BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENSE ORGANIZATION (BMDO)
The BMDO SBIR program is implemented, administrated and managed by the BMDO Office of the Chief Scientist. The Acting BMDO SBIR Program Manager is Frank Rucky. If you have any questions regarding the administration of the BMDO SBIR program please call 1-800-WIN-BMDO. Additional information on the BMDO SBIR Program can be found on the BMDO SBIR home page at http://www.winbmdo.com. Information regarding the Ballistic Missile Defense Organization’s mission and programs can be found at http://www.acq.osd.mil/bmdo/bmdolink/html/.
The fundamental
objective of the Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) program is to develop the
capability to defend the forces and territories of the United States, its
Allies, and friends against all classes of ballistic missile threats. The goal
of the BMD System (BMDS) is a layered defense that provides multiple engagement
opportunities along the entire flight path of a ballistic missile. We will
explore and demonstrate kinetic and directed energy kill mechanisms for
potential sea-, ground-, air-, and space-based operations to engage threat
missiles in the boost, midcourse, and terminal phases of flight. In parallel,
sensor suites and battle management and command and control (BMC2) will be
developed to form the backbone of the BMD System.
The boost phase is
that part of flight when the ballistic missile’s rocket motors are ignited and
propel the entire missile system towards space. It lasts roughly 3 to 5 minutes
for a long-range missile and as little as 1 to 2 minutes for a short-range
missile. When the missile boosters are spent, the missile continues its ascent
into what we call the midcourse part of flight (which lasts nominally 20
minutes for a long-range missile). In this stage of flight, a ballistic missile
releases its payload warhead(s), submunitions, and/or penetration aids it
carried into space. The missile enters what we call the terminal phase when the
missile or the elements of its payload, for example, its warheads, reenter the
atmosphere. This is a very short phase, lasting from a few minutes to less than
a minute. There are opportunities and challenges to engage a threat missile in
each of these phases.
The primary
Terminal Defense Segment project is the Theater High Altitude Area Defense
(THAAD) system. The mission of the THAAD System is to defend against short- and
medium-range ballistic missiles at significant distances from the intended
target and at high altitudes. This evolutionary program is structured to
demonstrate capability in 2004, with planned improvements based on upgraded seekers,
ground support equipment, and discrimination software. Current efforts are
addressing component and system performance, producibility, and
supportability.
The Midcourse
Defense Segment program is divided into Ground-based Midcourse Systems and Sea-Based
Midcourse Systems. The Ground-based Midcourse System has three objectives: 1)
to develop and demonstrate an integrated system capable of countering known and
expected threats; 2) to provide an integrated test bed that provides realistic
tests and reliable data for further system development; and 3) to create a
development path allowing for an early capability based on success in
testing. The Sea-based Midcourse System
is intended to intercept hostile missiles in the ascent phase of midcourse
flight, which when accompanied by ground-based system, provides a complete
midcourse layer. The Sea-based Midcourse System will build upon technologies in
the existing Aegis Weapon System and the Standard Missile infrastructures and
will be used against short and medium range threats.
The mission of the
Boost Defense Segment is to define and develop boost phase intercept missile
defense capabilities. To engage ballistic missiles in this phase, quick
reaction times, high confidence decision-making, and multiple engagement
capabilities are needed. The development of higher power lasers and faster
interceptor capabilities are required. There are four principal objectives for
the Boost Defense Segment. First, it will seek to demonstrate and make
available the Airborne Laser (ABL). Second, it will define and evolve
space-based and sea-based kinetic energy Boost Phase Intercept concepts. Third,
this segment will execute a proof-of-concept Space-Based Interceptor Experiment
(SBX). Fourth, it will continue Space-Based Laser (SBL) risk reduction on a
path to a proof-of-concept SBL Integrated Flight Experiment (SBL-IFX). Kinetic
boost phase intercept is a challenge because the threat missile must be
detected and confirmed within a few seconds of launch. It then becomes a race
between an accelerating ballistic missile and the interceptor in which the
threat missile has had a head start. Another technical challenge is designing a
kill vehicle that can detect and track the target following missile-staging
events and then impact the missile in the presence of a brilliant plume. We are
considering a sea-based boost activity to develop a high-speed,
high-acceleration booster coupled with a boost kill vehicle.
A satellite system
intended to support missile defense operations is the Space-Based Infra-Red
Sensor (SBIRS). SBIRS-Low, in conjunction with SBIRS-High (developed by the Air
Force), form the SBIRS system, which will consist of satellites in
Geosynchronous Orbits (GEO), Highly Elliptical Orbits (HEO) and Low Earth
Orbits (LEO) and an integrated centralized ground station serving all SBIRS
space elements and Defense Support Program (DSP) satellites. The focus of BMDO
is on SBIRS-Low, which will incorporate new technologies to enhance detection;
improve reporting of Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), Sea-Launched
Ballistic Missile (SLBM) and tactical ballistic missiles; and provide critical
mid-course tracking and discrimination data for BMD.
Finally, the Science and Technology (S&T) Program will develop components, subsystems and new concepts needed to keep pace with the evolving ballistic missile threat. The primary focus of the Technology Segment is the development of sensors and weapons for future platforms that can complement today’s missile defense capabilities. Specific projects include the development of a doppler radar to be used in a missile seeker, the demonstration of active and interactive midcourse discrimination techniques, the design and development of miniature kill vehicles for boost and midcourse application, and the development and/or testing of space relay mirrors for laser tracking systems. In addition to thrust area projects, investments are made in technology at the component level to improve the state-of-the-art in radars, infrared sensors, lasers, optics, propulsion, wide band gap materials, and photonic devices.
The intent of BMDO’s Small Business Innovation Research
Program is to seek out the most innovative technology that might improve the
performance or reduce the cost of ongoing development programs in BMD. Proposing companies need not know specific
details or requirements of specific BMDO systems; but in order for them to
propose technology applications that may be relevant to ballistic missile
defense programs, it will helpful for them to understand related research and
development goals or specific technology needs.
The BMDO goal in Phase I is to pursue as many innovative research concepts and approaches as possible offering potential military as well as non-military applications as the result of commercialization for Government or private sector markets. The BMDO goal in Phase II is to develop those technologies that hold the most promise, considering feasibility, relevance, and transition opportunity. A strong indication of that promise is an identified sponsor for the proposed project (from government or industry) who will apply the demonstrated technology in a product to meet BMD needs.
BMDO intends for Phase I to
be only an examination of the merit of the concept or technology that still
involves technical risk, with a cost under $70,000. Although proposed cost will not affect selection for negotiation,
contracting may be delayed if BMDO determines that award should be made for
less than the proposed cost. Do not submit the same proposal, or
variations thereof, to more than one BMDO topic area. If BMDO decides that a
proposal is relevant to another topic, the proposal will be passed on to
reviewers in that topic area. It is
strongly suggested that you do not use the title of the BMDO SBIR Topic as the
title of your Phase I or Phase II proposal.
