NARWHAL RED SOW.docx

AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY

ROME RESEARCH SITE

ROME, NEW YORK

STATEMENT OF WORK

FOR

NOVEL APPROACHES & RESEARCH FOR WARFIGHTING THAT HASTEN ARTIFICIAL LEARNING (NARWHAL) RED

PCSN TBD

30 JUN 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this effort is to develop, improve, and advance radio frequency (RF) spectral characterization and automated machine-to-machine signal processing capabilities for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) tactical and strategic warfighting forces. To achieve this, this effort focuses on two distinct sub-objectives: enhancing ISR capabilities and enabling effective counter-targeting missions.

The first sub-objective centers on developing and integrating digital signal processing technologies to characterize the RF spectrum. This includes research, development, enhancement, maintenance, upgrading, and interoperability/integration of technologies aimed at discovering and extracting high-priority emissions. A key aspect is improving the collection, detection, and exploitation of high-priority adversarial machine-to-machine communications and emerging signals of interest (SOI).

The second sub-objective focuses on providing real-time, automated machine-to-machine, signal processing solutions to automatically extract content from transmissions and deliver time-critical alerts and information on collected signals. A core element is an extendable signal processing framework that incorporates specific standards for signal definitions and waveforms. This framework must be of modular software design, enabling users/operators to adapt to new configurations for automated machine-to-machine communications or transmission signals without requiring custom software updates, development, or distribution delays.

Ultimately, this effort will produce prototype systems that can be rapidly fielded, upgraded, and transitioned to operational warfighters to address both current and emerging requirements.

2.0 SCOPE

2.1 This effort will support the research, development, maintenance, and upgrading of signal processing systems and capabilities for accessing and exploiting automated machine-to-machine communications or transmission SOIs. These technologies will advance Air Force ISR capabilities by researching innovative concepts and developing state-of-the-art signals intelligence (SIGINT) capabilities, including real-time collection, identification, and signal exploitation. By taking a holistic view of the RF spectrum, these efforts will enable recognition of behavioral changes in activity and highlight emitter associations, driving signal targeting prioritization. Technologies developed under this effort should be designed for rapid transition to operational warfighters. The scope includes:

2.1.1 Research and develop signal processing systems that detect, collect, derive, and exploit current and emerging SOI.

2.1.2 Research and develop methods for deriving identifiable information from systems and SOI.

2.1.3 Improve scanning fidelity of prior system capabilities. Scan the RF spectrum for both analog and digital signals and then analyze the contents of these signals to determine the existence of high-value content.

2.1.4 Demonstrate hardware and software prototype capabilities at the following locations for open-air calibration and testing to assess developed systems and techniques: Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Rome Research Site (RRS), Rome, NY; Stockbridge Experimentation and Test Facility, Stockbridge, NY; and Playas Research and Training Center (PRTC), Kirtland AFB, NM.

2.1.5 Provide expert-level knowledge of automated machine-to-machine communications or transmission signals analysis and development of new algorithm capabilities for processing emerging technologies with near-term transition to systems that provide indications and warning (I&W) to enhance airborne, ground-based, and maritime SIGINT missions.

2.1.6 Research and develop streamlined methods that implement intelligence community (IC) standards such as Secure Cryptographic Protocol for Transmission Systems (SCRYPTS) and standard operating task framework (SOTF) to minimize custom software updates for new/modified communications.

2.1.7 Develop a framework that incorporates whole-signal characterization algorithms for baselining the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) that provide near-real-time (NRT) discovery and alerts.

2.1.8 Deliver prototype systems that scan the RF spectrum, find SOI (or candidate SOI) based on self-derived associated characteristics, perform sub-processing routines, and analyze signal contents for the presence of identifiable information.

2.1.9 Deliver software-based applications that process detected signals and extract pertinent information for presentation to a user to improve reliable situational awareness.

2.1.10 Implement and integrate/interoperate developed technologies into autonomous manned/unmanned airborne, land-based, and maritime platforms.

2.1.11 Perform technology refreshes during development that enhance and upgrade systems to remain current while effecting a limited sustainment of developed software and hardware.

3.0 BACKGROUND

3.1 Modern ISR operations face increasing challenges due to the rapid proliferation of new technologies used by adversaries across the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS). These emergent threats leverage complex and dynamic communication methods that significantly diminish the effectiveness of traditional SIGINT processes. To maintain a decisive advantage, novel processing techniques are required to provide decision-makers with relevant information in NRT.

The advancement of edge processing technologies offers a potential solution, enabling real-time analysis against emerging communication targets directly at the sensor level. This approach, combined with hardware-agnostic software development, promotes modularity and facilitates the rapid distribution of newly developed capabilities to diverse platforms. Furthermore, the integration of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) methodologies into SIGINT systems is crucial for enhancing sensor autonomy and streamlining data analysis.

The need for automation is paramount due to the increasing volume and complexity of signals in the EMS, coupled with the time-critical nature of ISR missions and the high workload of analysts. AI/ML-driven automation can empower junior operators with simplified processing tools, enabling them to efficiently gather and analyze intelligence. Specifically, automating key tasks such as modulation identification, internal data structure analysis, and overall signal classification will streamline exploitation and support the Government's push towards autonomous operations.

