The Hatch Report (Issue #20)
DoD Opportunities
1. Army SBIR DP2 for AI-Enabled Portfolio Management
Topic opens in June. Proposes an IT Acquisition Requirements Intake and Portfolio Management System. Goal is to streamline the Army’s acquisition process by evaluating software, hardware, and service requirements against qualification criteria and existing capabilities.
THR’s Take
Reminded of DIU’s Digital OnRamp Platform initiative. Using AI/ML and LLMs, the intent is to actively match commercial technologies with DoD needs while providing a secure, structured platform for government users to evaluate and engage with industry solutions. This effort is being managed by the TReX II consortium.
2. OSD A&S RFI for Defense Acquisition Visibility Environment (DAVE)
The Acquisition Policy & Innovation (API) Directorate seeks support in maintaining and enhancing the DAVE and Acquisition Information Repository (AIR).
DAVE Overview
API-first platform for managing authoritative acquisition data
Single access point for internal and external capabilities
Java back-end, Angular front-end
Integrated with multiple DoD systems via APIs
Enables data sharing, visualization, modification, and reporting
Transitioning from Initial Operating Capability (IOC) to Full Operating Capability (FOC)
AIR Overview
Stores required acquisition milestone documentation per DoDI 5000.02
Supports analysis and decision-making with unstructured data
Currently Confluence-based, transitioning to a Java/Angular application
Managed by a government office with API Directorate augmentation
Submission Deadline: 18 February
3. TRANSCOM Sources Sought for Commercial Global Delivery Directly from Space
Potential CRADA applicants can learn more at the 19 Feb virtual industry day.
Focus Areas
Vehicle and decelerator designs for rapid cargo deployment.
Business models for integrating commercial space logistics.
Mission profiles, including direct terrestrial delivery, on-orbit prepositioning, and hybrid approaches.
NOTE: Only system integrators should engage directly; subsystem developers should participate through existing partnerships.
Registration Deadline: 17 February.
4. CDAO Solicitation for Unstructured Data Search Enhanced by AI/ML (UD-SEAM)
Seeking industry partners to develop YETI, an AI-powered search tool that will enhance how the DoD searches, summarizes, and categorizes unstructured data. This tool must be easy to integrate into DoD systems, work across classified networks, and leverage AI/ML to optimize search accuracy.
CDAO’s Search Portfolio currently manages tools like GAMECHANGER (policy search), Contract Search, and JBook Search, but these have limitations in handling vast, fragmented data across multiple sources and security levels.
Submission Deadline: 19 February
THR’s Take
DoD should offer a public access version of this JBook Search!
5. DIA-MSIC Special Notice for an Industry Engagement Technical Exchange Meeting
Learn about MSIC's technical priorities, capability challenges, and upcoming MA-IDIQ contract opportunities. Slated for 26-27 February at Redstone Arsenal. SECRET//NOFORN. Maximum two visitors per company for the TEM. One-on-one discussions are open to companies intending to bid as Prime Contractors.
6. MDA Industry Day in Response to "The Iron Dome for America" Executive Order
Key Details:
Briefings will be at the Collateral SECRET level (max 5 attendees per company) at Redstone Arsenal.
Companies with CUI-level solutions must submit a one-page unclassified abstract by 10 February to request a one-on-one session.
One-on-One sessions to take place on 18 and 19 February.
7. DARPA Special Notice for Exponentiating Mathematics (expMath)
Goal: Build an AI assistant to help mathematicians discover and prove new ideas. This AI will automate parts of the mathematical process and work with mathematicians to speed up progress in the field.
Submission Deadline: 31 March
8. PEO C3T Draft Solicitation for Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2)
PEO C3T seeking feedback on the draft documentation associated with NGC2 requirements.
The NGC2 program aims to create a unified data layer for C2 across all echelons, from Corps to Platoon.
The initial prototype will prioritize reliable data ingest, curation, and visualization but must also be extensible. The focus will be on the Corps/Division level due to similar use cases.
Prototyping will occur in a secure digital environment, emphasizing data management and sharing for a common operating picture. The most challenging scenario is data access in disconnected, intermittent, and low-bandwidth tactical edge environments.
The Army seeks industry teams, each with a designated leader responsible for the RFP response and project execution. Awardees will propose GFE/GFI management, integration configuration control, and an improvement strategy.
Initial prototype use cases are limited to data integration and extensibility. The prototype must integrate and execute the following tasks:
Display enemy and friendly PLI on a standardized map.
Graphically portray tactical plans using ADRP 1-02 compliant tools.
Enable remote viewing of collaborative activities.