Preferably, titles should reflect the innovativeness or other value
added of your proposal in responding to a specific BMD need encompassed by the
Topic.
Proposers are required to
register and submit their entire proposal through the DoD Electronic Submission
Website (http://www.dodsbir.net/submission).
As instructed on the website, the proposal should include a BMDO Proposal Cover
Sheet, Cost Proposal, and Company Commercialization Report. Proposals shall be uploaded via the DoD
Electronic Submission Website by the solicitation close date and time.
Proposals sent by other means will not be accepted; hard copy submissions of
Phase I proposals will no longer be accepted.
Note, however, that a signed original of the Cover Sheet must be
submitted by mail to the following address:
Ballistic Missile Defense Organization
ATTN: ST/SBIR
(Rucky)
7100 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 20301-7100
Proposals and signed Cover Sheets received after the closing date
will not be processed.
Phase II is the demonstration of the technology that was found feasible in Phase I. BMDO selects awardees for Phase II developments through two competitive processes: a routine competition among Phase I awardees that have been invited to submit Phase II proposals; and a Fast Track competition for Phase I awardees that are able to propose independent funding as part of their Phase II application.
The BMDO SBIR PM or one of BMDO’s executing agents for SBIR contracts will inform Phase I participants of their invitation to submit a Phase II proposal. Fast Track submissions do not require an invitation; see DoD’s Fast Track guidelines. Phase II proposals may be submitted for an amount normally not to exceed $750,000. Companies may, however, identify requirements with justification for amounts in excess of $750,000. The preferred contract type for BMDO Phase II awards is Firm-Fixed Price.
Proposal Submission
If you have been invited to submit a Phase II proposal,
please see the BMDO SBIR website http://www.winbmdo.com
for further instructions. Starting
this year, Phase II proposals for BMDO topics will be received and evaluated
during one specific period of time.
Companies who may choose not to submit Phase II proposals to meet the
specific submission date are at liberty to submit proposals as part of the
succeeding competition instead.
Phase I projects currently being performed will compete for Phase II awards according to the same guidelines as published at the time of the Phase I award. For SBIR projects selected under this solicitation, the following schedule will guide the submission and evaluation of Phase II proposals:
Phase II Key Dates
October 1-October 18, 2002: Submission of Proposals
October 21-November 22, 2002: Evaluation of Proposals
December 2002: First awards
By conducting two competitions annually and conducting evaluations on this expedited basis, BMDO expects to minimize lag times between completion of Phase I efforts and award of Phase II contracts. BMDO’s executing agents may still exercise the prerogative, however, to arrange limited transitional funding to assist a successful Phase II competitor during the period prior to award of the Phase II contract.
SBIR Fast Track Program
The Fast Track Program is a Phase II option that is available for SBIR awardees that have attracted matching funds from a non-SBIR/non-STTR government program or an outside investor for the proposed Phase II SBIR effort. In preceding years, BMDO offered a tailored Fast Track process (called “Fastrack”). That process will no longer be followed, and BMDO instead will participate in the DoD Fast Track program, as explained in the DoD solicitation.
SBIR Phase II Enhancement Policy
To encourage the transition of SBIR research into BMDO acquisition programs, BMDO has implemented a Phase II Enhancement Policy. Under this policy, BMDO will allow extension of an existing Phase II contract for up to one year and will provide additional Phase II funding of up to $250,000, either: 1) as matching funds for non-SBIR BMDO funds directed to the Phase II contract; or 2) as transitional funding in anticipation of Phase III, based on a letter of intent to the BMDO SBIR PM from a BMDO acquisition program that will award a Phase III contract.
BMDO/02-001 - Directed Energy
Concepts and Components
BMDO/02-002 - Kinetic Energy
Kill Vehicles and Components
BMDO/02-003 - Sensors and
Surveillance
BMDO/02-004 - Manufacturing
Sciences and Technology/Unit Cost Reduction
BMDO/02-005 - Non-Nuclear
Power Sources and Power Conditioning
BMDO/02-006 - Propulsion and
Logistics Systems
BMDO/02-007 – Thermal
Management
BMDO/02-008 - Survivability
Technology
BMDO/02-009 – Lethality and
Vulnerability
BMDO/02-010 – Computer
Systems, Algorithms, and Models/Simulations
BMDO/02-011 – Photonics
BMDO/02-012 – Structural
Materials, Concepts, Components and Composites
BMDO/02-013 – not used
BMDO/02-014 - Electronics and
Superconductivity
BMDO/02-015 – not used
BMDO/02-016 - Surprises and
Opportunities
BMDO FY02 SBIR TOPIC DESCRIPTIONS
Introduction: As part of BMDO’s charter to provide
for defense against future missile threats, various programs are created to
further validate potential technologies to design, develop, and deploy systems
in support of various efforts. These
new programs provide future decision-makers an option to greatly enhance the
capabilities of future TMD and NMD systems.
BMDO investigates directed energy technologies for both TMD and NMD
applications. As such, a significant
investment is made each year in the continued development of increasingly
sophisticated systems which may eventually find their utilization in a
ballistic missile technology program or major defense acquisition program. All areas of the electromagnetic spectrum
provide potential avenues toward finding and disabling a ballistic missile in
flight. Furthermore, components,
sub-components, and piece part specifics are constantly under evaluation by the
various TMD and NMD elements for replacement by the latest technology
developments from industry. Current examples include the Space Based Laser and
the Airborne Laser, and any other comparable sub-system, component, or
subcomponent that can potentially support next generation developments. Research or Research and Development efforts
selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical
risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully
established.
