MINSAV ARA CALL 04 QandA_10 June 2025.pdf
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- Attached to
- Microelectronics Innovation for Next-generation System Advancement and Validation (MINSAV) Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) with Calls Federal contract opportunity
- Solicitation number
- FA8650-19-S-1932
About this file
This document is a Questions and Answers (Q&A) file for the Microelectronics Innovation for Next-Generation System Advancement and Validation (MINSAV) Call 04, dated 10 June 2025. The Q&A provides clarification on key aspects of the solicitation, including technical and contractual details. Key points include confirmation that "demonstration units" and "boards" are synonymous, with an expectation to fabricate at least two DREX demonstration units (threshold) and potentially up to eight units. The program focuses on developing and rapidly transitioning an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), with performers expected to propose their own solution for a DREX (likely a specialized board or system component).
The document indicates the program is intended to be unclassified and anticipates awarding a Cost-Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type. Contractors without a DCMA-approved accounting system for cost-plus contracts may face limitations in prime contractor eligibility. Proposers are encouraged to provide information that strengthens their proposed transition path, with flexibility in targeting specific subsystems (such as Front-End Devices or flat panel arrays). The Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is managing this microelectronics innovation effort, which aims to advance sensor generation and processing technologies for national defense capabilities.
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Text version
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE
AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE OHIO
Microelectronics Innovation for Next-Generation System
Advancement and Validation (MINSAV) Call 04
Questions(Q) and Answers(A)
10 June 2025
Q: The solicitation refers to both demonstration ‘units’ and ‘boards’. Are these synonymous?
A: Yes. This is in the SOO here: “It is expected that the contractor shall fabricate at least two DREX demonstration units (threshold), with an objective for fabrication of eight DREX units.” – referring to DREX board assemblies.
Q: Is it the intention of Call 004 to focus on a DREX Board only? Is it acceptable to provide within our proposal, perhaps as an option, to design/fabricate/demonstrate additional elements associated with a transition-aligned DREX subsystem, beyond just the DREX board?
A: The DREX is all that is necessary. A more complete solution is fine within the allocated budget. The point is to develop and transition the ASIC rapidly.
Q: We believe a transition-aligned implementation will vary based upon intended missions and frequencies of operation. As such, is there a preferable DREX target subsystem? (Examples could be implementing a DREX suitable for a Front-End Device (FED), or implementing a DREX suitable for flat panel arrays (DARPA MIDAS-like apertures), etc.)
A: Performers will propose a solution and make their case.
Q: Is it anticipated that the awarded scope will be able to be performed as UNCLASSIFIED? Is it advisable to describe our company’s capabilities for classified program support and Points of Contact within our proposal?
A: The program is intended to be unclassified. Feel free to provide whatever info you believe will strengthen the proposed transition path.
Q: The solicitation states that CPFF contract type is expected. If the contractor is only able to accept FFP as our accounting system isn’t approved for cost plus type contracts. Does this limit contractors to being a subcontractor on the effort and ineligible to bid as the prime contractor? Or could there be an allowance for a FFP prime contract?
A: The Air Force reserves the right to award contract(s) pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 4023 based on the instrument deemed most appropriate. It is anticipated that contract(s) awarded under this call will be a Cost-Plus Fixed Fee C-type contract. Cost reimbursement contracts require successful offerors to have an accounting system considered adequate by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) for tracking costs applicable to the contract.
File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .