FY27 Communications and Networking Applied Research Announcement for Office of Naval Research
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has issued Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Call N0001426SBC11 for FY27 Communications and Networking Applied Research. This opportunity seeks to develop and mature technologies that enhance end-to-end connectivity and quality-of-service for mission-critical information exchange among dispersed naval, joint, and coalition forces, supporting the Navy's Information Warfare vision. White papers are strongly encouraged and due by July 31, 2026, with full proposals due November 16, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
The goal of ONR's Communications and Networking Program (ONR 311) is to achieve measurable advances in technology directly enabling and enhancing robust communications and networking for all warfighters. The program is interested in applied research projects (Budget category 6.2) focusing on:
- Development of long-range VHF-band data links using compact 4x4 Multiple-Input, Multiple-Output (MIMO) based on 5G/Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) and sub-MHz frequency channelization.
- Novel design and prototyping of compact electronically-steered apertures for higher frequencies (i.e., above Ka-band).
- Innovative approaches and technologies for low probability-of-detection communications against advanced electronic threats.
- Advanced techniques for distributed network control, synchronization, and/or scheduling.
- New algorithms for predicting network behavior/performance or translating emerging operational requirements into traffic engineering policies. ONR is also receptive to innovative ideas outside these specific focus areas that are important to Navy/Marine Corps communications and networking.
Contract Details
This is a Solicitation under a Broad Agency Announcement. ONR anticipates funding five (5) to six (6) individual awards, with values typically ranging from $250,000 to $500,000 per year. Proposals for lower or higher costs will be considered. The period of performance for projects may be one, two, or three years. Awards are anticipated by April 15, 2027.
Submission & Evaluation
- White Papers: Strongly encouraged but not required, due by July 31, 2026. They should not exceed 5 pages (excluding cover, references, and resume) and must include Technical Concept, Future Naval Relevance, Operational Naval Concept, Operational Utility Assessment Plan, Goals and Benchmarks, Gold Standard Science description, and a ROM cost estimate. White papers will be evaluated for their value to the Navy, with feedback provided via email.
- Full Proposals: Due by November 16, 2026. Offerors whose white papers are deemed of particular value are encouraged to submit, but any offeror may submit a full proposal. Full proposals will be evaluated based on technical and cost volumes.
Eligibility & Set-Aside
This opportunity is for open competition. Other-than small businesses must submit a subcontracting plan, and ONR will facilitate connections between prime contractors and interested small businesses.
Points of Contact
- Primary: Stephen Hughes (stephen.t.hughes.civ@us.navy.mil)
- Secondary: Dr. Sunoy Banerjee (sunoy.n.banerjee.civ@us.navy.mil)