Description:
BMDO seeks new, innovative and applied research toward advanced
technology developments in the generation, propagation, and detection of
directed energy in all forms and for the measurement of material properties of
irradiated materials and structures. Dual-use
systems under consideration include, but are not limited to, solid-state lasers
(i.e. diode lasers), chemical lasers, excimer lasers, IR/Vis/UV lasers, agile
lasers x-ray lasers, gamma-ray lasers, free electron lasers, particle beams,
radio-frequency (RF) and millimeter wave (MMW) devices, and other unique hybrid
approaches including explosively or electrically driven devices. Included
herein are such topics as beam control, target acquisition, tracking and
pointing, mirrors, beam propagation and steering, optics, antennas, conversion
methods, quasi-phased matched non-linear optics (QPM NMO’s), thermal management
and heat removal for space, air, and ground based systems, countermeasures,
coatings, deployable space optics, distributed apertures, and
micro-optical-mechanical devices incorporating these aspects. Furthermore, any component or subcomponent
that is utilized by any of these systems is of interest. Components, sub-components, or piece part
specifics may be ground, air, or space based in their final application.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company A, whose advanced x-ray source
is being utilized for waste sterilization, was sponsored from this topic. Company B utilized their tunable filters
with the citrus industry and for military hyperspectral image applications.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 --- Materials/Processes
#7 --- Sensors
#8 --- Electronics
#10---
Battlespace Environemnts
#11--- Space Platforms
#12 – Weapons
#13 – Nuclear Technology
BMDO 02-002 Kinetic Energy Kill Vehicles and
Components
Introduction:
Potential adversaries are expected to improve their ballistic missile systems
and develop countermeasures to U.S. ballistic missile defense programs. The future designs of potential threat
improvements that BMDO must address can not be determined explicitly. Broad-based kinetic energy interceptor
technologies will potentially contribute to more than one program and possibly
to more than one defense area. These
kinetic energy weapons benefit from innovations offered in 1) discrimination,
2) sensors and seekers, 3) guidance, navigation and control, and 4)
affordability. Research or Research and Development efforts selected under this
topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical risk where the
technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully established.
Description: Kinetic energy (KE) weapons candidates
presently include a variety of ground and space based interceptor
concepts. System elements include
ground-based launchers, axial and divert motors/nozzles, smart projectile
components, and endo/exoatmospheric guidance and control mechanisms. Technology challenges for KE systems
include: high accuracy seekers; active seekers; ultra-compact laser radar; dual
mode (radar/IR or ladar/IR) seekers; simultaneous multispectral focal plane
arrays (FPAs); wavelength-tunable FPAs; multicolor long wavelength FPAs;
miniature hit-to-kill interceptors; finding the booster hardbody within a
booster plume; high performance axial and divert propulsion sub-systems
(especially very low mass divert and attitude control systems); miniature
inertial navigation units; array signal processing; missile autopilots;
long-range acquisition and multi-target tracking; distinguishing between lethal
objects in the presence of decoys, chaff, aerosols, debris and other
countermeasures (i.e. discrimination); electronic counter-countermeasure
negation; lethality/miss distance; mitigating aero-optical effects and
aero-thermal effects; optimal hit-to-kill homing navigation; shroud separation;
IR window technology for hypervelocity endoatmospheric interceptors (including
high temperature optical materials, self-compensating missile windows, low-cost
AlON, and non-conventional window architectures); solid-state millimeter wave
seekers; non-nuclear kill warhead performance; operations in a hostile
environment; performance (including survivability of electronics); battle
management; fire control; guidance and control; projectile launch
survivability; and common among all systems reliability, producibility, safety
(non-hazardous operation), maintainability, and lower-cost/lower-mass. New concepts and technologies that produce a
much higher probability of hit-to-kill intercepts are required to support
applications. Impact point selection
technologies, instrumentation, concepts, and innovative methodologies are
sought.
Phase I: Demonstrate the likelihood
that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet any of the
broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful
Phase 3/Dual-Use Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company C advanced the
metal armature developments for military railgun efforts. Company D began with a bone implantation
technology and international investments that resulted from divert motor rocket
nozzles and have subsequently spun-out three other companies. Company E, with a market cap of $38M+,
expanded with technology genesis from this topic to a dynamic frame seeker and
chip-stacking developments. Company F
supported ballistic missile defense efforts with their enhanced lethality
kinetic energy projectile and has subsequently graduated out of the small business
status, but continues to support the DoD in R&D efforts and was purchased
by a Fortune 500 company Nov 1999.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Material/Processes
#10--- Space Platforms
#12--- Weapons
Introduction:
BMDO investigates various sensor technologies for both TMD and NMD
applications. As such, a significant
investment is made each year in the continued development of increasingly
robust and sophisticated sensor systems which may eventually find their utilization
in a ballistic missile technology program or major defense acquisition
program. All areas of the
electromagnetic spectrum provide potential avenues toward finding and disabling
a ballistic missile in flight.
Furthermore, sensor systems, components, sub-components, and piece part
specifics are constantly under evaluation by the various TMD and NMD elements
for replacement by the latest technology developments from industry. Research
or Research and Development efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate
and involve a degree of technical risk where the technical feasibility of the
proposed work has not been fully established.
Description: Sensors and their associated
systems/sub-systems will function as the "eyes and ears" for
ballistic missile defense applications, providing early warning of attack,
target detection/classification/identification, target tracking,
discrimination, and kill assessment. New and innovative approaches to these
requirements using unconventional and innovative techniques are encouraged
across a broad band of the electromagnetic spectrum, from radar to gamma
rays. Passive, active, and interactive
techniques for discriminating targets from backgrounds, debris, and decoys, in
the presence of chaff, aerosols, electronic countermeasures, and other
penetration aids are specifically sought.
Sensor-related device technology is also needed. Examples of some of the technology specific
areas are: higher efficiency and higher power radar transmit/receive modules
(employing GaN technology); advanced digital array radars; efficient radar
cooling; lightweight radar antennas; long-life cryogenic coolers (open and
closed systems); cryogenic heat transfer; superconducting focal plane detector
arrays (for both the IR and sub-mm spectral regions); next generation focal
plane arrays (FPAs); signal and data processing algorithms (for both
conventional focal planes and interferometric imaging systems- ultraspectral or
hyper spectral imaging); low-power optical and sub-mm wave beam steering;
range-doppler lidar and radar; passive focal plane imaging (long-wavelength
infrared to ultra-violet; novel information processing to maximize resolution
while minimizing detector element densities); large format focal plane arrays
(from UV to VLWIR); high sensitivity uncooled FPAs; advanced very long
wavelength FPAs; interferometry (both passive and with active illumination);
QWIPs; quantum wires and quantum dots; strained-layer superlattice detectors;
integrated multispectral FPAs, gamma-ray detection; neutron detection;
intermediate power frequency agile lasers; lightweight compact efficient fixed
frequency radiation sources for space-based ballistic missile defense
applications (UV-sub-mm wave), new optics and optical materials. Entirely new and high-risk approaches are
also sought. Please indicate the particular identifying letter your specific
proposal/technology addresses:
BMDO/00-003A - Acoustic and Seismic
BMDO/00-003B - Radar and MMW
BMDO/00-003C - UV (<0.3 microns)
BMDO/00-003D - Visible (0.3 - 0.9 microns)
BMDO/00-003E - IR (>0.9 microns)
BMDO/00-003F - Gamma/X-Ray
BMDO/00-003G - Other
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful
Phase 3/Dual-Use Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company G, with annual
commercial sales of $15M+, is noted for its laser diode pumped Q-switched solid
state laser products developed under this topic. Company H, with a market cap of $128M+, transferred its microwave
based infrared detector and superconducting millimeter wave mixer technologies
funded under this topic for a variety of cryogenic systems and products. Company OO’s high power laser array
transmitters are utilized on military and commercial satellites for
communications. Company QQ, purchased
by a larger company in Jun 00, received funding from this topic for their target surveillance, pointing,
acquisition, and tracking sensors used by both military and civilian customers.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Material/Processes
#7 --- Sensors
#8 ---
Electronics
#9 ---
Battlespace Environments
#10---
Space Platforms
#11---
Human Systems
#12---
Weapons
BMDO 02-004 Manufacturing
Sciences and Technology/Unit Cost Reduction
Introduction:
BMDO continually investigates various diverse technologies for both TMD
and NMD applications. As such, advanced
technology demonstrations for affordability and advanced industrial practices
to demonstrate the combination of both improved manufacturing process
technologies and improved business methods are of interest. BMDO makes significant investments each year
in the continued development of increasingly survivable, robust and
sophisticated technology based systems.
