AET BAA Solicitation FA9451-21-S-0002 20210702.pdf

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT

FA9451-21-S-0002

Air Force Research Laboratory

Directed Energy Directorate

ANNOUNCEMENT OVERVIEW

02 July 2021

NAICS CODE: 541715

FEDERAL AGENCY NAME: Air Force Research Laboratory Directed Energy Directorate

(AFRL/RD)

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT TITLE: Advanced Electromagnetic Technology

(AET)

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT TYPE: This is the initial announcement.

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT NUMBER: FA9451-21-S-0002

PROPOSAL DUE DATE AND TIME: Proposals are due by 12:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time (MST), 17 August 2021 and delivered via the DoD SAFE website. Proposals received after the due date and time specified shall be governed by the provisions of FAR 52.215-1(c)(3).

If the offeror does not have a Common Access Card (CAC), the offeror shall email the Contracting Points of Contact to request a “drop off” link to the DoD SAFE website. The offeror shall then use this link to “drop off” their proposal. Offerors are still required to email the Contracting Points of Contact to request the link with enough time to upload the proposal by the above stated date and time. Proposals received after the above stated date and time as a result of security delays or delays in requesting the DoD SAFE link will be considered “late.” Early proposal submission is encouraged.

BRIEF PROGRAM SUMMARY: This is a Closed One-Step Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) (without Calls) to solicit proposals for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Directed Energy Directorate (RD), High Power Electromagnetic Division (RDH), Advanced Electromagnetic Technology (AET) program.

The objective of the Electromagnetic Weapons Technologies Program is to investigate, develop, and ultimately transition new HPEM Weapon concepts, HPEM materials and components, and compact pulsed power topologies. The program will also evaluate and leverage advances in prime power technologies to optimize size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements for future weapon systems. Successful transition entails transitioning the new HPEM Weapon Concept into its own program, or incorporation/use of new HPEM components and materials into another HPEM Program.

The Full Text Announcement is included below and is available at beta.SAM.gov under notice number FA9451-21-S-0002. There will be no other announcement issued for this requirement.

Offerors must monitor beta.SAM.gov in the event this BAA is amended.

NOTE: CLASSIFIED MATERIAL SHOULD NOT BE INCLUDED IN THE PROPOSAL AND

SHOULD NOT BE SUBMITTED WITH THE PROPOSAL. IF NECESSARY, CLASSIFIED

MATERIAL SHALL BE SUBMITTED AS A SEPARATE ADDENDUM. SPECIFIC

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A CLASSIFIED ADDENDUM, UP TO SECRET

COLLATERAL, ARE PROVIDED IN SECTION VIII. A. ii. OF THE FULL TEXT

ANNOUNCEMENT.

GENERAL INFORMATION: This acquisition is unrestricted. The NAICS Code for this acquisition is 541715 for Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology), and the small business size standard is 1,000 employees (1,500 employees for Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts, 1,250 employees for Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary, and 1250 employees for Guided Missiles and Space Vehicles, Their Propulsion Units and Propulsion Parts). This BAA is issued under the provisions of FAR 6.102(d)(2) that provides for the competitive selection of research proposals. Proposals submitted in response to this BAA that are selected for award are considered to be the results of full and open competition and in full compliance with the provisions of Public Law 98-369, the Competition in Contracting Act of 1984.

SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT REGISTRATION: FAR 52.204-7 System for Award Management SAM) (OCT 2018) and FAR 52.204-8 Annual Representations and Certifications (MAR 2020) are hereby incorporated into and will be made a part of any award(s) based on this BAA. If potential offerors are notified to be eligible for an award, they must be registered in SAM and submit annual electronic Representations and Certifications via the System for Award Management (SAM) website at www.sam.gov. These FAR and DFARS level representations and certifications are required in addition to the representations and certifications specific to this

BAA.

TYPE OF CONTRACTS: The Air Force reserves the right to award the appropriate contract type under the FAR that is best suited to the nature of the research proposed. It is anticipated that an award under this BAA will be a multiple award Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) type contract with an ordering period of five years (60 months). It is anticipated that Task Order(s) issued under the IDIQ contract will be Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) Completion type.

Cost reimbursement contracts require successful offerors to have an accounting system considered adequate for tracking costs applicable to the contract. No opportunities for assistance instruments, including grants, cooperative agreement, other transaction (OT) for prototype or research, or technology investment agreements exist under this BAA.

ANTICIPATED NUMBER OF AWARDS: The Air Force anticipates awarding multiple award IDIQ type contract with up to six initial Task Orders. However, the Air Force does reserve the right to make multiple awards or no awards pursuant to this BAA. The Air Force also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the proposals.

ESTIMATED PROGRAM COST: The estimated ceiling of the IDIQ contract is $49 million with a minimum ordering value of $100,000 and a maximum ordering value of $15M. The estimated value of the initial Task Orders is $39.98M.

