivalency of proposed concepts to these constructs.  Develop a design and plan of approach for development of stated objectives.  Through analysis, identify approaches for potential solutions to the above challenges that meet the challenges outlined above.  To the degree possible, demonstrate and provide confidence in the approaches through test. 

 

PHASE II: Develop prototypes of improved raceway(s) / IMHFA(s) (or equivalents) based on the Phase I effort that demonstrate proof of concept.  We would expect the prototypes to be suitable to support static fire tests and flight tests, with appropriate full scale articles.  The degree to which the offeror can partner with groups capable of supporting these demonstrations will help accelerate acceptance of such concepts.

 

PHASE III: Support further flight tests and provide design and fabrication techniques to support direct insertion of the technology into one or more missile defense systems.

 

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL: Cabling and harnesses provide significant complexities in the development of many categories of commercial platforms.  Innovative approaches in this topic will provide useful spin-off opportunities for commercial wiring harness designs.

 

 

REFERENCES:

1. Kautz, W.H., "Testing for Faults in Wiring Networks", IEEE Transactions on Computers, April 1974 (Vol. 23 No. 4): pp. 358-363.

 

2. Xie, Jingsong et.al. "An Investigation of the Mechanical Behavior of Conductive Elastomer Interconnects", Microelectronics Reliability 41(2001):281-286.

 

KEYWORDS: raceway, Integrated missile harness fairing assembly, Composites, EMI, Lightning strike, Thermal protection systems, Missile structures, Electrical connectors

 

TPOC:                    Chris Olmedo

Phone:                   (505) 853-2867

Fax:                        (703) 271-0674

Email:                    Christopher.Olmedo@kirtland.af.mil

2nd TPOC:            Russ Medley

Phone:                   (256) 955-4763

Fax:                        (256) 955-3614

Email:                    russ.medley@smdc.army.mil

 

 

 

 

MDA08-002                        TITLE: Interceptor Seekers

 

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Sensors, Electronics, Space Platforms, Weapons

 

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: DV

 

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals, their country of origin, and what tasks each would accomplish in the statement of work in accordance with section 3.5.b.(7) of the solicitation.

 

OBJECTIVE: Design, develop and demonstrate highly integrated, compact, high performance, lightweight interceptor seeker technologies to include advanced active, passive and multi-mode seekers, sensors, and seeker components, for RF and EO/IR seekers.  These technologies will be part of an integrated seeker suite and they will be used for insertion into spiral upgrades to current BMDS interceptor systems to enable advanced, agile interceptors to defeat various targets, facilitate discrimination, and defeat the asymmetric threat.  A primary objective is for long range detection, tracking and intercept of all Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) endo- and exo- atmospheric targets in all phases of flight, boost, midcourse and terminal.

 

DESCRIPTION: Key functions of a missile defense interceptor are to detect, track, discriminate, and engage threat objects. Those functions rely on seeker technology to measure line of sight angle, and in some cases, range and range rate, to intercept targets successfully.  They may also measure discrimination data such as IR radiance in multiple bands, target images in several dimensions, and dynamics. Both active and passive seekers, and the combination of them in a gimbal or strapdown (preferred) configuration are critical for future discrimination seekers.

 

This topic calls for passive and active interceptor seekers and their components that will be able to detect, track, and discriminate targets at long ranges (greater than 1000Km) . For passive infrared seekers at 10 micrometer cutoff wavelengths, the following figure of merit should be met: the focal plane array format larger than 256 x256, pixel pitch less than or equal to 30 micrometers,  median specific detectivity larger than 2x1011 cm Hz1/2/watt, uniformity larger than 96%, operability larger than 95%. Focal plane arrays operating at very long infrared with cutoff wavelengths up to 14 micron are also solicited with similar figures of merit. In addition, innovations are sought after for pixel-coregistered multi-band focal plane arrays that have two to four wavebands, i.e., MW/LW, LW/LW+VIS, LW/VLW or MW/LW/LW. Novel ideas in advanced readout circuit are encouraged to address radiation hardness, e.g., Gamma circumvention. Active strapdown seekers to include laser ranger, laser radar and RF, are also to be considered. The innovative concepts, components and technologies to be developed under this topic include multi-mode active/passive seekers and their components, on FPA and near FPA data processing, data rate reduction, and dual Field of View lenses (to enable zoomable lens).

 

Improvements are also sought for interceptor light-weight, compact, strapdown active seeker components. Technologies are sought to substantially advance the performance of line of sight pointing systems, achieving >+/-60 degrees steering with stable submillisecond response across the field of regard. System accuracy should be able to achieve stable microradian accuracy within the period of response. Volume constrains are in the order of 500mL, and stable operation in vacuum is required. Transmitters with chip-scale-packaging, scalable sources for increased ranging are needed.  Compact and efficient fiber sources and integrated systems through advances in slab and solid state lasers demonstrating high power efficiency are also sought. Thermal management and advanced packaging methods are needed to prevent system drift and avoid component instability. Heat removal from advanced electronic processors, cryogenic detectors, laser pump diode sources, require power and cost efficient systems meeting ground test and short mission objectives. Compact cooling systems, heat removal and thermal storage technologies suitable for space environments are desired.  Innovations in small, low cost, rugged, high-power RF seekers and RF seeker components are also sought for millimeter and shorter wavelengths. Technology improvements are needed in lightweight, high efficiency solid-state or tube sources, frequency combiners, radomes, antenna design, and integrated electronics.  Pulsed radar techniques such as coupled oscillator beam steering, and pulse compression in order to realize low cost, compact antennas with maximum resolution are of interest.