All areas of research, engineering, and manufacturing process
technologies provide potential avenues toward finding and disabling a ballistic
missile in flight. Furthermore, entire
sensor systems, components, sub-components, or piece part specifics are
constantly under evaluation by the various TMD and NMD elements for replacement
by the latest technology developments from industry. Proposed efforts funded under this topic may encompass any
specific manufacturing process technology at any level resulting in a unit cost
reduction. Research or Research and
Development efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a
degree of technical risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work
has not been fully established.
Description: BMDO seeks drastically lower unit cost of
all components through manufacturing revolutions and through leveraging of high
volume production from commercial sales.
This will result in an improvement in the affordability of new ballistic
missile defense systems and the development of cost effective methods to
sustain existing developments while impacting the next generation of
acquisition systems. Affordability is a
significant factor in all aspects of the total life-cycle consideration of any
military program. Innovative approaches
that will allow BMDO to economically acquire new technologies for the next
generation of ballistic missile defense systems and maintain these systems
while providing for their upgrades will make total life-cycle costs more
affordable. Whereas all other BMDO SBIR
topics seek first and foremost a revolution in the military capability of the
technology, this topic seeks only a revolution in the reduction of unit cost
specifics. BMDO seeks herein only
projects that are too risky for ordinary capital investment by the private
sector. The proposals must include and will be judged, in part, on an economic
analysis of the expected market impact and the viability of the product
proposed. Incremental advancements will
receive very little consideration.
Innovative manufacturing technologies which reduce the cost per unit,
repair, or remanufacturing/reengineering of entire sensor systems, components,
sub-components, or piece part specifics are under consideration.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful
Phase 3/Dual-Use Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company J, with a
market cap of $42M+, founded its technology developments under this topic with
low-cost radioisotope-powered voltaic cells for military applications and a
wide variety of other commercially viable electronic material based applications
to include quantum-wire lasers.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#10---
Space Platforms
#12---
Weapons
BMDO 02-005 Non-Nuclear Power Sources and
Power Conditioning
Introduction: New and unique non-nuclear power
sources and new materials and electronics that provide for the efficient use of
power are under consideration by BMDO for both TMD and NMD applications. New technology could conceivably provide
support to future systems, which may eventually find their utilization in a
ballistic missile technology program or major defense acquisition program. All areas of power technology, except
nuclear power, provide potential avenues toward finding and disabling a
ballistic missile in flight. BMDO SBIR
shall not consider any nuclear power source proposal. Furthermore, entire power source systems, components,
sub-components, and piece part specifics are constantly under evaluation by the
various component TMD and NMD elements for replacement by the latest technology
developments from industry. Research or Research and Development efforts
selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical
risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully
established.
Description: New technologies for producing, storing and
conditioning power which provide substantial improvements in lower recurring
cost, lower mass, and/or smaller size are sought for all ballistic missile
defense applications. New concepts for
compact power sources and power conditioning devices for transportable or
mobile systems at 200 kW to 1 MW also need to have high efficiency, low
signatures, and high reliability. Power generation, power storage, and power
conditioning devices that operate at cryogenic temperatures for use in a new
concept for all cryogenic systems are sought. Space assets' power sources in
the 0.5 to 5 kW power range, including solar arrays and their photovoltaic
cells, need to tolerate high natural radiation levels. Energy storage systems, rechargeable fuel
cells, or novel battery technologies with cycle lifetimes of up to 40,000
cycles are sought that may be utilized in low earth orbit sensor satellites,
airborne platforms, or ground based assets.
Onboard power sources for interceptor missiles that are periodically
testable, have a quick start-up capability, and produce high power for short
time intervals (up to five minutes). Power conditioning systems and components
for space assets should provide very high efficiency.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful
Phase 3/Dual-Use Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company K, with a
market cap of $22+, has provided for commercializing its self-restoring fault
current limiter after it was incorporated into military efforts. Company MM, with a market cap of $714M+, has
developed new solar cells with increased efficiencies that are utilized by both
military and civilian interest.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Material/Processes
#4 --- Ground and
Sea Vehicles
#10---
Space Platforms
#12---
Weapons
BMDO 02-006 Propulsion and Logistics Systems
Introduction: BMDO is constantly investigating various propulsion technologies for both TMD and NMD applications. Significant investments are made each year in the continued development of increasingly robust and responsive systems which may eventually find their utilization in a ballistic missile technology program or major defense acquisition programs. All areas of propulsion technology provide potential avenues toward finding and disabling a ballistic missile in flight. Furthermore, entire propulsion systems, components, sub-components, and piece part specifics are constantly under evaluation by the various TMD and NMD elements for replacement by the latest technology developments from industry. Research or Research and Development efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully established.
Description: In general, missile defense places unprecedented demands on all types of propulsion systems; for interceptors and satellites. Specifically, advancements are needed to achieve major reductions in the costs of placing and maintaining payloads in desired locations, high thrust boosters, non-toxic divert/attitude control systems. Approaches leading to techniques, methods, processes, and products in support of these propulsion and logistics objectives are sought. Advancements are needed in propulsion-related areas, e.g. extending storage time of cryogenic fluids (e.g. H2 and Xe) and, reduction of contamination from effluents. Areas of interest include the entire spectrum of space transportation and support: efficient launch systems for small technological payloads to very large system payloads; assembly and control systems; expendable and recoverable components; improved structures and materials; and increased propulsion efficiency. Low mass or miniature interceptors require advances in divert (small thrusters) propulsion systems (either solid or liquid). Boost phase interceptors need high thrust (10-50 G), low-mass boosters. High acceleration, low-mass divert and attitude control systems (DACS) greater than 5Gs are sought. High temperature nozzles and other DACS components are of great interest. Less hazardous propellants for DACS are also needed.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company L developed a laser radar
tracking technology that finds commercial use in laser eye-surgery
applications, but was also investigated for tracking ballistic missiles in
flight.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Material/Processes
#10---
Space Platforms
#12---
Weapons
BMDO 02-007 Thermal
Management
Introduction: BMDO constantly investigates various
thermal management and cooling technologies for both TMD and NMD
applications. Therefore, a significant
investment is made each year in the continued development of increasingly
robust and sophisticated heating/cooling system technologies, which may
eventually find their utilization in a ballistic missile technology program or
major defense acquisition program.