This funding profile is an estimate only and not a contractual obligation for funding. All funding is subject to change due to Government discretion and availability. Potential offerors should be aware that, due to unanticipated budget fluctuations, funding in any or all areas may change with little or no notice.

http://www.sam.gov/

TECHNICAL POINT OF CONTACT (TPOC):

Dr. Susan Heidger

AFRL/RDHP

Kirtland AFB, NM Phone: 505-853-4707 Email: susan.heidger@us.af.mil

CONTRACTING POINT OF CONTACT:

Mr. Pedro Oroyan Contract Specialist (Primary POC)

AFRL/RDKP

Kirtland AFB, NM Phone: 505-846-4626 Email: pedro.oroyan.1@us.af.mil

Ms. Jaclyn Torres Contracting Officer (Alternate POC)

AFRL/RDKP

Kirtland AFB, NM Phone: 505-846-1545 Email: jaclyn.torres@us.af.mil mailto:susan.heidger@us.af.mil mailto:pedro.oroyan.1@us.af.mil mailto:jaclyn.torres@us.af.mil

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT

FA9451-21-S-0002

Air Force Research Laboratory

Directed Energy Directorate

FULL TEXT ANNOUNCEMENT

I. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

A. Overview: The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Directed Energy Directorate’s (RD), High-Power Electromagnetics Division (RDH) is interested in receiving proposals for innovative and varying approaches to advance the state-of-the-art and scientific knowledge under the Advanced Electromagnetic Technology (AET).

The Electromagnetic Weapons Technologies (EMWT) for the Advanced Electromagnetic Technology (AET) conducts research addressing the Air Force and DoD requirements for HPEM technologies. The objective of the EMWT Program is to investigate, develop, and ultimately transition new HPEM Weapon concepts, HPEM materials and components, and compact pulsed power topologies. The program will also evaluate and leverage advances in prime power technologies to optimize size, weight, and power (SWaP) requirements for future weapon systems.

In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 35.002, Research and Development (R&D) contracts are directed towards objectives for which the work or methods cannot be precisely described in advance. It is difficult to judge the probabilities of success or required effort for technical approaches, some of which offer little or no early assurance of full success. Due to the nature of R&D, improvements in technology and theories may result in possible changes to the offeror’s/contractor’s technical proposal or statement of work, prior to award or after technical performance has commenced. Offerors are advised that additional latitude for changing a contract may exist when the contract is for R&D, noting that the scope of such contracts is often flexible, to all unanticipated changes due to lack of definitiveness of the Government’s objectives.

B. Objectives: The basic Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity Statement of

Objectives (SOO) is included as Attachment 1 to this BAA.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated the Basic Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract ordering period will be five years (60 months). Task Order period of performance will be specified on each individual Task Order. The ordering period and the period of performance for any additional IDIQs will be stated in the individual additional IDIQ.

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in each individual Task Order.

II. INITIAL TASK ORDERS

TASK ORDER 1 (Repetitive Pulsed Power)

A. Overview: The research effort will be to investigate and advance compact, pulsed power technologies suitable for driving high power electromagnetic sources including Marx banks, pulsed forming networks, pulse forming lines, linear transformer drivers, hybrid pulsed power topologies, nonlinear transmission lines, solid state switches, gas switches, capacitors, transformers, insulating dielectrics, varactors, resistors, magnetic and dielectric, conducting and structural materials that enable compact, pulsed power systems suitable to drive high power electromagnetic sources.

In addition, the research will study and develop prime power sources and strategies for compact energy storage, charging, discharging and power conditioning of pulsed power systems compatible with use in airborne platforms.

The research will include computer analysis and modeling of pulsed and prime power systems and components to predict and evaluate performance, operational suitability, and lifetime.

Research will include design, development, engineering, fabrication, assembly, analysis, and testing of pulsed and prime power topologies and components.

B. Objectives: Refer to the initial Task Order 1 SOO, Attachment 3a.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated that Task Order 1 will be a 45 month technical effort with an additional 3 months allotted for final report preparation.

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in the Task Order 1 SOO.

TASK ORDER 2 (Charged Particle Beam (CPB) Interactions)

A. Overview: AFRL has recently begun a research effort to investigate the effects high energy particle beams (HEPBs) and the radiation produced by them can have on electronic components and systems. This research effort can be divided into two components: the first component focuses on understanding and characterizing the effects that high energy particle beams can have on electronic systems, and the second component entails designing and building an accelerator with which to perform effects tests.

The effects research component includes identifying and procuring various electronic components and systems of interest for testing; understanding the details of their operation; designing, fabricating, and assembling test fixtures for these assets to enable remote operation and monitoring; and then conducting tests involving placing these electronic components and systems within the path of high energy particle beams and documenting changes in their operation. Procurement of ancillary equipment to operate test assets and materials for assembling the test fixtures may be necessary, as well as performing modeling and simulation of high energy particle beam propagation through various media and beam interactions with targets. The research may also involve building up or developing new diagnostics as appropriate, and developing or modifying exiting data acquisition systems to record data.

Occasional travel requirements are expected in order to support experimental test campaigns at off-site locations.

The accelerator development component of the research will first involve modeling and simulation of particle accelerators to include both existing accelerator topologies as well as novel accelerator schemes, i.e. laser or plasma wakefield accelerators.

This effort will then entail designing, developing, fabricating, testing, and analyzing particle accelerator systems and components for eventual use in the effects testing.

