High Enthalpy Aperture Technology (HEAT)

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency seeks proposals through its High Enthalpy Aperture Technology program to develop new aperture materials capable of withstanding extreme thermal and dynamic pressures. Proposals are due by July 28, 2020 and shall address innovative radio frequency and infrared aperture materials as well as enabling aperture technologies to further hypersonic operational capabilities. Phase I awards will fund demonstration of materials meeting specified performance metrics over 24 months, with optional Phase II extensions available to further mature technologies. Proposals will be evaluated based on overall scientific and technical merit, relevance to DARPA's mission, security considerations, and cost realism.

No set-aside provisions are designated for this opportunity. Relevant NAICS codes include 336413 and 541715, with primary PSC codes R408 and R425. Phase I awards are expected to range from $500,000 to $1,000,000 over two years, extending up to $3,000,000 should Phase II options be exercised. The four-year program involves ground testing at month 21 of Phase I and month 48 overall to evaluate materials in simulated hypersonic flight conditions.