Furthermore, thermal management (heating and cooling) systems,
components, sub-components, and piece part specifics are constantly under
evaluation by the various TMD and NMD elements for replacement by the latest
technology developments from industry. Research or Research and Development
efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of
technical risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not
been fully established.
Description: Higher power levels of various ballistic
missile defense assets must dissipate heat at state-of-the-art capabilities for
waste thermal energy acquisition, transport, and dissipation to space. Technology advancements are required in
thermal management for power generation systems, space platform payloads, heat
pump radiators, laser diodes, diode fibers,
slab lasers and an increased emphasis on all associated electronics
including high power density wide bandgap devices. Some space platforms will
require years of storage of large amounts of cryogen with minimum cryogenic
loss and high cryogen delivery rates under condition of zero-g. As such, very long life space cryocoolers
are of specific interest. Concepts,
devices, and advanced technologies for all types of space-based power cycles
are sought which can satisfy these projected ground/air/space platform
requirements.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Currently addressing electric vehicle
technology applications for military and commercial interest, Company M got its
initial start, and now with a market cap of $190M+, with active magnetic
vibration isolation controls funded under this topic. Company SS developed a radiation hardened accelerometer that is
used in the Safe-and-Arm device of the PAC-3 missile and by half of the
automotive airbags in the U.S.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#4 --- Ground and
Sea Vehicles
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#10---
Space Platforms
#12--- Weapons
BMDO 02-008 Survivability
Technology
Introduction: Missile defense elements must operate
and survive against determined attacks.
Threat actions can generate a reasonable set of hostile man-made
environments before and during operations. Collateral environments and natural
space environments (atomic oxygen, space radiation and micrometeorites/debris)
provide additional technical challenges, which also affect civilian assets.
Survivability engineering technology and survivability enhancement options are
required to achieve a cost-effective, yet integrated solution to a dynamic and
diverse set of hostile environments with a focus toward improving aspects of
threat sensing, hardening, passive defense, and camouflage, concealment and
deception (CCD). Research or Research and Development efforts selected under
this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical risk where the
technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully established.
Description:
Sensor technologies enable the defense elements to detect nuclear
events, laser and radio frequency weapon attacks, and to respond
appropriately. Sensor technologies that
can characterize the threat according to direction of attack, and spectral
characteristics are currently under consideration. Technologies to enhance
passive defense missile systems, ground/air/space assets, and support equipment
are needed to operate against the threat support sensors, including radar,
passive visible/IR sensors and seekers, and laser radar.
Passive
hardening against the nuclear, laser, RF, ballistic and debris environments is
specifically needed, in addition to novel radiation hardening technologies and
approaches against the natural space environments. Sensor technologies and
their associated systems, communications antennas (RF and laser), attitude
sensors, solar power, propulsion, structure and thermal control are all
directly exposed to nuclear, laser, RF and debris in addition to the natural
space environments. Materials and component designs, which are intrinsically
hard to these environments, and/or protective devices are needed, specifically
with dual-use commercialization applications.
A key ballistic missile defense area of consideration is seeker/sensor
subsystems, the components of which (baffle materials, mirrors, optics,
structures, focal plane arrays, read out electronics, and processing) must
survive the laser, nuclear, IR, and natural environments, as well as,
contamination from booster plumes and natural environments. Nuclear and laser
hard concepts, materials, and devices for protection against unknown or agile
lasers and rejection of RF energy.
Structures and coatings providing appropriate thermal characteristics,
stability under mechanical impulses and hardness to laser and RF radiation are
needed. Processors, high-power ICs, and
other electronic devices capable of operating in unique hostile environments
presented by the strategic applications while retaining full functionality are
desired. Long term space (commercial and government) applications are direct
beneficiaries of these advanced technology developments. Countermeasures and integration of CCD
technologies are particular useful to the operational forces and, in general,
attempt to incorporate the latest military and commercial technologies to
ensure an effective response to any advanced threat. Novel concepts and techniques that reduce the vulnerability of
ballistic missile defense systems will increase the operational confidence
level of dedicated assets. A new class
of weapons technologies are evolving incorporating non-lethal methods. These have a broad range of applications as
a survivability countermeasure or must themselves be countered to assure full
operability. Non-lethal technology
efforts in this area have dual-use applications.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful
Phase 3/Dual-Use Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company N, with a
market cap of $2,300M+, got started with its hardened electronics for military
environments and civilian applications.
Company O markets holographic products to the commercial market that
started with rugate filters for sensor protection of military optics.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#7 --- Sensors
#10---
Space Platforms
#12---
Weapons
#13---
Nuclear Technology
BMDO 02-009 Lethality and Vulnerability
Introduction: In implementing its TMD and NMD
program activities, BMDO is continuing its developments of such efforts as the
PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile system which has four major
systems components: radar, engagement control station, launching station, and
interceptors. The Navy Area Wide system
will develop a sea-based capability that builds upon the existing
AEGIS/Standard Missile air defense system.
This system is based on the AEGIS-class cruisers and destroyers, which
provide all elements of missile defense and are particularly suited to
protecting forces moving inland from the sea.
The Theater High-Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD) system will form
the largest umbrella of missile protection in a specific theater, arching over
all other missile defense systems.
THAAD consists of four major systems components: truck-mounted launchers;
interceptors; radar system; and battle management, command, control,
communications, and intelligence (BMC3I).
These increasingly sophisticated systems will provide the opportunity to
destroy short and medium range ballistic missiles and other threats in the
atmosphere far enough away that falling debris will not endanger friendly
forces. The various BMDO technology and
acquisition programs, in support of the TMD and NMD missions, are continually
evaluating the latest advanced technology developments from industry as
potential replacements for the current state-of-the-art sensor systems,
components, sub-components, or piece part specifics. Research or Research and
Development efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a
degree of technical risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work
has not been fully established.
Description: A major factor in determining the
effectiveness of a ballistic missile defense is the lethality of the directed
energy and/or kinetic energy devices used against responsively hardened
targets, bulk powder, and submunition targets.
Battlefield by-products of post-intercept events are currently under
consideration. New concepts and
technologies that produce a much higher probability of hit-to-kill intercepts
are required to support applications. Ground and Point-of-Intercept
technologies, instrumentation, diagnostic developments and concepts, and
innovative methodologies are under consideration for cost effective
incorporation into BMDO lethality efforts.
