The Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO) under the Office of the Secretary of Defense has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA), designated HY0233-SCO-24-BAA-0001, seeking innovative research and development proposals in key defense technology areas. SCO is a rapid prototyping organization that aims to deliver advanced capabilities within 3-5 years to address high-priority military and strategic challenges. The BAA is issued under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 6.102(d)(2) and 35.016, allowing awards in the form of procurement contracts or Other Transaction (OT) agreements under 10 U.S.C. §§ 4021-4022.

This BAA remains open until August 31, 2029, with white papers accepted on a rolling basis. SCO anticipates multiple awards depending on the quality of submissions and available funding. Proposals should focus on one of five technical areas: Autonomous Systems, Deep Learning, Cyber, Cross-Domain Kill Chains, and Non-Traditional Defense Technologies. Submissions should prioritize cross-service applicability and defense/intelligence operations.

Eligible applicants include large and small businesses, nontraditional defense contractors, research institutions, and universities. While Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Minority Institutions (MIs), and small businesses are encouraged to apply, there is no set-aside for these entities. Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) and government entities must demonstrate eligibility and provide documentation from their sponsoring organizations. Foreign entities and individuals may participate under strict compliance with nondisclosure agreements, security regulations, and export control laws.

SCO uses a two-phase evaluation process, beginning with a white paper submission, followed by proposal invitations for selected concepts. White papers should be six pages maximum, detailing the technical approach, expected benefits, cost estimates, and transition plans. Proposals will be evaluated on scientific and technical merit, feasibility, program relevance, cost realism, and transition potential. SCO prioritizes concepts that can rapidly transition to operational use within five years.

Submission guidelines require white papers to be uploaded through SCO’s BAA website (https://baa.sco.mil). Classified submissions require special handling, with prior coordination required via sco.security@sco.mil. Selected proposals will undergo contract negotiations, and awards may include follow-on production contracts or OTs if the prototype project is successfully completed.

For additional information, applicants can contact:

Contracting Officer: Joanne Vought (sco.baa@sco.mil)
Technical Point of Contact: John Stastny (sco.baa@sco.mil)