AFRL Directed Energy Industry Days — rolling out new rapid contracting vehicle
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFRL) – The Air Force Research Laboratory Directed Energy Directorate will host a Virtual Briefing for Industry to introduce the new Directed Energy Technology Experimentation Research (DETER), Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) April 13 – 14 from 10 a.m. to noon Mountain Standard Time each day.
“We are looking forward to hosting our first briefing for industry days,” said Marcella Cantu, DETER Program Manager. “DETER is an innovative acquisition tool that will offer industry and academia a new rapid and agile contracting vehicle to work with Directed Energy in nine topic areas. Day one is designed for industry and day two for academia.”
Cantu explained the event will support the directorate in its mission to equip the joint warfighter with next-generation technologies, advanced directed energy concepts and weapon system options across all operational domains as AFRL works to ensure the nation’s defense.
“Our goal is to provide these communities an overview of the DETER ARA structure and its unique acquisition authorities, said Lisa Pendragon, an AFRL contracting officer who is helping lead Industry Days. “Dr. Kelly Hammett, director of AFRL’s Directed Energy Directorate, will kick the event off with an informative look at the Directed Energy mission, and through breakout sessions, attendees will be able to communicate directly with experts to help determine if their projects fit into Directed Energy needs.”
“We invite any company or institution interested in engaging with AFRL in advancing Directed Energy for national security to join us as we roll out this exciting and game-changing, new contracting process,” Cantu said. “Contact us at afrl.deter.ara@us.af.mil for additional information.”
Visit the government Solicitation and Guide link for more information and registration:
Registration is due by April 7.
An Air Force Research Laboratory Directed Energy Directorate laser physicist analyzes the output beam from one of the directorate’s advanced laser sources. AFRL scientists investigate novel laser sources that are easily maintained, environmentally friendly, and capable of high power levels. Benefits of directed energy for the warfighter include speed of light delivery, long-range engagement, low collateral damage and deep magazine. (Courtesy photo)