Additionally, novel concepts and techniques that reduce the
vulnerability of ballistic missile defense systems will increase the
operational confidence level of dedicated assets. Commercial applications may
benefit from the incorporation of the techniques utilized in cost-reduction, measurement
and diagnostics, and meteorology instrumentation packages.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company P was started after receiving
initial funding under this topic for its solid-state optical devices, which are
now commercially available products.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#10---
Space Platforms
#12--- Weapons
BMDO 02-010 Computer
Algorithms, and Models/Simulations
Introduction: BMDO investigates various computer
technologies in support of both TMD and NMD applications. As such, a significant investment is made
each year in the continued development of increasingly robust and sophisticated
battle management, command, control, and communications (BMC3I) systems which
may eventually find their utilization in, and support of a ballistic missile
technology program or major defense acquisition program. All areas of computer software development
provide potential avenues toward supporting the ability of future BMDO systems
to find and disable a ballistic missile in flight. Furthermore, complete computer systems, components,
sub-components, and piece part specifics are constantly under evaluation by the
various TMD and NMD elements for replacement by the latest technology
developments from industry. Research or Research and Development efforts
selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical
risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully
established.
Description:
Missile defense systems for advanced battle management demand
order-of-magnitude advances. A system must potentially acquire and track
thousands of objects with many networked sensors and data processors, and must
employ direct weaponry to intercept targets, and determine the degree of kill.
Areas of specific interest include:
- New computer architectures which are
robust, compact, and fault-tolerant, but allow for the extremely rapid
processing of data. Architectures may
be implemented by new designs or innovative applications of existing
technologies, such as optical signal processing, systolic arrays, neural
networks, etc.
- Very high-level language (VHLL) design for
both the development and testing of extremely large software systems.
- Novel numerical algorithms for enhancing
the speed of advanced data processing for sensing, discrimination, kill
assessment, and systems control. These may be specifically tailored to a
particular task (for instance, the execution of a phase retrieval algorithm for
interferometric imaging or advanced engagement planning) and may include neural
networks.
- Language design to develop code optimized
for highly parallel processed architectures.
- Software
engineering processes, methods, tools, and environments for next generation
revolutionary paradigms. Areas of
interest include: decision
architectures; COTS-based development; risk management; sizing and costing
estimation; measurement; affordability; supportability; quality; development
and acquisition processes; and "Best Practices" for requirements
specification/management, design, development, integration, testing, configuration
management, and support of real-time distributed large-scale software systems.
- Software product line technologies,
including domain analysis and engineering, software product line acquisition
planning, component evaluation and cataloguing, organizational reuse
assessments, and software product line risk management.
- Testing techniques that will provide a high level of confidence
in the successful operation of concurrent, real-time, distributed large-scale
software systems. Examples include sensitivity analysis, data flow testing,
mutation testing, static concurrency analysis, dependency analysis, and novel
techniques for early detection of errors.
- Computer network and communications security. Areas of
interest include: intrusion-tolerant architectures; intrusion
monitoring, detection, and defense; rapid recovery methodologies;
”self-healing” systems capable of isolating corrupted nodes, re-allocating
resources, and reconstituting lost information; R&D for trusted
computer systems.
- Self-adaptive processing, simulations, and unconventional
computing approaches. Algorithms and
architectures for advanced decision-making.
Data compression and adaptive bandwidth management techniques.
- Neurocomputing and Man-Machine Interface -
rule-based artificial intelligence and neural networks combined for decision
making flexibility and system robustness; development of decision trees and
information display for highly, automated, short response time, training
adaptive high volume scenarios development
of autonomous intelligent agents and self-learning decision aids which operate
in distributed heterogeneous environments.
- Software architectures for embedded
computer networks that especially facilitate incremental system and software
integration, hardware and software maintenance, and system evolution, without
significant performance degradation.
- Hardware and software self-diagnostic
capabilities for monitoring the operational readiness and performance of space,
air, and ground systems incorporating embedded computer networks. Novel testing tools and evaluation methods
supporting T&E capabilities.
- Virtual environments to allow diverse groups to interact in
real time and in increasingly realistic ways over large distances which may
include: hostile environments definition and ground effects modeling and
simulation efforts. Real-time
distributed database management.
- Advanced interface effectors,
including visualization, multi-sensory, and virtual reality technologies, for
total information presentation and improved situational awareness in missile
defense application areas.
- Advanced knowledge representations and
probabilistic behavior models for realistic, high performance knowledge-based
decision aids.
- Software probes, gauges, and related software architectures and
algorithms that support software/system re-composition to enable self-adaptive,
self-healing computer-based systems.
- Application independent, customizable/adaptable
middleware for real-time coordination and synthesis in networked embedded
systems. Coordination services include
fault tolerant, self-stabilizing protocols for time, data exchange,
synchronization, and replication in large, distributed, real-time systems. Synthesis services provide time-bounded
solution for complex, distributed constraint satisfaction tasks required for
dynamic reconfiguration of applications.
-
Model-based generation & composition technology: Includes methods and tools
for modeling, composing, verifying and synthesizing model-based generators with
domain-specific front-ends and platform/framework-specific back-ends; methods
and tools for coupling and composing customizable frameworks.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company Q, with commercial and military
sales of its automatic parallelization tool for sequential programs, marketed
as INSURE++ and CodeWizard for Java, is in excess of $10M/year.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#3 ---
Information Systems Technology
#10---
Space Platforms
#11---
Human Systems
#12---
Weapons
BMDO 02-011 Photonics
\Introduction: In implementing its TMD and NMD program
activities, BMDO is continuing its developments of such efforts as the PATRIOT
Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missile system which has four major systems
components: radar, engagement control station, launching station, and
interceptors. The Navy Area Wide system
will develop a sea-based capability that builds upon the existing
AEGIS/Standard Missile air defense system.
This system is based on the AEGIS-class cruisers and destroyers, which
provide all elements of missile defense and are particularly suited to
protecting forces moving inland from the sea.
The Theater High-Altitude Area Defense System (THAAD) system will form
the largest umbrella of missile protection in a specific theater, arching over
all other missile defense systems. THAAD consists of four major systems components: truck-mounted
launchers; interceptors; radar system; and battle management, command, control,
communications, and intelligence (BMC3I).
These increasingly sophisticated systems will provide the opportunity to
destroy short and medium range ballistic missiles and other threats in the
atmosphere far enough away that falling debris will not endanger friendly
forces. The various BMDO technology and
acquisition programs, in support of the TMD and NMD missions, are continually
evaluating the latest advanced technology developments from industry as
potential replacements for the current state-of-the-art sensor systems,
components, sub-components, or piece part specifics. Research or Research and
Development efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a
degree of technical risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work
has not been fully established.