To address these challenges, SIGINT research and development for ISR will be focused on three broad technology areas: signal discovery, signal processing, and automation enhancement. Signal discovery aims to identify and catalog SOI from vast amounts of unknown signals. Signal processing focuses on distinguishing between signal communication layers to extract information, representing research and reverse engineering of complex RF waveforms to recover single-channel or multiple-channel data. AI/ML-driven automation will enhance signal processing by automating existing manual techniques, which struggle to cope with the scale and complexity of the modern EMS.

4.0 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

4.1 The Contractor shall accomplish the following as tasked. The requirements may encompass rapid R&D, design, prototyping, demonstration, scenario development, experimentation and evaluation, integration, testing, technical installation, technical refreshes and transition. The Contractor shall address requirements relevant to ISR activities. When applicable, open standards shall be used for the development of software capabilities. Installation and fielding of developed technologies shall be accomplished with the coordination of Government (both AFRL & Transition Partner) entities.

4.1.1 INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE, AND RECONNAISANCE (ISR)

4.1.1.1 Perform in-depth analysis of network and binary data structures to formulate decoding methods to incorporate into real-time processing solutions.

4.1.1.2 Perform in-depth signal analysis techniques on targeted communications to devise flexible processing solutions.

4.1.1.3 Develop automated processing capabilities against complex communications transmissions to include modulation identification, internal data structure mapping and overall automated classification.

4.1.1.4 Develop signal conditioning techniques and advanced waveform modulation capabilities.

4.1.1.5 Develop software to provide RF spectrum scanning and energy detection capabilities.

4.1.1.6 Develop methods for advanced geolocation capabilities.

4.1.1.6.1. Design, develop, integrate, and test techniques for advanced geolocation from multiple hardware and software platforms to geolocate SOI.

4.1.1.6.2 Design, develop and integrate tracking methods with new and existing geolocation algorithms to track moving SOI.

4.1.1.6.3 Research and design tools to enhance the geolocation mission definition to maximize geolocation performance.

4.1.1.7 Develop methods for development of both emerging signals and high-priority undeveloped legacy signals as required.

4.1.1.7.1 Perform signal research by both leveraging current techniques and investigating new and emerging signal processing techniques to detect and process these signals.

4.1.1.7.2 Research, access and collect Internet of Things (IoT) device communications using SOI.

4.1.1.8 Perform data collection and processing analysis, demonstrated through a simulated contested environment, e.g., the Stockbridge Experimentation and Test Facility (Stockbridge, NY) to enable system testing and evaluation.

4.1.1.9 Develop customized hardware and/or software designs for digital signal processing solutions utilizing common system design review (SDR) platforms.

4.1.2 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

4.1.2.1 Perform installation of system components resulting from ongoing research and development in representative environments.

4.1.2.2 Develop concept of operations for implementation and integration of developed signal processing solutions.

4.1.2.3 Field test and demonstrate system updates.

4.1.2.4 Perform training and transition documentation and assistance when deploying new systems.

4.1.2.5 Perform software/hardware integration of newly developed technologies onto operational platforms.

4.1.2.6 Perform software updates to incorporate new capabilities derived from ongoing R&D.

4.1.2.7 Perform software updates to address security vulnerabilities and stability issues throughout lifecycle.

4.1.2.8 Perform analysis to determine alternative methods to meet specific mission requirements.

4.1.2.9 Perform preventive and corrective hardware maintenance on installed systems throughout the lifecycle.

4.1.2.10 Perform field testing, evaluation, and system demonstrations throughout the lifecycle.

4.1.2.11 Perform trade-off studies to determine best methods to meet specific mission requirements.

4.1.3 Prototyping and platform integration design and development

4.1.5.1 Purchase and develop appropriate platforms designed to fulfill customer requirements, form factor and Size, Weight, and Power (SWAP) constraints as determined through customer interactions and operational requirements for prototypes and platforms.

4.2 REPORTS AND DOCUMENTATION

4.2.1 Continually determine the status of the effort and report progress toward accomplishment of contract requirements.

4.2.2 Document the details of all technical work accomplished, and information gained during the reporting period, to permit full understanding of technologies and procedures used in the development process. Include all system designs, operation instructions, and technical specifications.

4.2.3 Continually determine the status of funding required for task performance, e.g., Cost Funds Status Report (CFSR).

4.2.4 Conduct oral presentations on technical status at such times and places designated in the task schedules.

4.2.4.1 Kick-off presentations will be accomplished within thirty (30) days after the award of each individual order.

4.2.5 Document all technical work accomplished and information gained during performance of this acquisition. Include all pertinent observations, nature of problems, positive and negative results, and design criteria established where applicable. Document procedures followed, processes developed, “lessons learned,” etc. Document the details of all technical work to permit full understanding of the techniques and procedures used in evolving technology or processes developed. Cross-reference separate design, engineering, or process specifications delivered to permit a full understanding of the total acquisition.

