Q_A_Proposed Scintillation BAA Addendum 3.docx

HDTRA122S0003 – Addendum 3 – Topic Proposed Scintillation Q1. Does Paragraph 4.1.2 of Topic C (released 31 July 2025) mean that DTRA wishes the proposed solutions to include building a testable hardware prototype that can be interfaced to a DTRA-approved scintillation simulator?

A1. This topic is only seeking a scintillation mitigation technology (see paragraph 2. Background). As stated in paragraph 4.1.2, a technology demonstration is required. Without additional context, it is not immediately clear how the offeror would demonstrate scintillation mitigation technology effectiveness without a signal that is representative of one affected by scintillation, though a proposed solution, whether a prototype or a more mature solution, need not directly interface with the named simulators; they must only operate on the signal that is produced by the simulator. If the proposed solution requires a specific scintillation simulator not listed here, we remain interested in considering the proposal, though such a condition may make the proposed solution less favorable than one capable of working with existing scintillation simulators and/or their produced signals. Alternatively, if it is possible to demonstrate the solution's effectiveness without the use of such a device other way, DTRA will still consider the proposed solution.

Q2. This question relates to Paragraphs 4.2, 4.3, and 4.4 of Topic C. Should the requested information under these paragraphs be included in the White Paper, or only in the Phase II proposal? If they should be included in the White Paper, which section (1 – 4, as outlined in paragraph 3.5.1.2 of Amendment 2) should they appear in?

A2. In the white paper, citizenship of key personnel should be disclosed (as part of the technical approach). When submitting the Phase II proposal, there is an Applicant Certification in which prior experience with the US Government should be disclosed.

Q3. Paragraph 4.1 of Topic C states that DTRA is interested in RDTE at TRLs between 2 and 5. Does that mean that the current TRL of our technology should be between TRL 2 and 5, and that the anticipated TRL at maturity of that improved technology can exceed TRL 5? Or does it mean that the TRL at maturity of the proposed deliverables should be no higher than 5?

A3. The proposal should be focused on the solution the offeror intends to deliver as this is what DTRA is funding. According to DoD standards, TRL 7 requires a "demonstration of an actual system prototype in an operational environment such as an aircraft, vehicle, or space." The funding associated with this project is not likely to be sufficient to verify that TRL 7 has been met, and there is no expectation that it be, though there is no penalty for a solution that theoretically meets this TRL. TRL 6 is associated with having been " tested in a relevant environment. [It represents] a major step up in a technology's demonstrated readiness. Examples include testing a prototype in a high-fidelity laboratory environment or in simulated operational environment." The funding associated with this project is also likely insufficient to verify that TRL 6 has been met, likewise, there is no expectation that it be, though like TRL 7, there is no penalty for a solution that theoretically meets this TRL. In either case, DTRA does not intend to pursue activities to confirm TRLs in excess of 5 during this effort, which is defined as having been "tested in a simulated environment" such as with the aforementioned simulators.

Q4. This question pertains to options. Paragraph 1.3 on page 5 of Amendment 2 states that we should propose a Base period and then Options. Can these Options be for specific tasks, where the option periods may overlap, or should the Options only be for non-overlapping, sequential periods of performance?

A4. Options should be structured in the way that makes the most sense for the development effort, they can either be for specific “optional” tasks that can overlap after a base period delivers a basic product or for sequential periods of performance. Each option should have a clear start and end point should associated with it to ensure progress of the effort is able to monitored and if not successful terminated.