Description: Dense computing capability is sought in all
architectural variations, from all optic to hybrid computers. Specific examples
of areas to be addressed include, but are not limited to, high speed
multiplexing; monolithic optoelectronic transmitters; holographic methods;
reconfigurable interconnects; in-plane optical connections; optoelectronic
circuits; and any other technology contributing to advances in intra-computer
communications; optical logic gates; bistable memories; optical clock
oscillators; optical transistors; low-insertion,low-guide, and minimized bend
losses; and power limiters. Also, under
consideration are non-linear optical materials advancements and new bistable
optical device configurations.
Solutions that enable easy bi-directional opto-electronic conversion
from vertical to in-plane interconnect schemes offer the ultimate in
performance, I/O density and flexibility of design for system coupling. Please indicate the particular
identifying letter that your specific
proposal/technology addresses:
BMDO/ 02-211A –
Optical Materials
BMDO/ 02-211B – Optical
Devices
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company R took a unique technology
approach in addressing fiber-optic and other optical communications
applications to both the military and commercial industry. Company S is providing a low-loss
electro-optical switching array, Company T is providing optical bus extenders
and fiber-optic modulators, Company U has funded technology which utilized
wavelength division multiplexing techniques; all three support the ever growing
optical communication industry.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#3 ---
Information Systems Technology
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#10---
Space Platforms
#12--- Weapons
BMDO 02-012 Structural Materials, Concepts,
Components and Composites
Introduction: The tremendous explosion in the
commercial industry to develop innovative structural components has sustained
BMDO investigations into various technologies in support of both TMD and NMD
applications. As such, a significant
investment is made each year in the continued development of increasingly
robust and viable concepts which may produce technologies that eventually find
their utilization in, and support of, a ballistic missile technology program or
major defense acquisition program. The
commercial industry has made advances in the development of stronger, lighter,
and cheaper materials for use in structural applications. BMDO investigates various composites
technologies for both TMD and NMD missile applications. All considered technologies provide
potential avenues toward supporting the ability of future BMDO systems to
address vibrations and structural integrity more efficiently than current
methods will allow. Furthermore,
components, sub-components, and piece part specifics are constantly under
evaluation by the various TMD and NMD elements for replacement by the latest
technology developments from industry. Research or Research and Development
efforts selected under this topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of
technical risk where the technical feasibility of the proposed work has not
been fully established.
Description: Minimum weight structures are needed in
ballistic missile defense applications to withstand high-g loading, acoustic
and thermal environments of ground based interceptors, and to provide solid
bases for space systems pointing and tracking.
Such structures will benefit from: (1) innovative vibration control
techniques, (2) innovative fabrication approaches to cut structure cost, (3)
innovative use of advanced materials and/or design approaches to minimize
structure weight, and (4) innovative rapid prototyping techniques. For
instance, techniques and experimental verification are needed for active and/or
passive methods to measure and control vibrations caused by thermo-mechanical
flutter, thruster firing, or structure borne noise caused by on-board
mechanisms, multipurpose structures that provide mechanical strength,
electrical connection, and desired thermal characteristics, kill enhancement
materials that increase the energy imparted to objects impacted.
"Active" structural elements containing materials and electronics to
provide predictable mechanical displacement in response to applied electrical
signals are of interest. Maximization of displacement, mechanical strength, and
reliability; parameter stability over extended temperature ranges; and
minimization of driving voltage, power, and weight of these elements are
desired. Producibility improvements for
curved actuator elements, flextensional, and other integrated motion amplifiers
are of interest. Fabrication approaches
that provide minimum weight with reduced assembly, inspection, and scrap rates
for conventional, advanced composite, and "active" structures are
needed to reduce costs. The following are also sought: innovative manufacturing
methods for producing high modulus, fiber-reinforced glass, light metal (i.e.
aluminum or magnesium), or resin matrix composites; innovative procedures for
the production of instrumentation, sensors, and software for on-line process
monitoring and evaluation of high modulus, fiber-reinforced composites during
fabrication; novel approaches to tailor fiber/matrix interfaces to maximize
capability in advanced composites; novel methods to cut fabrication cost of
metallic and/or composite spacecraft and interceptor structures; innovative
tooling techniques for near-net shape production of advanced composites; novel
low-to-no outgassing joining/bonding techniques for advanced composites;
adhesives; innovative surface modifications to promote wear resistance and
supersonic test techniques to evaluate wear and erosion; new methods for
integrating instrumentation (e.g., embedded sensors) into advanced composite
materials and structures; novel instrumentation for determination and telemetry
of material properties and data from space. Advances are also sought in
materials for optical system components, mechanical moving assemblies, and
protective coatings. Of course, novel
designs and material usage to reduce structure weight, while maintaining or
increasing capability, are always desirable goals.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company V took its ultrasonic motor
technology to the commercial industry and their motor can now be found in
assorted novelty and gift items. Company
W, with a very accurate and precise gimbal for military laser communications,
also has sales to the commercial optical communications industry.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#10---
Space Platforms
#12---
Weapons
BMDO 02-014 Electronics
and Superconductivity
Introduction:
In implementing its TMD and NMD program activities, BMDO is continuing
its developments of such efforts as the PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3)
missile system which has four major systems components: radar, engagement
control station, launching station, and interceptors. The Navy Area Wide system will develop a sea-based capability
that builds upon the existing AEGIS/Standard Missile air defense system. This system is based on the AEGIS-class
cruisers and destroyers, which provide all elements of missile defense and are
particularly suited to protecting forces moving inland from the sea. The Theater High-Altitude Area Defense
System (THAAD) system will form the largest umbrella of missile protection in a
specific theater, arching over all other missile defense systems. THAAD consists of four major systems
components: truck-mounted launchers; interceptors; radar system; and battle
management, command, control, communications, and intelligence (BMC3I). BMDO’s increasingly sophisticated systems
will provide the opportunity to destroy short and medium range ballistic
missiles and other threats in the atmosphere far enough away that falling
debris will not endanger friendly forces.
The various BMDO technology and acquisition programs, in support of the
TMD and NMD missions, are continually evaluating the latest advanced technology
developments from industry as potential replacements for the current
state-of-the-art sensor systems, components, sub-components, or piece part
specifics. Research or Research and Development efforts selected under this
topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical risk where the
technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully established.
Description: The necessary advances in electronics for
the many ballistic missile defense applications will require advances in
electronics materials. Primary emphasis lies in advancing the capability of
integrated circuits (>GB/s), detectors, sensors, large-scale integration,
radiation hardness, and all electronic components. Novel quantum-well/superlattice structures that allow the
realization of unique elective properties through “band gap engineering” are
sought, as are new organic and polymer materials with unique electronic
characteristics. In addition,
exploitation of the unusual electronic properties of gallium nitride is of
considerable interest, as well as, dramatic improvements of growth
processes. Specific interests include,
high speed switching conditions at >10GHz and/or cryogenic
temperatures. Also, for high power,
<10 GHz, SiC should be pursued for both semi-insulating bulk and epitaxial
growth. Among the many BMDO electronic needs and interest are advances in high
frequency transistor structures, solid state lasers, optical detectors,
thermochromic films, low dielectric constant packaging materials, mixed-signal
electronics, tailored thermal conductivity, microstructural waveguides,
multilayer capacitors, single-electron transistors, clock-less logic ICs,
metallization methods for repair of conducting paths in polyceramic systems,
and sol-gel processing for packaging materials. Also, BMDO is interested in demonstrating both high temperature
superconductor (HTS) and low temperature superconductor (LTS) devices to enable
or improve strategic defenses. Emphasis in HTS technology focused toward
components integrated with state-of-the-art cryoelectronics for communications
systems at K- and S-bands and radar systems in the X-band power and inductive
energy storage are of specific ballistic missile defense interest. The
demonstration of HTS materials toward limited detection of radiation in the
optical, IR, MWIR, and LWIR bands as well as for signal processing applications
is also of interest. The emphasis in LTS technology is in the development and
demonstration of high sensitivity detectors, digital electronics, and memory
enabling on-focal plane array signal processing and operating at temperatures
greater than 10K. Additionally,
superconducting power technologies are of interest. Efforts should address packaging and interface issues and systems
integration with cryocoolers and stored cryogens. Please indicate the particular identifying letter that your
specific proposal/technology addresses:
BMDO/ 02-214A – Electronic Materials
BMDO/ 02-214B – Electronic Devices
BMDO/ 02-214C –
Superconductivity Materials
BMDO/ 02-214D –
Superconductivity Devices
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful
Phase 3/Dual-Use Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company Y, with a
market cap of $883M+, commercialized technology that allowed for the delivery
of ultra-pure materials to semiconductor thin film reactors and has graduated
from small business status. Company Z, with a market cap of $14M+, manufactures
radiation detection devices and was funded for avalanche photodiode arrays
under this topic. Company AA, with a market cap of $1,200M+, has a substantial
market share of the atomic layer epitaxy growth method of semiconductor
compound materials based on their efforts developed under this topic. Company
BB, with a market cap of $692M+, which manufactures flat panel display devices,
received some initial funding for their silicon-on-insulator films and
organometallic chemical vapor deposition technology developments. Company CC,
purchased by a Fortune 100 company Apr 00, commercialized technology based on
degradation resistant laser diodes. Company DD, with a market cap of $7M+, is
commercializing technology based on its surge suppression devices and marketed
as SurgX. Company EE, purchased by another larger company Feb 01 after
graduating from small business status, had initial funding for its high bandgap
compounds and laser diode products to develop a number of commercial and
military products. Company KK
established a multilayer coating technology, on which they have the worldwide
patent, that can be easily transported to any location for application. Company FF developed a magnetoresistive
non-volatile random access memory chip, which is also radiation hardened, and
is utilized in a number of space applications for the military and commercial
sectors. Company LL, with a market cap of $133M+, was started with their first
Phase I from this topic and the products are used in electronics, structural
ceramics, composites, cosmetics and skin care, and as industrial catalysts.
Company NN, with a market cap of $574M+, is leveraging technology developed
under this topic for the efficient production of semiconductors from waste
recovery during the manufacturing process.
Company GG, with a market cap of $113M+, fabricates optical components
for industrial and military applications finds traceability back to
superconducting detectors funded under this topic. Company HH, with a market cap of $103M+, demonstrated success
from its technology based on multi-GHz superconducting shift registers.
DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air
Platforms
#5 ---
Materials/Processes
#7 --- Sensors
#8 ---
Electronics
#9 ---
Battlespace Environment
#10--- Space Platforms
#12--- Weapons
#13--- Nuclear Technology
BMDO 02-016 Surprises and Opportunities
Introduction:
BMDO increasingly depends on advanced technology developments, of all
kinds, to invigorate its ability to find and disable missiles in flight and to
defend against an increasingly sophisticated threat, to include cruise
missiles. Therefore, the continued
availability of emerging technology has become a vital part of the BMDO
mission. BMDO has interest and
investments in specific technology programs that pursue speculative, high-risk
technologies that could spur a revolutionary leap or enhancements in either
Theater Missile Defense or National Missile Defense capabilities. Specific goals include, but are not limited
to, quickening the pace of technology and innovation developments and
decreasing the time required to transform scientific breakthroughs into actual
applications. Research or Research and Development efforts selected under this
topic shall demonstrate and involve a degree of technical risk where the
technical feasibility of the proposed work has not been fully established.
Description: Since ballistic missile defense is an
exploration at technology's leading edge to begin with, BMDO recognizes that
surprises and opportunities may arise from creative and innovative minds in a
variety of technology sectors. BMDO will consider proposals in other
technologies where they present a completely unique and unusual opportunity for
ballistic missile defense applications. The proposing company should take
special care to describe the specific technology in complete detail and specify
why ballistic missile defense applications would benefit from exploring its
unique and novel implications.
Proposing companies should make particular note that proposals in this
topic will receive preliminary screening at BMDO and that they may be rejected
as too far afield without the benefit of a full technical review
received by proposals in the topics already listed. It is recommended that the
proposing company focuses their submission toward one of the specific outlined
topics above unless the technology proposed is truly an unquestionable
innovation. This full and open call is for new/novel/innovative/unique advanced
technology developments, and not for the recycling of old ideas, incremental
advancements, or questionable improvements.
Phase I: Demonstrate the
likelihood that a new and innovative research and development approach can meet
any of the broad needs discussed in this topic for future BMDO systems
consideration.
Phase II: Develop applicable
and feasible prototype demonstrations and/or proof-of-concept devices for the
approach described, and demonstrate a degree of commercial viability.
Successful Phase 3/Dual-Use
Commercializers (Real-World Examples): Company JJ, with a market cap of $999M+, was funded for technology to further
its intelligent client-server software solutions for mission-critical decision
applications in real-time military and commercial environments.
DoD Key Technology Areas: Any potential new
development may address a DoD Critical Technology Area from this topic,
provided it supports BMDO mission interest at some level. DoD Key Technology Areas:
#1 --- Air Platforms
#3 --- Information Systems Technology
#4 --- Ground and Sea Vehicles
#5 --- Materials/Processes
#7 --- Sensors
#8 ---
Electronics
#9 ---
Battlespace Environment
#10--- Space Platforms
#11--- Human Systems
#12--- Weapons
#13--- Nuclear Technology