Included in the definition of these components and systems are linear accelerators, superconducting accelerator structures, microwave sources, ultrafast lasers and optics, plasma sources for wakefield accelerators, dielectric wakefield accelerating structures, and prime energy stores

B. Objectives: Refer to the initial Task Order 2 SOO, Attachment 3b.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated that the Initial Task Order 2 will be a 45 month technical effort with an additional 3 months allotted for final report preparation.

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in the Task Order 2 SOO.

TASK ORDER 3 (Compact, Low Duty Factor Prime Power)

A: Overview: This research effort will focus on developing compact, prime power technologies optimized for power density and specific power for intermittent, high power, pulsed operation, and high efficiency to utilize as compact energy storage and power conditioning sources for Directed Energy Systems.

This effort will develop, evaluate performance, operational suitability, efficiency and lifetime of compact, prime power technologies and components that have pervasive applications to a breadth of electromagnetic systems, including but not limited to compact energy storage and power conditioners that derive and store power intermittently from airframe bus, and as well as independent compact power generation, energy storage and power supplies, novel switching power supply topologies, transformer designs utilizing low core loss, high saturation flux density magnetic cores and innovative insulations, batteries, fuel cells, ultracapacitors, and hybrid power sources.

The trade space of performance, lifetime, size and specific power of prime power systems in relation to overall for performance, volume and mass of potential electromagnetic weapons systems will be investigated.

Within this effort, the design, construction, and utilization of existing test stands at AFRL/RD will occur, and experiments to determine functionality, environmental operability, integration and life-time of prime power technologies will be performed not only on the bench but also when operated within the entire system for which the subsystem was designed.

B. Objectives: Refer to the initial Task Order 3 SOO, Attachment 3c.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated that the Initial Task Order 3 will be a 45 month

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in the Task Order 3 SOO.

TASK ORDER 4 (HPEM Material & Plasma Science & Technology)

A: Overview: This research effort will focus on developing a fundamental physical understanding of the interaction of millimeter wave radiation with high temperature materials and using this understanding to develop materials applicable to power beaming applications.

Modeling capabilities and materials data gained will be used to develop heat exchanger technology in which millimeter wave energy absorbed by the high temperature material is transferred to a working fluid in a configuration feasible for use in power generation or propulsion applications.

This effort will require characterizing and modeling temperature-dependent conductivity and complex permittivity, as well as changes in crystal structure, grain size, and vitrification of high temperature materials that may result from mm-wave heating at temperatures up to 2500 degrees C. Material performance will be characterized at very high continuous wave (CW) or quasi-CW millimeter wave power densities, up to ~30 MW/m2 in air. Due to the extreme environments in which these materials will be studied, it is expected that characterization and modeling of millimeter wave interactions with surface and atmospheric plasmas will also be required.

Responses focusing heavily or exclusively on application-oriented technology demonstrations, i.e. launches of a beamed energy propulsion vehicle, will not be considered responsive to this topic.

In addition to the mm-wave research, this research effort will also include a focus on developing a fundamental understanding of the initiation and sustainment of low pressure (≤ 1atm) plasmas using high power microwave (HPM) or high power millimeter wave beams.

Discussions should focus on laboratory-scale direct and ponderomotively driven quasi-free-space plasmas having lifetimes of >5 seconds and sustained with a multi kW microwave beam. Quasi-free-space implies multiple Debye lengths between the main plasma body and the wall of the containment vessel.

Further studies will include higher power HPM-driven plasmas as well as HPM-driven plasmas in various magnetic field configurations.

This effort is expected to require the development of novel HPM drive systems for various plasma configurations, which may involve the development of custom HPM sources and focal arrays.

B. Objectives: Refer to the initial Task Order 4 SOO, Attachment 3d.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated the Initial Task Order 4 will be a 45 month technical effort with an additional 3 months allotted for final report preparation.

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in the Task Order 4 SOO.

TASK ORDER 5 (HPEM Fundamental Research)

A: Overview: This research effort will focus on fundamental research and development on the interactions of materials for use in next generation HPM systems. The research will include the development, modeling, and testing of materials heated using high power microwave or millimeter-wave radiation.

Developing, modeling and testing novel materials and components relevant to heat exchangers capable of utilizing electromagnetic energy as a power source.

Studying microwave and millimeter-wave powered plasma sources, associated high voltage power systems, magnetic field configurations, beam conditioning techniques, and beam direction techniques necessary for heating materials and generating plasmas. Studying the physics of materials in extreme environments of high power microwave tubes, computationally and experimentally, particularly extending the state-of-the-art in novel materials and condensed matter pertaining to electron field emission physics. Developing and testing improved theoretical and numerical models for neutral outgassing of various anode materials for HPM tubes.

Developing and testing models to explain the relationship of the magnetic properties of ferrites to the efficiency, frequency and pulse lengths of electromagnetic radiation propagating through magnetic dispersive nonlinear transmission lines.

Exploring innovative coupling techniques for frequency selection and extraction of high power microwaves from nonlinear transmission lines.

Simulating and exploring the effects and mitigation of defects in dielectrics and insulators, particularly in relation to the mechanisms of electrical breakdown.

Due to the importance of HPEM-related fundamental research to broader research programs at AFRL, the majority of contractor work will be performed in close collaboration with government personnel at AFRL facilities; however, it is expected that in order to achieve research goals, it may be necessary to access specialized skills and capabilities that are available in other areas such as universities.

B. Objectives: Refer to the initial Task Order 5 SOO, Attachment 3e.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated that the Initial Task Order 5 will be a 45 month

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in the Task Order 5 SOO.

TASK ORDER 6 (Solid State HPEM)

A: Overview: The goal of this effort is to investigate, develop, and ultimately transition nonlinear transmission line (NLTL) or other solid-state based High Power electromagnetic (HPEM) weapon concept(s). The work will include the development of system(s) utilizing a nonlinear transmission line (NLTL) or alternative solid-state high power microwave source(s) integrated into a vehicle and/or vehicles including but not limited to suitable user interfaces, embedded controls, and diagnostics.

Work will include the development and study of operational suitability, efficiency, and lifetime of solid-state HPEM systems. The effort will include but is not limited to ruggedization, performing lifetime tests on system components, of the solid-state source, pulsed power, prime power source and antenna(s).

This effort will focus on the design and development of solid-state HPEM source(s), antenna(ae), pulsed and prime power systems that are suitable for integration into a various types of vehicles as required by exigencies of the program.

Research efforts will focus on increasing, as required by exigencies of the program, the range and effectiveness of solid-state HPEM systems on select target sets. In addition, evaluation of the trade space of performance, volume and mass of solid-state HPEM sources, antenna(ae), pulsed and prime power subsystems in relation to overall performance, volume and mass of potential solid-state based HPEM weapons systems will be required.

Discussions should include the development, design, construction, testing, analysis, and implementation of enabling technologies for compact, solid-state HPEM based weapon systems.

This effort will include the design, build, and utilization of test stands at AFRL/RD for performing experiments to determine functionality, environmental operability, integration and life-time of that subsystems and/or components, not only on the bench but also when operated within the entire solid-state HPEM system(s). In addition to experimentation, the effort will include the development and/or utilization of models to optimize the design and integration of solid-state based HPEM systems, subsystems and components, and to validate the experiments.

B. Objectives: Refer to the initial Task Order 6 SOO, Attachment 3f.

C. Schedule: It is anticipated that the Initial Task Order 6 will be a 45 month

D. Deliverables: Deliverables will be specified in the Task Order 6 SOO.

III. AWARD INFORMATION

A. Type of Contract: The Air Force reserves the right to award the appropriate contract type under the FAR that is best suited to the nature of research proposed. It is anticipated that an award under this BAA will be a multiple award IDIQ type contract with an ordering period of five years (60 months). It is anticipated that Task Order(s) issued under the IDIQ contract will be Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) Completion type. Cost reimbursement contracts require successful offerors to have an accounting system considered adequate for tracking costs applicable to the contract. No opportunities for assistance instruments, including grants, cooperative agreements, or technology investment agreements exist under this BAA.

B. Anticipated Number of Awards: The Air Force anticipates awarding multiple award IDIQ type contracts with up to six initial Task Orders. However, the Air Force does reserve the right to make multiple awards, a single award or no awards pursuant to this BAA. The Air Force also reserves the right to award some, all or none of the proposals.

C. ESTIMATED PROGRAM COST: The estimated ceiling of the IDIQ contract is

$49 million with a minimum ordering value of $100,000 and a maximum ordering value of $15M. The estimated value of the initial Task Orders is $39.98M.

This funding profile is an estimate only and not a contractual obligation for funding. All funding is subject to change due to Government discretion and availability. Potential offerors should be aware that, due to unanticipated budget fluctuations, funding in any or all areas may change with little or no notice.

IV. POINTS OF CONTACT

A. Technical Point of Contact (TPOC):

Dr. Susan Heidger

AFRL/RDHP

Kirtland AFB, NM Phone: 505-853-4707 Email: susan.heidger@us.af.mil

B. CONTRACTING POINT OF CONTACT:

Mr. Pedro Oroyan Contract Specialist (Primary POC)

AFRL/RDKP

Kirtland AFB, NM Phone: 505-846-4626 Email: pedro.oroyan.1@us.af.mil

Ms. Jaclyn Torres Contracting Officer (Alternate POC)

AFRL/RDKP

Kirtland AFB, NM Phone: 505-846-1545 Email: jaclyn.torres@us.af.mil

C. Ombudsman: The clause at AFFARS 5352.201-9101, Ombudsman, is applicable to this procurement. An Ombudsman has been appointed to address concerns of offeror(s) or potential offerors. The Ombudsman does not diminish the authority of the program manager or contracting office, but communicates the contractor concerns, issues, disagreements, and recommendations to the appropriate Government personnel. When requested, the Ombudsman shall maintain strict confidentiality as to the source of the concern. The Ombudsman does not participate in the evaluation of the proposals or in the source selection process. Matters of routine or administrative nature concerning this acquisition should not be addressed to the Ombudsman, but rather to the contracting point of contact identified below. The Ombudsman is AFRL/PK Director of Contracting; Phone: 937-904-9700; email AFRL.PK.OfficeAccount@us.af.mil.

mailto:susan.heidger@us.af.mil mailto:pedro.oroyan.1@us.af.mil mailto:jaclyn.torres@us.af.mil

V. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

A. Eligible Offerors/Applicants: All responsible sources capable of satisfying the Government’s needs may submit a proposal. Small Businesses, Historically Black Colleges (HBCU), Minority Institutions (MI), Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDB), Woman-Owned Small Businesses (WOSB), and Service- Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOB) are encouraged to submit proposals; however, no part of this BAA is a set-aside.