 

PHASE I: Research, quantitatively analyze, and develop a conceptual design and assess the feasibility of an active, passive, or multi-mode seeker system or component. In the case of a component it is desirable (budget permitting) that a prototype be developed and demonstrated.

 

PHASE II: Design, develop, and characterize a prototype of the active, passive, or multi-mode seeker system (or component) and demonstrate its functionality. Investigate private sector applications along with military uses of key components developed in Phase II.

 

PHASE III: Develop and execute a plan to manufacture the sensor system, or component(s) developed in Phase II, and assist the Missile Defense Agency in transitioning this technology to the appropriate Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) prime contractor(s) for the engineering integration and testing.

 

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL: The contractor will pursue commercialization of the various technologies and EO/IR components developed in Phase II for potential commercial uses in such diverse fields as law enforcement, rescue and recovery operations, maritime and aviation collision avoidance sensors, medical uses and homeland defense applications.

 

REFERENCES:

1.  W. Dyer, W. Reeves, and G. Dezenberg, “The Advanced Discriminating Interceptor”, AIAA Missile Science Conference Proceedings, 1994.

 

2.  M. Skolnik, “Radar Handbook”, McGraw-Hill, 1990.

 

3. M. Z. Tidrow, “MDA Infrared Sensor Technology Program and Applications”, SPIE Proceedings Vol 5074 (2003), p 39.

 

4. J. L. Miller, Principles of Infrared Technology, Chapman & Hall, 1994.

 

5. A. V. Jelalian, Laser Radar Systems, Artech House, Inc., 1992.

 

6. J.S.Acceta and D.L. Shumaker, “The infrared and electro-optical systems handbook”, SPIE Optical Engineer-ing Press, Bellingham, Washington, 1993.

 

7. Sood, A. K., et. al., “Design and development of multicolor detector arrays,” Proc. SPIE, Vol. 5564, p. 27-33.

 

8. Dhar, N. K. and Tidrow, M. Z., “Large format IRFPA development on Silicon,” Proc. SPIE, Vol. 5564, p. 34-43.

 

9. Trew, R J, “SiC and GaN Transistors—Is There One Winner for Microwave Power Applications?”, Proceedings of the IEEE, June 2002, Vol. 90, Issue 6, pp1032-1047.

 

KEYWORDS: Remote Sensing, Multispectral Imaging, Discrimination, IR Detectors, Spectral Characteristics of Materials

 

TPOC:                    Dr. Meimei Tidrow

Phone:                   (703) 882-6188

Fax:                        (703) 882-6370

Email:                    meimei.tidrow@mda.mil

2nd TPOC:            Mr. Dimitrios Lianos

Phone:                   (256) 955-3223

Fax:                        (256) 955-3614

Email:                    dimitrios.lianos@smdc.army.mil

 

 

 

 

MDA08-003                        TITLE: Advanced Synergistic Structures for Interceptor Kill Vehicles

 

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Materials/Processes, Space Platforms, Weapons

 

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: DEP

 

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals, their country of origin, and what tasks each would accomplish in the statement of work in accordance with section 3.5.b.(7) of the solicitation.

 

OBJECTIVE: Develop technology for an interceptor Kill Vehicle (KV) that integrates disparate components into the load bearing structure to increase the performance of the KV.

 

DESCRIPTION: The phrase “Synergistic Structures” in this context refers to Structures with multiple functions (e.g., fuel tanks or batteries  that function as load-bearing KV structure and/or protect against hostile environment) or structures with embedded components (e.g., electrical, optical, power, cabling, propulsion, sub-structures, isolation, etc).  The synergy must not compromise the integrity of the interceptor.  The MDA has funded numerous technology development programs that could be applied toward KVs.  However, many of these efforts focused on an individual component without the consideration of combining components into a system to save mass, volume, and ensure structural integrity. The MDA is interested in developing revolutionary and evolutionary KV technologies that will significantly improve key performance parameters (speed, volume, mass, accuracy, agility, etc.).  In recent years, a number of new technologies have emerged (new materials, nano-research, component/electronic miniaturization, enhanced kill effects, etc.) that make it feasible to integrate components in a system without degradation of other subsystems.  This effort will focus on the development of embedded components of previously independent structures/subsystems with considerations to the following:  radiation shielding, structural stability, harmonics, mass, reduced part count, enhanced lethality, and reduced volume.  Additionally, the structural system must be designed to the operational environment (temperature variations, high acoustic levels, maneuvering loads, high shock loads, HAENS level 2, and severe vibration loads).   Proposals should provide sufficient detail to allow the evaluation team to ascertain the potential benefits and risks associated with the concept and describe the system-level benefits.  