Provide cross-platform chat accessible from IL4 and IL6.
Execute fire missions, including target nomination, prioritization, firing unit/ammunition selection, and transmitting firing data over IL6.
Deliver a logistics COP for CLS III and V, including predictive resupply.
Integrate with unit-provided Line of Sight/Beyond Line of Sight transport.
Integrate with unit-provided devices like Nett Warrior and TAK.
Access and display AIDP information.
Deliver a sustainment COP for movement, maneuver, and distribution.
Integrate with the Tactical Data Platform.
Integrate with coalition C2 systems per MIP 4.
Integrate with tactical edge computing and access cloud services from the edge.
Integrate Protection tasks (Air/Missile Defense, CBRN, Force Health, Electromagnetic/Physical Protection, Personnel Recovery).
Integrate with T-ICAM for network defense.
Submission Deadline: 13 February
9. USSF Sources Sought for Resilient MEO Missile Warning and Tracking (RMMWT) Ground Management and Integration
The RMMWT program follows a phased procurement approach, with Epoch 1 launching in FY26 and FY28, and Epoch 2 awarding contracts in FY25 for launches starting in FY29. The government is identifying sources to support Epoch 2 and potentially transition Epoch 1 responsibilities.
Key Areas of Interest:
Enhance and maintain the MEO Satellite Operations Center (MSOC) at the Boulder Ground Innovation Facility (BGIF) to support Epoch 2.
Standardize Missile Warning and Tracking (MWT) software onto a common platform with integrated hardware.
Ensure continuous ATO and maintain network connectivity through collaboration with other contractors.
Support mission planning, tasking, and execution for the satellite constellation.
Maintain and expand GEP capabilities, including network scheduling and ground resource management.
Oversee and integrate multiple contractor contributions into a cohesive ground system.
Submission Deadline: 27 February
10. DARPA Special Notice for Reengineering Enabling Sleep Transitions in Operationally Restrictive Environments (RESTORE)
Seeks to enhance warfighters’ cognitive performance despite extreme sleep restrictions, including less than 3 hours in combat. The program will test non-invasive neuromodulation technologies and optimize sleep micro-architectures to increase sleep efficiency and accelerate brain recovery. By enabling precision control of sleep structures, RESTORE aims to help service members maintain peak cognitive function in high-stress, sleep-deprived environments.
11. TRADOC G-2 RFI for Operational Environment (OE) and Core Functions Support Services
Key support services include:
Support the development and maintenance of an OE knowledge center, integrating data, tools, and processes to facilitate Army training, doctrine development, and capability assessments.
Provide intelligence-related support, including assistance with Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Joint ISR integration, to inform operational planning and decision-making.
Assist in managing OE/Opposing Forces (OPFOR) modernization efforts to ensure realistic and validated threat representation at Army training centers.
Provide subject matter expertise and analytical support for TRADOC G-2 special projects and rapid acquisition initiatives as directed.
Support the execution of OE and threat assessments across TRADOC’s core functions, ensuring consistency and applicability to Army priorities.
Submission Deadline: Extended from 6 February to 25 February
12. DARPA Proposers Day – Securing AI for Battlefield Effective Robustness (SABER)
Overview: SABER aims to develop an AI red team with the tools, techniques, and expertise to assess AI-enabled battlefield systems. The program seeks to establish a sustainable AI red teaming model for the DoD, focusing on autonomous ground and aerial systems deployable within 1-3 years.
Location: Hybrid / Executive Conference Center, 4075 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22203
Registration Deadline: February 25
Event Date: March 12
13. Space Forces Operational Test and Training Infrastructure (OTTI) Integrated Program Office (IPO) RFI
Overview: The OTTI IPO seeks contractors capable of designing, developing, managing, integrating, and securing space test infrastructure. This includes facilities (test chambers, operation centers, etc.), network infrastructure (classified and unclassified), and IT infrastructure services (administration, cybersecurity, data protection).
Submission Deadline: 21 February
14. AFRL Solicitation for the Advanced Framework for Simulation, Integration, and Modeling (AFSIM) FORGE
AFSIM is a government-owned, open-source, and community-informed military simulation framework primarily used by the DoD acquisition, operations analysis, and research and engineering communities. It enables scenario development, analytical assessments, and virtual wargaming to refine weapon system concepts, operational tactics, and investment decisions.
Managed by AFRL/RQ at Wright-Patterson AFB, AFSIM is freely available to:
Industry partners via an information transfer agreement for internal R&D.
U.S. Government agencies through a memorandum of understanding.
FORGE seeks to expand AFSIM as an enterprise capability, fostering collaboration among users, developers, and maintainers to drive defense innovation.
