The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has issued a Special Program Announcement for 2024 under the identifier N0001424SBC09, focusing on research in Air Warfare and Weapons within the naval domain. This announcement aims to engage current and potential collaborators from government, academia, and industry on research priorities and development in Code 35 Research Areas. It is an opportunity for these entities to learn about ONR's near- and long-term objectives, connect with ONR program officers, and explore partnerships that align with the Navy and Marine Corps' science and technology goals. The event includes discussions on potential technology approaches and feedback from stakeholders, fostering connections to enhance technical capabilities and leverage the strengths of diverse participants. Further details, including ONR's broad research scope, are available through the FY24 Long Range Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) on the ONR website.

ONR's Focus Area Forum is scheduled for July 11, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia. This full-day event will be conducted at an unclassified level and is free of charge, though registration is required by July 8, 2024. The agenda includes presentations on Code 35's research areas by senior Navy personnel, breakout sessions on specific challenges in autonomy, materials, propulsion, and weapons, and opportunities for one-on-one discussions with functional and area leads. The forum aims to provide a collaborative environment for participants to engage directly with ONR's senior leadership and explore in-depth technical topics and potential research pathways.

Those interested in pursuing research funding are encouraged to submit a five-page white paper by June 21, 2024. White papers should describe the technical innovation, future relevance to Navy operations, and an operational utility assessment, alongside a rough cost estimate. A one-page resume of the principal investigator should also be included. White papers should be submitted through Fedconnect, and a courtesy copy may be sent to ONR’s executive administration team. Proposals deemed valuable by ONR will receive feedback by July 5, 2024, which may include encouragement to submit a full proposal. Full proposals, due by January 31, 2025, will undergo an evaluation for potential funding, with final award decisions expected by March 31, 2025.

In terms of eligibility, this announcement is open to entities in government, academia, research centers, and industry. Specific emphasis is placed on forming partnerships that combine complementary capabilities, and large businesses and non-profits are expected to include small business subcontracting plans with their submissions. ONR will assist in identifying small businesses suitable for these partnerships, though this does not constitute an endorsement. Small businesses interested in subcontracting can submit their contact and technical information to ONR’s Small Business Director for potential matching with prime contractors.

Evaluation criteria include the alignment of proposed technologies with naval priorities, technical innovation, and the potential operational impact. The program officers will prioritize projects that demonstrate clear applicability to the Navy's needs and align with available budgetary resources. White papers offering relevant advancements may be recommended for full proposals, with ONR potentially requesting adjustments in scope or focus to better meet operational needs within the funding limits.

Significant deadlines include the white paper submission deadline on June 21, 2024, the Focus Area Forum event on July 11, 2024, and the full proposal deadline on January 31, 2025. Questions regarding the announcement can be directed to the contracting officer, James Farnsworth, with responses provided via official channels on sam.gov and Grants.gov.