B. Cost Sharing or Matching: The Government is not considering a cost sharing or matching arrangement.

C. Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs): The following guidance is provided for Department of Defense (DoD) and Non-DoD sponsored FFRDCs contemplating submitting a proposal, as either a prime or subcontractor, against this BAA. FAR 35.017-1(c)(4) prohibits an FFRDC from competing with any non-FFRDC concern in response to a Federal agency request for proposal for other than the operation of an FFRDC (with exceptions stated in DFARS 235.017-1(c)(4)). There is no regulation prohibiting an FFRDC from responding to a solicitation. However, the FFRDC’s sponsoring agency must first make a determination that the effort being proposed falls within the purpose, mission, general scope of effort, or special competency of the FFRDC, and that determination must be included in the FFRDC’s proposal. In addition, the non-sponsoring agency must make a determination that the work proposed would not place the FFRDC in direct competition with domestic private industry.

Only after these determinations are made would a determination be made concerning the FFRDC’s eligibility to receive an award.

D. Government Agencies: If a Government agency is interested in performing work please contact the TPOC identified in this BAA (FA9451-21-S-0002). If those discussions result in a mutual interest to pursue your agency's participation, the effort will be pursued independent of this BAA.

E. Export Control DD Form 2345 (Militarily Critical Technical Data

Agreement): Information involved in this research effort is subject to U.S.

Export Control laws (International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) 22 CFR 120-131 or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 15 CFR 710-774). Foreign participation is prohibited at the prime contractor level. U.S.-based offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s). Offerors are advised FNs proposed to perform may be restricted under U.S. Export Control Laws due to the nature of the technical data.

Only offerors who are registered and certified with the Defense Logistics Services Center (DLSC) and have a legitimate business purpose may participate in this BAA. For further information on the certification process, contact the DLSC at 74 Washington Avenue N., Battle Creek, MI 40917-3084, 1-800-352-3572. For questions, contact the Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS) on-line at http://www.dlis.dla.mil/jcp or at DLIS, US/Canada Joint Certification Center, Federal Center, 74 North Washington, Battle Creek, MI http://www.dlis.dla.mil/jcp

49017-4312, 1-800-352-3572. Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.225-7048 Export Controlled Items (JUN 2013) is hereby incorporated into and will be made a part of any award(s) based on this BAA. Offerors are required to submit a Certified DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, in the Business Volume of the Basic IDIQ proposal.

F. Security Requirement: This effort will require access to and processing of classified information at the Secret level. FAR 4.4 Safeguarding Classified Information Within Industry, requires that a DoD Contract Security Classification Specification, DD Form 254, be incorporated in the contract when the contractor may require access to classified information. The DD Form 254 provides the contractor (or subcontractor) the security requirements and the classification guidance necessary to perform on a classified contract. The successful offeror will need Secret facility clearance and Secret safeguarding capability prior to award and throughout the period of performance. Offerors must verify their Cognizant Security Office information is current with Defense Security Service (DSS) at http://www.dss.mil. A DD Form 254 is included as Attachment 5 to this

BAA.

VI. COMMUNICATIONS

A. The acquisition team intends to manage communications in a manner best designed to facilitate the submittal of optimal proposals while not providing any unfair competitive advantages.

B. Dialogue between prospective offerors and Government representatives is encouraged until submission of proposals. Questions must be submitted in writing to the Technical and Contracting Points of Contact. The deadline for submitting questions is 4:00 p.m., Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), 16 July 2021. Any questions from prospective offerors will be posted to via beta.SAM.gov. Dialogue with any of the points of contact shall not constitute a commitment by the Government to subsequently fund or award any proposed effort. Any dialogue that takes place will not be taken into consideration during the evaluation of proposals. Only Contracting Officers are legally authorized to commit the Government.

C. After proposal receipt, all communication will be in writing to the contracting office. Only the Contracting Officer or Contract Specialist will discuss pricing and/or contractual issues.

D. The Government may contact offerors to clarify certain aspects of the proposal.

In the event the Government is unable to conclude negotiations with the apparent successful offeror, it reserves the right to conduct negotiations with another acceptable offeror.

