How to bid on Space And Missile Defense Technical Center Research Proposals for the Army

What the Army is buying and why it matters

The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (USASMDC) Space and Missile Defense Technical Center (SMDTC) is seeking research proposals. This supports their mission in science, technology, and test and evaluation for the joint warfighter. The SMDTC focuses on executing science and technology, research and development, and test and evaluation; managing the Ronald Reagan Ballistic Missile Defense Test Site; and conducting space operations and space domain awareness.

They are interested in four main technology areas: tactical responsive space and high-altitude technologies, test and evaluation, strategic weapon technologies, and hypersonic defeat. This is an opportunity for organizations to contribute to cutting-edge research that could significantly impact Army operational capabilities.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on August 28, 2024. The deadline for submissions is August 26, 2029, at 6:00 PM ET. This is a broad agency announcement, meaning proposals are accepted over an extended period. There are no specific submission dates provided for white papers or full proposals within this timeframe.

Interested parties should regularly check the SMDTC webpage for updates on research topics and the official government portals for any amendments to the solicitation document itself.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for a wide range of organizations involved in scientific research. This includes institutions of higher education, nonprofit organizations, state and local governments, and for-profit organizations, including both large and small businesses.

Firms with expertise in responsive space technologies, high-altitude technologies, test and evaluation, strategic weapon technologies, or hypersonic defense will find this particularly relevant. The Army is looking for innovative research concepts that align with the SMDTC's mission.

How to respond to this solicitation

To begin, prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the ACC-RSA SMD/SP Points of Contact (POCs) identified in Section V of the full solicitation document. These POCs will provide an SMDTC Technical Point of Contact (TPOC) to discuss your research concept.

After this initial discussion, if you choose to submit a white paper (Step 1), prepare it according to the instructions in the solicitation. The white paper will be reviewed, and you will receive a recommendation to either submit or not submit a full proposal. If encouraged, prepare your full proposal (Step 2) following the specific guidelines in the solicitation, which differ based on the legal instrument (e.g., procurement contracts, assistance instruments, other transactions).

You can access the full opportunity details by clicking 'View original source' on the portal. If the first click leads to the homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. A free account may be needed to view documents.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Given the nature of this broad agency announcement, early engagement is key. Contacting the provided POCs to discuss your concept before submitting a white paper can help ensure your research aligns with the Army's interests and available funding. This initial discussion can save valuable time and resources.

Carefully review the SMDTC webpage for current research topics, as these are updated regularly. While these topics are suggestive, ensure your proposed innovative research clearly demonstrates relevance to the Army's mission. When preparing your white paper and full proposal, strictly adhere to all submission guidelines outlined in the solicitation, paying close attention to the specific requirements for the type of legal instrument you are proposing.