The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has issued its FY24 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Basic and Applied Scientific Research, identified as N00173-24-S-BA01. This funding opportunity seeks innovative science and technology proposals that align with NRL's mission to conduct basic and applied research across diverse scientific and technical disciplines, with an emphasis on maritime, atmospheric, and space applications. Research topics range from materials science, radar technologies, and optical sciences to space systems and remote sensing technologies. The BAA encourages groundbreaking scientific contributions that advance the state of knowledge and offer potential improvements to Navy and Marine Corps operations.

The BAA invites white papers for long-term science and technology projects that address areas including, but not limited to, high-frequency radar systems, optical remote sensing, computational electromagnetics, and advanced space systems. Submissions are reviewed competitively, with an emphasis on scientific merit, technical innovation, and alignment with NRL’s research priorities. Specific program descriptions are detailed within the announcement and categorized under NRL's directorates such as Systems, Materials Science, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences, and the Naval Center for Space Technology.

Eligibility for this funding opportunity includes educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, for-profit businesses, and other eligible entities, both domestic and foreign. While cost-sharing is not mandatory, proposals must demonstrate technical feasibility, scientific merit, and potential impact. White papers serve as an initial step in the application process, and formal proposals are submitted by invitation only. All white papers must be unclassified and follow the specified submission guidelines.

Proposals under the BAA must align with NRL’s strategic focus areas. For instance, in optical sciences, research priorities include laser countermeasures, advanced optical materials, and fiber optic sensor technologies. In radar systems, focus areas include signal processing, high-frequency electromagnetic wave propagation, and clutter mitigation techniques. Space research topics emphasize satellite technologies, optical communication systems, and spacecraft robotics.

Applications are reviewed based on criteria such as the importance of the research, technical rigor, feasibility, and the expertise of the proposing team. The evaluation process includes initial white paper reviews, followed by invitation-only proposal submissions. Selected proposals will receive funding based on scientific and technical merit, availability of funds, and alignment with NRL's strategic priorities.

The BAA is open for approximately one year from its release date or until replaced by a successor announcement. Late submissions may not be reviewed, and applicants are encouraged to submit their white papers well in advance of the closing date. Interested parties can access further details, including program codes and technical points of contact, through the NRL's official website.