VII. OTHER

A. Government Furnished Property (GFP)/Government Furnished Information

(GFI)/Contractor Acquired Property (CAP):

http://www.dss.mil/

i. Government Furnished Property (GFP): GFP will be specified on each individual Task Order.

ii. The Government will provide maximum accommodation possible for requests of GFP, GFI or other permitted assistance that arise during the performance of the contract. In accordance with FAR 45.201(b), the contractor is responsible for all costs related to making the property available for use, such as payment of all transportation, installation or rehabilitation costs.

iii. In accordance with FAR 45.201(c), if GFP is requested, offerors shall submit the following information with their offer:

a. A list or description of all Government property that the offeror or its subcontractors propose to use on a rent-free, non-interference basis. The list shall identify the accountable contract under which the property is held and the authorization for its use (from the Contracting Officer having cognizance of the property);

b. The dates during which the property will be available for use

(including the first, last, and all intervening months) and, for any property that will be used concurrently in performing two or more contracts, the amounts of the respective uses in sufficient detail to support prorating the rent;

c. The amount of rent that would otherwise be charged in accordance with FAR 52.245-9 Use and Charges (APR 2012);

and

d. A description of the offeror’s property management system, plan, and any customary commercial practices, voluntary consensus standards, or industry-leading practices and standards to be used by the offeror in managing Government property.

iv. Contractor Acquired Property (CAP): The offeror may propose CAP as necessary to fulfill the proposed objectives. Offerors should be aware that the Government will cross-check any CAP proposed with AFRL/RVOI/LMCA for availability.

v. The following clauses will be incorporated into any contract(s) resulting from this BAA: FAR 52.245-1 Government Property (JAN 2017) or Alternate I (APR 2012), FAR 52.245-9 Use and Charges (APR 2012), DFARS 252.211.7007 Reporting of Government-Furnished Property (AUG 2012), DFARS 252.245-7001 Tagging, Labeling, and Marking of Government-Furnished Property (APR 2012), DFARS 252.245-7002 Reporting Loss of Government Property (DEC 2017), DFARS 252.245- 7003 Contractor Property Management System Administration (APR 2012), DFARS 252.245-7004 Reporting, Reutilization, and Disposal (DEC 2017).

B. Available Base Support/Facilities: If requested, AFRL test facilities may be made available and include buildings (space and equipment). Base support, including access to AFRL facilities located on Kirtland AFB, is available for offerors and shall be proposed in accordance with the AET Supplemental Requirements included as Attachment 2 to this BAA. Offerors shall specifically call out elements of the effort proposed to be conducted within the confines of Kirtland AFB, NM, and those that are to be performed off-site. Any differences in on-site versus off-site rates shall be specifically annotated.

C. Data Rights: The Air Force Research Laboratory is engaged in the discovery, development, and integration of warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace forces. As such, rights in technical data and non-commercial software (NCS) developed or delivered under this contract are of significant important to the Government and the AFRL/RDH AET program.

Per DFARS 227.7103-1, DoD policy is to acquire only the technical data and the rights in that data, necessary to satisfy Government needs. Technical data, NCS and NCS documentation developed with mixed funding are expected to be delivered with at least Government Purpose Rights. Offerors that propose delivery of technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation subject to Government Purpose Rights should fully explain what technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation developed with costs charged to indirect cost pools and/or costs not allocated to a Government contract will be incorporated, how the incorporation will benefit the project, and address whether those portions or processes are segregable.

Offers that propose delivery of technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation subject to Limited Rights, Restricted Rights, or Specifically Negotiated License Rights will be considered. Proposals should fully explain what technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation developed with costs charged to indirect cost pools and/or costs not allocated to a Government contract will be incorporated and how the incorporation will benefit the project.

Offerors are reminded that completion of DFARS 252.227-7017 Identification and Assertion of Restrictions on the Government’s Use, Release or Disclosure of Technical Data or Computer Software is required under DFARS 252.227-7013 Rights in Technical Data - Noncommercial Items (FEB 2014) and DFARS 252.227-7014 Rights in Noncommercial Computer Software and Noncommercial Computer Software Documentation (FEB 2014). Data rights offered other than “Unlimited Rights,” as defined in DFARS 227.7103-5, should be identified in DFARS 252.227-7017 (refer to Page K-26 of the Section K, included as Attachment 7 to this BAA). If no data rights are being asserted state “none” in the assertions. Assertions must be completed at the Task Order level with specificity with regard to each item, component or process listed. Nonconforming assertions lists will be rejected.

DFARS clause 252.227-7014(d) describes requirements for incorporation of third party computer software (commercial and noncommercial). Any commercial software to be incorporated into a deliverable must be clearly identified in the proposal. Many commercial software licenses may not be acceptable to the Government, therefore commercial software licenses proposed for delivery to the Government must be approved by the Contracting Officer prior to award.

The terms Unlimited Rights, Government Purpose Rights, Specifically Negotiated License Rights, and Limited Rights in technical data are as defined in DFARS 252.227-7013. The terms Unlimited Rights, Government Purpose Rights, Specifically Negotiated License Rights, and Restricted Rights in noncommercial computer software and noncommercial software documentation are as defined in DFARS 252.227-7014. The term Commercial Computer Software is as defined in DFARS clause 252.227-7014.

Data Rights Desired:

Technical Data: Unlimited Rights or Government Purpose Rights Non-Commercial Software (NCS): Unlimited Rights or Government Purpose Rights

NCS Documentation: Unlimited Rights or Government Purpose Rights Commercial Computer Software Rights: Customary License, etc.

In exchange for paying for development of the data, the Government expects technical data, NCS, and NCS documentation developed entirely at Government expense to be delivered with Unlimited Rights.