4.3 SOFTWARE/HARDWARE

4.3.1 Deliver all software/hardware developed, assembled, or acquired to the Government in accordance with the task schedules and the following:

4.3.1.1 Deliver all software developed under all task efforts as source and object (executable) code. Include the commented source listings.

4.3.1.2 Document all software prototypes in the form of a User’s Manual.

4.3.1.3 Develop software under all task efforts to be completely maintainable and modifiable with no reliance on any non-delivered computer programs or documentation.

4.4 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

4.4.1 Comply with all safety and health requirements necessary for the protection of personnel, facilities and equipment including, but not limited to, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, while performing this contract at AFRL RRS, Rome, NY. It is the contractor’s sole responsibility to make certain that all safety requirements are met.

accident/incident (material and labor to replace/repair)

f. Nomenclature of equipment involved in accident/incident

g. Personnel involved in accident/incident

h. Corrective Actions (taken or proposed)

i. Other pertinent information

4.4.2 AFRL RRS uses a Safety and Health Management System (SHMS) to implement and manage its safety programs. A SHMS is a systematic approach to managing safety and health activities by integrating occupational safety and health programs, policies, and objectives into organizational policies and procedures. Simply stated, a SHMS is a set of safety of health and program components that interact in an organized way. An effective SHMS consists of five critical elements that apply safety and health management practices of employers who have been successful in protecting the safety and health of their employees. All contractors are required to familiarize themselves with the requirements of a SHMS. An example of a SHMS is OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP). Detailed information on VPP is available at the OSHA website at http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/vpp/index.html. On-site contractors are required to attend the Local Conditions for Newcomers (Course 2) as part of in-processing at AFRL RRS.

4.5 Security Risk Review – AFRLI 61-113

4.5.1 Contractor employees during the performance of this effort may be required to have access to Critical Technology Elements (CTE), Enabling technologies, Critical Program Information (CPI) or other potential sensitive information. Contractor employees will be required to protect this information from disclosure to unauthorized personnel and companies.

4.5.1.1 Provide a security plan to comply with the requirements of protection for this sensitive information when requested by the Government COTR/COR. (See CDRL, A00X – Security Plan)

4.5.1.2 Notify the Government immediately within 24 hrs of all security incidents involving loss, compromise, or suspected compromise of CTE/CPI IAW DoDM 5200.01-V3, Enclosure 6. CTE/CPI involved in the incident shall be specifically identified in inquiry and investigation reports.

4.5.1.3 Covered individuals shall be required to accomplish an updated, “Research and Related Senior/Key Person Profile” on an annual basis and be required to provide an updated list anytime new personnel join. In addition, whenever a new covered individual(s) is to be added or identified as performing under the funded project, a new Research and Related Senior and Key Person Profile will be required prior to continued performance. (See CDRL, A00X – R&R Profile)

4.5.1.4 If, at any time, during performance of this award, the contractor learns that its Senior/Key Research Personnel (including any sub awardee personnel who receive this designation) are or are believed to be participants in a Foreign Government Talent Program or have Foreign Components with a strategic competitor or country with a history of targeting U.S. technology for unauthorized transfer, the contractor will notify the Contracting/Agreements Officer within 5 business days of awareness.

4.5.1.5 In the event a security risk is identified, and the government has determined the security risk exceeds the acceptable threshold, the contractor will be notified and informed of the termination of award. The Government will be only required to provide a general statement of the reasoning due to government OPSEC measures.

4.5.1.6 Contractor will be required to flow down this provision to all sub awardees who have personnel designated as Senior/Key Research Personnel as a result of their involvement in the performance of the research.

4.5.2 If Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and associated Critical Information is involved in this effort, CUI shall be protected to prevent adversary collection and exploitation. Comply with DoDI 5200.48 CUI.

4.5.2.1 If requested by the Government COTR/COR, provide a security plan (or extract thereof) and any associated plans of action developed to satisfy the adequate security requirements of DFARS 252.204-7012, and in accordance with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-171, “Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations” Revision 2 to describe the contractor’s unclassified Information System(s)/network(s) where Covered Defense Information (CDI) is associated with the execution and performance of this contract and is processed, is stored, or transmitted. CDRL, Security Plan, A0XX)

4.5.2.2 If applicable, ensure that all personnel involved in this effort take CUI training through MyLearning https://lms-jets.cce.af.mil/moodle/ (if they have CAC) or through CDSE at https://securityawareness.usalearning.gov/cui/index.html.

4.5.3 Operations Security (OPSEC). In accordance with AFI 10-701, implement OPSEC measures, which shall include ensuring employees receive training and follow appropriate OPSEC measures during the performance of the contract. Implement OPSEC measures and must be an integral part of the daily activities.

4.5.3.1 If requested by the Government COTR/COR, develop and implement an OPSEC Standing Operating Procedure (SOP) for review and approval by the Government (COTR and AFRL/RIOF) in accordance with the CDRL.

4.5.3.2 OPSEC Training: This program requires that contractor personnel maintain OPSEC posture through training for all contract personnel involved in this effort. Ensure that employees complete Level I OPSEC training within thirty (30) calendar days of joining the project team. Employees must also complete annual OPSEC awareness training.