Low Cost Innovative Projects (Projects Less Than One Million Dollars Each):
Abstract
The OSD Comparative Technology Office in execution of the FCT Program selects multiple low cost projects in the areas of Force Application, Force Protection, Force Support, Logistics, Anti-Access/Area Denial, Robotics and Autonomous Systems, Interoperability and Countering Unmanned Systems. These projects were selected to deliver prototypes for evaluation, assessment, and Service adoption within 12 to 36 months. Projects: -Civil Affairs Solution-Army Analytics (USSOCOM): This project tests intelligence software that fuses imagery from UAS and satellites with other sensor data and applies uses AI/ML to rapidly provide actionable analytics. This technology supports Department of Defense Civil Affairs operations by analyzing population migration caused by conflict or natural disasters to enabling dynamic planning for Large Scale Operations. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to the Army’s Distributed Common Ground System Program of Record. This project was approved out-of-cycle and initiated test planning in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Insensitive Munitions Fuze for the M67 Fragmentation Hand Grenade (Army): Comparatively tests off-the-shelf hand grenade fuzes to provide increased safety to the soldier while maintaining lethality for the widely used M67 fragmentation hand grenade. The M67 has been in use since the 1960's and does not meet current Insensitive Munitions safety standards. If successful, this technology will transition to Army, Program Executive Office Ammunition for follow on acquisition. Test articles delivered and initial safety testing occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Panoramic Infrared Sensor Test (Navy): Comparatively tests foreign naval panoramic Infrared sensors with autonomous detection capabilities to enhance shipboard detection and tracking of both surface and air targets to include low, slow, and SUAS. If successful, this technology will transition to the Navy's Program Executive Office for Integrated Warfare Systems for insertion into the future Guided Missile Frigate (FFG(X)) and Supercarrier CVN I-Stalker programs. Test articles received and acceptance testing began in FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Accurate Tracking & Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Navigation (Navy): This project tests sensors that enable accurate real-time tracking of unmanned underwater systems without the need for a high-cost Inertial Navigation Systems. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to Navy Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) and Remotely Operated Vehicles programs of record. Test articles procured in 1Q FY 2019. Lab testing occurred in 2Q FY 2019. Platform integration occurred 3Q FY 2019. Operational demonstration occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project will continue in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. PM will make a transition decision and close-out report will be completed by 2Q FY 2020. -Aerostable Penetrator (Army): Evaluates a foreign off-the-shelf 2.75-inch rocket motor integrated with a prototype U.S. developed flachette warhead to optimize lethality against light armor targets dispersed over an area. This project will demonstrate an affordable replacement solution for Cluster Munitions. If successful, this capability is anticipated to transition to the Army's Joint Attack Munition Systems Program Office. Additional test articles were received and characterization testing completed in 3Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Autonomous Aircraft Material Maintenance (Navy): This project tests a trailer-mounted, autonomous cold spray metallization technology for in-situ repair of corrosion damaged areas on aircraft. If successful, the technology will be available for follow-on procurement and fielding by the Navy's Fleet Readiness Centers. The project completed several demonstration events in FY 2019 for the military aviation community. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Diagnostics/Prognostics Test for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) (USSOCOM): This project conducts clinical studies to provide an assessment of the effectiveness of using a panel of specific micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA) biomarkers to detect a traumatic brain injury. The ability to objectively diagnose a TBI within 15 minutes allows medical providers to properly asses, evacuate, or return to duty military personnel in lieu of prolonged observation or evacuation that decreases readiness. If successful, the technology would be incorporated as a diagnostic aid at military treatment facilities. Through the follow-on development of a portable diagnostic system (PDS), the Diagnostic/Prognostic Test for TBI will be incorporated into the USSOCOM Tactical Combat Casualty Care Program of Record. The initial study was completed in 2Q FY 2019. Data collection continued in 3Q-4Q FY 2019 with a larger population to meet Food and Drug Administration requirements proving product viability. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Multi-Agent Identification Kit and Equipment (MIKE) Butt-pack (Army): Tests an off-the-shelf colorimetric chemical detection system currently in use with NATO assembled into a small, lightweight packaging configuration for U.S. military use. Enhances interoperability between U.S. and NATO forces and reduces resupply requirements and life cycle costs. If successful, the technology will be available for immediate purchase by Special Operations units and will be pursued for acquisition by the Army through the Guardian Joint Program Management Office. The test articles were demonstrated during the Army Experimental Warfighter Exercise in 2Q FY 2019 and underwent soldier testing in 4Q FY 2019 with live agents at White Sands. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Night Vision Device Capable Deck Status Display (Navy): This project evaluates a Deck Status Display currently in use with over ten countries that provides landing status to pilots through night vision compatible symbology instead of colors enabling safer night landing operations. If successful, this project will transition to the Navy’s Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment Program of Record. Test articles underwent acceptance testing in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Quantum Communication, Cryptography, and Networking for Secure Satellite Communications (Air Force): This project evaluates a Quantum Key Distribution System (QKDS) for application to high priority encryption requirements. QKDS enables secure encrypted communication without the need to pre-generate, store, and secure large numbers of encryption keys. Quantum cryptography technology promises secure encryption, while making network intrusion without detection impossible. Enhances DoD capabilities in the Quantum science focus area. If successful, the technology will transition to the Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center and Air Force Global Strike Command for satellite payload and ground station applications. Test articles received and laboratory testing completed in FY 2019. This effort continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Reserve Battery for Munitions (Army): This project comparatively tests foreign off-the-shelf reserve battery solutions for use with medium caliber, mortar, and artillery applications to enhance the industrial base. If successful, the Army's Armaments Research Development and Engineering Center will pursue acquisition through either direct purchase from a foreign source or licensed production by a U.S. company. This project completed laboratory testing in 2Q FY 2019 and initiated live fire testing in 4Q FY 2019. This effort continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Rapid Obscuring System (ROSY) (Army): This project comparatively tests advanced vehicle obscuring smoke grenade systems from Germany and France. Modern off-the-shelf systems have potential to replace decades old technology and enable 360 coverage in both the visible and infrared spectrums. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to the Army’s Program Manager for Vehicle Protection Systems. Static grenade testing was conducted in 3Q FY 2019. Live fire testing from a Bradley Fighting Vehicle occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This effort continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -Tactical Debriefing System (Navy): This project evaluates a mission and military exercise debriefing tool currently in use with the Finnish Air Force to increase the quality of and reduce the time required to generate after action reviews. The system will be modified to support Electronic Warfare debriefing, a capability that does not currently exist. If successful, this technology will transition to the Navy’s aircraft mission debriefing system program. Software received and integrated for acceptance testing in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. - 2.75 Inch Guided Rocket System for Asymmetric Force Engagement of Fast In-Shore Attack Craft (FIAC) for (Navy): This project evaluates a "fire and forget" rocket system with an advanced imaging infrared seeker to counter FIAC swarms. If successful, the technology will transition to the Office of Naval Research for follow-on prototype evaluations prior to fielding. Characterization testing occurred in FY 2019 and live-fire testing will be completed in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -HALO Integration with Common Remotely Operated Weapon System (CROWS) (Army): The CROWS provides the capability to locate and attack targets without exposing operators to enemy fire. This project tests an image processor technology add-on to the CROWS that fuses day and night images to enhance target detection and reduce motion blur to increase lethality. If successful, this capability is anticipated to transition to the Army’s CROWS Program of Record. This project continued in FY 2019 with operational prototype testing. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds and will complete in final test report and transition decision in 3Q FY 2020. -Supercavitating Ammunition (NAVY): This project comparatively tests small caliber ammunitions with supercavitating properties for use in the undersea environment. If successful, the ammunition will be available for immediate transition to Naval Special Forces. Test planning initiated in 2Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funding. Live fire demonstration scheduled for 1Q FY 2020. A final test report and transition decision is scheduled for 2Q FY 2020. Project closes in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funding. -Blood and IV Warmer (NAVY/USMC): This project tests a lightweight, portable blood warmer that is suitable for expeditionary use. If successful, this technology will transition to U.S. Marine Corps Product Manager Supply & Maintenance Systems through the Authorized Medical Allowance List Modernization Program for follow on acquisition. Test article contract awarded in 3Q FY 2019. Acceptance testing completed in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funding and completes in 3Q FY 2020 with decision to pursue approval by the Food and Drug Administration prior to fielding. -Smartshooter Evaluation (Army): This project evaluates an intelligent fire control system for assault rifles that is capable of identifying, selecting, and locking onto stationary or moving targets. This technology significantly improves shooter accuracy and probability of hit while reducing engagement times. If successful, the Army's Program Manager for Soldier Weapons will transition the technology into its Next Generation Fire Control development program. Test articles acquired, tested, and demonstrated in FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Transparent Ceramic Armor (Army): This project evaluates armor technology that is fifty percent lighter and thinner than existing glass-based systems for application on rotary wing and other military platforms. This technology provides a cost effective solution versus competing products. If successful, the technology will be incorporated into the CH-47 Multi-Impact Transparent Armor System program of record. Test articles received in 3Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -AT4 Confined Space Tandem Warhead (Army): This project tests the a new warhead for the existing AT4 84mm shoulder fired weapon system to increase lethality by enabling fire from enclosure and the ability to engage structures and light armored targets. Performance verification testing occurred in FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology for Small UAS (Air Force): This project comparatively tests foreign hydrogen fuel cells to increase the performance and range of Small UAS versus using traditional battery technology. If successful, this technology will transition to Air Force Special Operations Command Small UAS programs for follow-on procurement and fielding. Laboratory testing of individual fuel cells occurred in 1Q-2Q FY 2019. Safety certification and integration with platforms occurred in 3Q-4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Small Size Weight and Power (SWaP) Mid-Wave Infrared (MWIR) Camera for Small UAS (Air Force): This project evaluates the performance of a low-cost, small SWaP MWIR camera system for Small UAS. Existing MWIR cameras are too large and cost prohibitive Small UAS applications. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to Air Force Research Laboratory on-going Small UAS development programs. Test articles received in 3Q FY 2019. Laboratory testing and gimbal integration occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. Final test and closeout reports are expected 3Q FY 2020 using FY 2019 funding. -Low-Cost Autonomous Target Classification (L-CATC) (Navy): This project conducts at-sea testing of underwater passive acoustic sensors and associated processing software. This technology provides an increased probability of detection and classification for both surface and submerged vessels. Test article engineering change initiated in 4Q FY 2019. Final test and closeout reports are expected 1Q FY 2020 using FY 2019 funds. -Energy Storage for Directed Energy Weapons and Sensors (Navy): This project tests graphene based ultra-capacitors for enhancing the capabilities energy storage systems. If successful, the technology will transition to the Multifunction Energy Storage Future Naval Capability effort. Completed final test and closeout reports in 1Q FY 2019. -Enhancing DoD Circuit Card Repair (Navy): This project evaluates a portable circuit card test system that could significantly enhance Department of Defense diagnostic capabilities. Test article contract awarded in 3Q FY 2019. Test articles received in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. Acceptance testing will complete in 1Q FY 2020. Information assurance evaluation will complete in 2Q FY 2020 and demonstrations by maintenance personnel in the field will complete in 3Q FY 2020. Final test report and project closeout to complete in 4Q FY 2020. -Simultaneous Multi-Channel Modem (USSOCOM): Evaluates an off-the-shelf device that autonomously disaggregates and transports data over multiple networks simultaneously. Phase I laboratory testing was completed in FY 2019. This technology did not meet requirements and will not proceed to Phase II field testing. A final test report and project closeout will complete in 1Q FY 2020 with FY 2019 funds. -105 Millimeter Family of Multi-Purpose Munitions (Army): This project tests two variants of a multi-purpose 105 millimeter munitions including High Explosive (HE) and Anti-Personnel/Anti Material for increased lethality, safety, and reliability. If successful, the technology will be available for transition to the Army’s Mobile Protected Firepower vehicle program. Test article contract awarded in FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Uncooled 120 Hertz Longwave Infrared Focal Plane Arrays for Night Vision Sensors (Army): This project tests foreign developed focal plane array technology for next generation night vision devices. Recent advancements in optical technology offer increased resolution and refresh rates for night vision applications, which enable enhanced situational awareness. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to Army’s Project Manager for Soldier Sensors and Lasers for insertion into programs of record. Test article acquisition and integration occurred in FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Modular Airdrop Platform (Army): This project tests an innovative airdrop platform system with underside airbags that eliminates the need for energy dissipating material. The technology will increase lethality and readiness by enabling a rapid roll-on/off capability and will significantly reduce logistics costs. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to the Product Manager, Force Sustainment Systems - Cargo Air Delivery for insertion into the Advanced Low Velocity Airdrop System Program of Record. Ground testing completed in 3Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Magnetic Signature Duplicator System (Army): This project evaluates the performance of a foreign magnetic signature duplicator and against known landmine threats. If successful, the technology will be available for transition to the Army’s Mounted Detection System Program of Record for follow on acquisition. Test planning and contract award occurred in FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Personal Dosimeter as an Emergency Response System (Army): This project tests foreign Dosimeter technology along with an automated field analytics system for rapid identification and triage of individuals exposed to radiological or nuclear substances. This technology will be tested alongside the current Joint Personal Dosimeter to determine capabilities in an operational environment. If successful, this technology will transition to the Joint Program Manger Guardian program of record. This project was initiated out-of-cycle in 4Q FY 2019. Initial test planning and contract preparation occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Artificial Intelligence (AI) Neuromorphic Chip (Army): This project evaluates a low cost neuromorphic chip to replace the current paper and pencils method for counting 120-millimeter mortar rounds to more accurately determine weapon system life cycle maintenance. This effort demonstrates a tactical application of AI, will increase readiness, and could save millions of dollars in maintenance cost. If successful, this technology will be available for transition to the Army’s Stryker Program Office for follow on acquisition. This project was initiated out-of-cycle in 4Q FY 2019. Initial test planning and contract preparation occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -Vector Engine Processor for Use with Legacy Hypersonic Codes (Navy): This project evaluates a high-performance vector processor to significantly reduce time required to evaluate hypersonic designs. If successful, the technology will transition to the High Performance Computing Modernization Program. This project was initiated out-of-cycle in 4Q FY 2019. Initial test planning and contract preparation occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds. -High Powered Microwave (HPM) Electro-Optic Electromagnetic Field Sensors (Air Force): This project tests various foreign Electro-Optic Electromagnetic Field sensors for use at Department of Defense test ranges to enhance Directed Energy Weapon Research, Development, and Test and Evaluation efforts. Current radio frequency antennas are too large to embed within HPM targets and thus, are unable to accurately measure HPM effects. If successful, the technology will transition to the Air Force Research Laboratory for follow on procurement as a test asset in support of future HPM test and evaluation efforts. This project was initiated out-of-cycle in 4Q FY 2019. Initial test planning and contract preparation occurred in 4Q FY 2019. This project continues in FY 2020 with FY 2020 funds.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2021
- Source ID
- e2d32d9c1832ed8838d1103a654ecee6