Submission Deadline: 17 March
15. 3rd Infantry Division Sources Sought for Data Analytics Support
Scope: Sustain and modernize an existing Division COP through staff transitions, particularly from the original developers.
Deliverables: Management Plan, Quality Control Plan, and Monthly Status Report
Submission Deadline: 18 February
16. USAF Presolitiation for Implementation of Advanced Government Simulation Capabilities
The Air Force Sustainment Center (AFSC/SWX) plans to solicit software development and support services for the Implementation of Advanced Government Simulation Architectures (IAGSC). AFSC/SWX develops software and integrates modeling and simulation into DoD systems.
Submission Deadline: 25 February
17. Defense Science Board Sources Sought for Multi-Study Support Services
Overview: The Contractor will provide direct support for approximately six (6) Task Forces or Permanent Subcommittee studies annually, as directed by the government. Responsibilities include research, report writing, document preparation and publication, statistical analysis, meeting coordination, security administration, and correspondence (telephonic and email) to support DSB studies.
Period of Performance: One-year base period with four one-year option periods.
Submission Deadline: 5 March
Industry Activity
18. Applied Intuition Acquires EpiSci
EpiSci, founded in 2012, develops software for uncrewed aerial systems, maritime tracking, surface warfare, and battle management. Its acquisition expands Applied Intuition’s reach across land, air, sea, and space. Since its founding in 2017, Applied Intuition has focused on vehicle software and is currently valued at $6 billion. The company serves the automotive, trucking, construction, mining, agriculture, and defense industries.
19. CMI2 Wins $7.5M Army Contract to Improve Acquisition Through Middle-Tier Technology Reciprocity (MERIT)
Total cumulative face value of the contract = $47.8M and stems from DEVCOM ARL’s BAA, which can be accessed through their online portal - HERE.
20 USAF SSJ for Tilt Autonomy for Autonomous Rescue Surface Vessel
Contract Overview: AFLCMC/C3CK awarded Tilt Autonomy a FFPC to develop an autonomous surface vessel (ASV) for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR). The contract has a four-month PoP and follows simplified commercial acquisition procedures.
Context: This contract supports Project GongGong, part of the Blue Horizons program at the Air War College. Blue Horizons is a ten-month fellowship that develops prototype solutions for Air Force challenges. The program presents findings to senior Air Force and Space Force leaders. If an MVP solution is successful, Blue Horizons will transition to a partner for continued exploration and program execution.
Project GongGong focuses on autonomous personnel recovery in contested environments. The ASV will locate, support, and recover isolated personnel while reducing risks to human rescuers.
Scope of Work
Design, build, and deliver an ASV prototype.
Integrate sensors for tracking and navigation.
Provide government-owned software and technical documentation for future use.
Conduct operational testing in simulated environments.
21. Lieutenant General Ross Coffman (Ret.) to assist Skyryse in expanding U.S. military relationships
The former Deputy Commanding General of Army Futures Command has joined Skyryse as a strategic advisor. SkyOS, the operating system behind the Skyryse One, simplifies aircraft management and enhances pilot control in all conditions. Skyryse has secured over $300 million in funding from Fidelity, Monashee Investment Management, Positive Sum, ArrowMark Partners, Venrock, Eclipse Ventures, Cantos, Stanford University, and Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford.
22. True Anomaly Appoints Frank Calvelli, Pentagon's First-Ever Dedicated Service Acquisition Executive in Charge of Military Space Programs, to its Board of Directors
Founded in 2022 and based in Centennial, CO, with teams in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, CA, True Anomaly develops technology to support space security and stability for the U.S. and its allies.
23. GuRu Wireless Invited to Demonstrate Persistent ISR Drone Capabilities at Army Aviation Event
The company will showcase its wireless power transfer technology at the Army Aviation Unmanned Aircraft Systems & Launched Effects Industry Day at Fort Novosel, Alabama. The system keeps small drones airborne indefinitely by eliminating the need to land for battery changes or charging. Operating at 24GHz, it provides continuous power to drones in flight. CEO Narbeh Derhacobian highlighted the company’s progress in wireless energy transfer and its potential applications in defense and security.
24. State of Oklahoma Launches First Investment in Advanced Air Mobility Infrastructure
The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) has awarded Vigilant Aerospace a multi-year contract to deploy the state’s first airspace management and detect-and-avoid system for drones and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The system, funded by the Oklahoma Legislature’s PREP initiative, will be installed at the Oklahoma Air & Space Port in partnership with the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA). It integrates multiple mobile air traffic surveillance radars from DeTect, Inc. with FlightHorizon, a cloud-based platform that combines radar, aircraft transponders, drone telemetry, Remote ID beacons, and FAA data to enhance airspace monitoring and traffic management.