The Government expects that delivery of technical data, NCS, and NCS documentation subject to Government Purpose Rights will fully meet program needs.

VIII. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INFORMATION

A. General Information:

i. PROPOSALS SHOULD BE SUMITTED AGAINST THIS BAA.

Proposals are due by 12:00 p.m., Mountain Standard Time (MST), 17 August 2021 and delivered via the DoD SAFE website. Proposals received after the due date and time specified shall be governed by the provisions of FAR 52.215-1(c)(3). If the offeror does not have a Common Access Card (CAC), the offeror shall email the Contracting Points of Contact to request a “drop off” link to the DoD SAFE website. The offeror shall then use this link to “drop off” their proposal. Offerors are still required to email the Contracting Points of Contact to request the link with enough time to upload the proposal by the above stated date and time.

Proposals received after the above stated date and time as a result of security delays or delays in requesting the DoD SAFE link will be considered “late.” Early proposal submission is encouraged.

NOTE: CLASSIFIED MATERIAL SHOULD NOT BE INCLUDED IN THE

PROPOSAL AND SHOULD NOT BE SUBMITTED WITH THE

PROPOSAL. IF NECESSARY, CLASSIFIED MATERIAL SHALL BE

SUBMITTED AS A SEPARATE ADDENDUM. SPECIFIC

INSTRUCTIONS FOR SUBMITTING A CLASSIFIED ADDENDUM, UP

TO SECRET COLLATERAL, ARE PROVIDED IN SECTION VIII. A. ii.

OF THE FULL TEXT ANNOUNCEMENT.

ii. The Government anticipates proposals will be unclassified. However, the

Government also anticipates that submitting a classified addendum may be required to explain analysis used to estimate system performance (effective range, system trades, etc.). If an offeror determines that the submission of classified information is necessary, they should contact the TPOC identified in this BAA (FA9451-21-S-0002, Full Text Announcement, Section IV. A.) prior to submitting a classified addendum to coordinate the appropriate means of submission. Offerors should notify the Government as early as possible to allow for adequate processing.

Any information provided as an addendum to the Technical Volume will count towards the Technical Volume page limits, and is held to the same format, and date/time proposal submission requirements.

iii. Potential offerors are requested to advise the Contracting Officer if they intend to submit a proposal in response to this BAA. Such notification is merely a courtesy and is not a commitment by the offeror to submit a proposal.

iv. This BAA is an expression of interest only and does not commit the

Government to pay for proposal preparation cost. The cost of preparing proposals in response to this BAA is not considered an allowable direct charge to any resulting contract or to any other contract. However, it may be an allowable indirect expense as specified in FAR 31.205-18 Independent Research and Development and Bid and Proposal Costs.

v. There are no limits to the number of proposals an offeror may submit.

Each proposal will need to have its own unique contractor-generated proposal identification number and must be submitted separately.

vi. Information important to submitting complete and responsive offers to

Phillips Research Site (PRS) contracting opportunities can be found in the BAA Guide for Industry, included as Attachment 10 to this BAA.

vii. Offerors may be ineligible for award if all requirements of this BAA are not met by the proposal due date and time.

B. Proposal Submission:

i. Offerors should apply the restrictive notice prescribed in FAR 52.215-1(e) Instructions to Offerors—Competitive Acquisition (JAN 2017). Properly marked proprietary information will be treated in accordance with DFARS 252.227-7016 Rights in Bid or Proposal Information (JAN 2011).

ii. The Technical and Business/Cost Volumes must be submitted in separate volumes, and shall be valid for 180 days. Proposals must reference the BAA number and include a unique contractor-generated proposal identification number. Unnecessarily elaborate brochures or presentations beyond that to present a complete and effective proposal are not desired.

iii. Offerors must submit a cover letter, one (1) original electronic copy of the

Basic IDIQ proposal and six (6) initial Task Order proposals. Electronic copies of the cost proposal worksheet(s) must be in Microsoft Office Excel and must contain all cell formulas. The proposal must be submitted via the Department of Defense (DoD) Secure Access File Exchange (SAFE) Website (https://safe.apps.mil). Submitted responses should be in Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format. Proposals sent as a hardcopy will not be accepted. Hand deliveries will not be accepted. If offerors does not have a Common Access Card (CAC) to send files via the DoD SAFE website, contact the Contracting Points of Contact to obtain a passcode.

iv. Non-Government Advisors: There will be no Non-Government

Advisors.

C. Specific Proposal Preparation Instructions

i. Offerors must propose each of the following to be considered for an IDIQ award:

a. Basic IDIQ award

1. Technical Volume

2. Contractor’s Statement of Work (CSOW) in response to the Basic SOO

3. Business Volume

b. Initial Task Order(s)

1. Technical Volume

2. CSOW in response to the initial Task Order SOO

3. Business/Cost Volume (separate into Business and Cost

Sections)

ii. Cover Letter: A cover letter shall accompany each proposal. The cover letter should identify the BAA number under which the proposal is submitted, a statement that the proposal is valid for 180 days (from the due date specified in the BAA), provide technical and contracting points of contact, Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code, Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) number, and a statement indicating if the firm is a small business, veteran-owned small business, service-disabled veteran-owned small business, HUBZone small business, small disadvantaged business, 8(a), or women-owned small business concern. The proposal must be signed and dated by an authorized official of the organization.

iii. Technical Volume:

a. Page Limitation: Proposal shall be prepared and submitted in

Microsoft or Adobe Acrobat (PDF) form. The Technical Volume https://safe.apps.mil/ shall be limited to twenty (20) pages for the Basic IDIQ and thirty

(30) pages for each of the 6 initial Task Orders.