 

PHASE I: Develop initial design concept; conduct analytical and experimental efforts to demonstrate proof-of-principle; develop preliminary design complete with documentation that will provide proof-of-functionality; and model or produce/demonstrate “breadboard operational prototype” to ensure proof of basic design concept.  Proposed concepts should be modeled with representative KV-type environment.  The contractor will provide any embedded components for models, breadboards, etc.  Simulated embedded components may be substituted for actual components if their use is substantiated by analyses.  The contractor will develop a Phase II strategy plan that includes (but not limited to) development and integration strategy, potential demonstration opportunities, program schedule, and estimated costs. 

 

PHASE II: Design and fabricate a prototype structural concept that could be demonstrated in a representative KV environment.  The goal is to transition and commercialize this technology by developing working relationships with the relevant BMDS systems and contractors. The contractor will provide any embedded components for prototypes. 

 

PHASE III: Develop and execute a plan to manufacture the sensor system, or component(s) developed in Phase II, and assist the Missile Defense Agency in transitioning this technology to the appropriate Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) prime contractor(s) for the engineering integration and testing. The contractor will provide any embedded components. 

 

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL: The commercial potential for highly integrated/synergistic structures is immense in the aerospace, automobile, and infrastructure industries.  

 

REFERENCES:

1.  Starr, A.F., et al., “Fabrication and Characterization of a Negative-Index Composite Metamaterial,” Physical Review B, Vol. 70, 113102 (2004).

 

2.  Adams, J.H., “Radiation Shielding Materials,” AIAA 2001-0326, 39th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting and Exhibit,  Reno, NV, 8 January 2001.

 

3.  Wilson, J.W., et al, “E-Beam-Cure Fabrication Polymer Fiber/Matrix Composites for Multifunctional Radiation Shielding,” AIAA 2004-6029, Space 2004 Conference and Exhibit, San Diego, CA, 28-30 September 2004.

 

4. Thostenson, E.T., Ren, Z, Chou T-W, “Advances in the science and technology of carbon nanotubes and their composite: a review” Composites Science and Technology, 61, pages 1899-1912, 2001.

 

5. Ruffin, P. B. “Nanotechnology for Missiles” Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices, Proc. Of SPIE, Vol. 5359, Bellingham WA, 2004.

 

KEYWORDS: Synergistic Structures, Integrated Structures, Kill Vehicles, Radiation Shielding, Communications, Optics, Composite Materials, Nano-Materials

 

TPOC:                    Brandon Arritt

Phone:                   (505) 853-2611

Fax:                        (505) 846-7877

Email:                    brandon.arritt@kirtland.af.mil

2nd TPOC:            Joe Ratliffe

Phone:                   (703) 882-6175

Fax:                        (703) 882-6370

Email:                    joseph.ratliffe@mda.mil

 

 

 

 

MDA08-004                        TITLE: Interceptor Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) Algorithms

 

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Information Systems, Weapons

 

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: DV

 

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals, their country of origin, and what tasks each would accomplish in the statement of work in accordance with section 3.5.b.(7) of the solicitation.

 

OBJECTIVE: This SBIR topic will seek development and demonstration of: a) advanced Guidance, Navigation, and  Control (GNC) kill vehicle (KV) algorithms with emphasis on engaging maneuvering targets during boost, midcourse, or terminal phase of their flight and, b) Multiple Kill Vehicle (MKV) weapon-target assignment and collision avoidance algorithms for enhanced interceptor KV agility and guidance flexibility. Performance goals include the minimization of interceptor control energy, miss distance, and reliance on a priori data.

 

DESCRIPTION: GNC algorithms include interceptor and KV guidance algorithms (including estimators, guidance laws, and controllers) for kinetic kill intercept, especially against advanced maneuvering threats. Threat trajectory uncertainty due to maneuvering capability could stress our interceptor’s response time and maneuverability requirements.

 

The objective of this topic is to demonstrate novel algorithms in the following areas, in order of priority:

(1) estimation, (2) guidance, and (3) control for a specified missile concept. Responses may concentrate in any one of the areas or preferably provide an integrated approach. Algorithms that enhance the probability of successful kill-vehicle (weapon)-to-target paring for multiple kill vehicle missiles are desired as are also algorithms  to defend against maneuvering targets during all phases of the engagement time line.  Algorithms should support dual sensor systems, such as combined passive and active seeker kill-vehicles.

 

Proposed algorithm design methodologies must start with a configuration description and technical specifications for the kill-vehicle, sensors, and actuators. The design methodologies must incorporate any novel approaches into an integrated design including the various missile components.

 

PHASE I: Develop algorithms that will provide a high probability of kill against maneuvering threats. Demonstrate algorithm performance in an integrated, Model and Simulation environment of sufficient fidelity.

 

PHASE II: Optimize results of Phase I, evaluate and mature algorithms developed in Phase I in a 6-DOF test bed, and validate the algorithms in real time hardware in the loop facilities. The goal is to transition and commercialize this technology by developing working relationships with the relevant BMDS systems and contractors