25. Karman Announces Launch of its Initial Public Offering
Karman, a company that designs and manufactures systems for missile defense and space programs, has begun its initial public offering (IPO) of 21,052,632 shares of common stock. The offering includes 8,421,053 shares from Karman and 12,631,579 shares from selling stockholders, with an option for underwriters to purchase an additional 3,157,894 shares. The expected share price ranges from $18 to $20. The company has applied to list its stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "KRMN". Citigroup and Evercore ISI are acting as book-running managers and representatives of the underwriters, with RBC Capital Markets and William Blair as joint bookrunners and Baird as co-manager.
26. The University of Florida selected for $49M IDIQ for a Research and Engineering Education Facility
This contract provides the academic core of a regional innovation, education, and workforce development competency, as well as provides for open and applied research capability complementing AFRL and Eglin Air Force Base missions. Work will be performed at Shalimar, Florida, and is expected to be completed by Feb. 7, 2030. No funds are being obligated at time of award.
27. MDA Space to Build Globalstar’s Next-Gen LEO Constellation in $1.1B Deal
Globalstar, a provider of satellite-based mobile voice and data services, has selected MDA Space as the prime contractor for its next-generation low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. MDA will produce over 50 software-defined digital satellites under its AURORA platform. The contract adds $750 million to MDA’s backlog in early fiscal 2025, on top of $350 million previously record
28. ICEYE and SATIM enter partnership on joint development for new, AI-powered SAR imagery analysis products
The collaboration will combine ICEYE’s high-resolution satellite imagery with SATIM’s AI-driven imagery analytics to enhance the detection and classification of vessels, aircraft, and land vehicles. After an initial pilot phase, the companies plan to launch new products in 2025. ICEYE operates the world’s largest SAR satellite constellation, while SATIM specializes in automatic target recognition using AI.
ICEYE owns and operates the world's largest SAR satellite constellation, providing customers unprecedented access to 25 cm high-resolution imagery of any location on Earth, regardless of the weather conditions or day/night conditions. ICEYE's satellites provide imagery with the industry's highest resolution and scene sizes up to 840 km2, and hourly revisit rates for points around the globe. ICEYE has launched 44 satellites for its own and its customers' use since 2018 and plans to launch more than 20 new satellites annually in 2025, 2026, and beyond.
29. RSC2 Secures $116M Contract to Enhance Army Aerial Intelligence
RSC2, alongside subcontractors Amentum, Focused Ingenuity, iNovex Information Systems, MDB Group, Spettro Consulting, Tactica Solutions, and Xander Government Solutions, will provide SETA support to Project Director Sensors-Aerial Intelligence (PD SAI). PD SAI delivers advanced aerial ISR systems to equip warfighters with actionable intelligence.
30. Vexcel Announces 2025 Aerial Imagery Collection Program for the U.S.
Vexcel will capture 5.1 million km² across the contiguous U.S., updating imagery for 93% of the population and 120 million households. It will collect 1.6 million km² at 7.5cm resolution and 3.5 million km² at 15cm resolution, covering metro, suburban, and rural areas. Major cities will be refreshed up to three times per year, providing high-resolution imagery for industries like insurance, government, transportation, telecom, utilities, and mapping. A fleet of fixed-wing aircraft equipped with UltraCam sensors will carry out the collection. Vexcel runs the largest aerial imagery program in the U.S., covering up to four times more area annually than competitors, with an archive dating back to 2012.
31. Pyka Unveils Pelican 2: The World's Largest Autonomous Crop Protection Aircraft
Pyka’s next-generation Pelican 2 is now available for purchase starting at $550,000 following FAA approval. With a 300-liter payload and the ability to cover 90 hectares per hour, it is the world’s largest and most efficient autonomous electric agricultural aircraft. In 2023, Pyka launched commercial operations with Dole in Honduras, improving efficiency in banana crop protection. In July 2024, Pyka secured a major agreement with SLC Agrícola, one of Brazil’s largest agricultural producers, for large-scale deployment. Shortly after, Pyka delivered its first FAA-approved Pelican to Heinen Brothers Agra Services, a leading North American aerial application provider.
32. BANF Intelligent Tire System Wins US Army's xTech Live Pitch Competition at CES 2025
BANF's advanced connected tire system leverages tire-mounted sensors equipped with 3-axis accelerometers and profilers to overcome the battery limitations of conventional Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS).
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