1. Font shall be standard 12-point font Arial.

2. Character spacing must be “normal,” not condensed in any manner.

3. Pages shall be single-spaced, double-sided (each side counts as one page), 8.5 by 11 inches, with at least one-inch margins on all sides.

4. Smaller type may be used in figures and tables as long as it is clearly legible.

5. Pages shall be numbered starting with the cover page being Page 1.

6. The page limitation covers all information including indices, photographs, foldouts (counted as one page for each 8.5 by 11 portion) tables, charts, appendices, and attachments.

Blank pages, resumes, title pages, tables of content, lists, tabs or cover sheets are not included in the page count.

7. Note: The Government will check the Technical

Volume for conformance to the stated requirements.

Any pages in excess of the stated page limitation will not be considered for evaluation purposes.

b. Content: Each Technical Volume shall include a discussion of the nature and scope of the research and the technical approach.

Each Technical Volume must address the problems or limitations of the technical area and the intended application(s). Each Technical Volume shall include (at a minimum) the following items:

1. Executive Summary: Describe the proposed program objectives and approach. A description of the innovation and benefits of the proposed approach and relationship to previous efforts should be discussed. It should summarize the technical issues addressed by the offeror’s proposal without repeating the objectives. This should provide a vision of what will ultimately be achieved and what solution this effort will produce.

2. Program Description: Describe the techniques, methods, materials, or ideas that will be addressed in this proposal, their innovativeness, and to what degree they advance the state-of-the-art. The Program Description should convey to the Government that the offeror has a credible plan and is capable of achieving the SOO(s).

3. Program Plan: Describe in detail the planned approach and how it will be executed. This section should include all technical aspects of the approach. Provide technical detail and analysis necessary to support the technical approach proposed. Clearly identify the core of the intended approach. The “new and creative” solution to the problem(s) should be developed and analyzed in this section. Include a risk assessment of key technical, schedule or cost areas and their potential impact on the program. If subcontractors are involved, identify why the proposed subcontractors are selected and what tasks they are to perform.

4. Milestone Chart: A Milestone Chart should indicate when specific objectives are expected to be met in the overall schedule and should identify the specific accomplishments necessary to proceed to the next task. Provide a schedule of when deliverable items identified in this BAA are to be delivered.

5. Facilities and Equipment description: Describe the facilities that will be used to achieve the goals of the program, in terms of manufacturing capability, testing facilities, and/or any relevant specialized equipment.

Identify any Government facilities which may be utilized.

6. Summary of Relevant Prior Work: Provide a brief summary of the results of related previous or current Government, commercial, or internally funded work performed during the past five (5) years.

7. Management Plan: Offerors should provide an approach that demonstrates the ability to effectively and efficiently manage and administer the research program to a successful conclusion, to include:

i. Schedule, cost, and risk management approach

ii. Subcontractor management and quality control

iii. Safety

iv. Security

v. Proposed level of interaction with the Government

Team

8. Resumes of Key Individuals: Include resumes for all proposed key personnel, consultants or subcontractors.

Include the full time equivalent (FTE) percent (%) of their time commitment to this effort. Suggested key personnel are: Program Manager, Principle Investigators, Senior Engineers and additional individuals deemed key to the successful execution of the proposed work per task.

Provide position descriptions for any positions not filled at the time of proposal submittal. Resumes can be attached to the Technical Volumes, are limited to three (3) pages each, and do not count toward the Technical Volume page limit.

c. Contractor’s Statement of Work (CSOW):

1. Each CSOW (non-proprietary, stand-alone document) should detail the research to be accomplished under AET and should be suitable for incorporation into the awarded document. Do not include any proprietary information in the CSOW. Each proposed CSOW should summarize the technical methodology and the task description, but not to the extent making the awarded instrument inflexible.

CSOWs are to be prepared and submitted in Microsoft Work or Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format and are subject to the same format and font guidelines as the Technical Volume. Each C-SOW should address/include:

i. The anticipated deliverables (data and reports, hardware, software, etc.) and submission dates (Initial Task Order CSOW only)

ii. The Supplemental Requirements included as

Attachment 2 to this BAA (Basic CSOW only)

For additional assistance in preparing the CSOWs, refer to the following guidance (paragraphs 2 – 4 below) and the “Guide to Preparing Contractor Statements of Work” included as Attachment 6 to this BAA.

2. The Basic SOO and initial Task Order SOOs provide the

Government’s objectives for this BAA. Offerors shall use the SOOs, together with other applicable portions of this BAA (including all attachments), as the basis for preparing their proposals. Offerors shall ensure all aspects of the SOOs are addressed.