Neutralization In Challenging Environments Using Lethal Effects (NICELE)

The U.S. Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR) is seeking to develop underwater payloads that enable Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures (ExMCM) forces to neutralize deep water mines and water-borne improvised explosive devices (WBIEDs). The Neutralization In Challenging Environments Using Lethal Effects (NICELE) program requires technologies for target sensing/localization, energetic/reactive tools, and ROV/diver teaming to address these hazardous threats. Applicants may submit proposals for grants or procurement contracts, with an Industry Day scheduled for January 31, 2025 (registration by January 10, 2025), white papers due March 20, 2025, and full proposals due May 12, 2025. Proposals must be unclassified, though the Industry Day will be SECRET.

The NICELE program falls under CFDA 12.300 (Basic and Applied Scientific Research) and is anticipated to issue awards with 3-5 year performance periods. While specific award amounts are not provided, recent grants and cooperative agreements under this program have ranged from $20,000 to over $6 million. Work is expected to be performed at the recipient's facilities, which may include research universities, non-profits, and other organizations across the United States.