Vincent Cooper

Commercial space technology and capabilities will play an increasingly important role in military exploitation of the space domain, reducing R&D burdens on government agencies and lowering overall costs to the agencies. https://ow.ly/HYSV50TvR8x

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📣 Potential for some good changes in Army procurement. [Industry Article] Young Bang Details Army Efforts to Modernize Acquisition Processes To take advantage of the capabilities industry has to offer, the Army is embracing more flexible acquisition methods and moving away from strict adherence to traditional approaches. The Army recently released a directive calling for the adoption of a hybrid model, which he said “encourages all different types of things, encourages creativity, but doesn’t want us to default to firm-fixed-price.” https://lnkd.in/e_HQDZy6 #GovCon #SmallBusiness #Accounting #GovernmentContracting #GovernmentContractor #FederalContracting #FederalGovernment #DoD #Army #Procurement #Acquisition

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https://lnkd.in/ea6PjS3Z There are a lot of great, strategic initiatives within the Pentagon by Dep Sec Hicks, UnderSec Shyu, and others to strengthen the DIB. However, Rep Wittman delivers an important critique that plans aren't effective without IMPLEMENTATION. Industry is investing our own capital to build capacity. Congress is generous in providing the necessary budget. DOD falls short because the acquisition centers lack enough experienced Contracting Officers to compete and award contracts under which companies can deliver. So we sit in the valley of death, with invested capital and professional staff sitting idle, waiting for the Systems Commands to go through their processes. I've talked with several government PMs and PEOs recently, and their common question is: "how do I get to you?" While the DOD works on on acquisition reform, companies can do themselves a service by being creative in finding contract vehicles and partners so our customers can get to us. OTAs, IDIQs, existing contract vehicles are all viable. Creative and ambitious business executives recognize that there are many levers at our disposal, so we can deliver our services, products and solutions to the warfighter. I'd be interested to hear what others are doing to be creative about delivering capabilities to our nation's warfighters.

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The USAF is actively seeking to fortify its defense against the rising threat of small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS). The recently issued RFI aims to gather insights from industry on the latest C-sUAS capabilities, focusing on integration, development, & sustainment services. As the USAF looks to modernize its System of Systems (SoS), there is an imperative to identify & collaborate with innovative vendors who can deliver cutting-edge solutions to enhance national security. 1. Sensor & Effector Integration: Develop & integrate advanced sensors & effectors that comply with the latest SOSA & MOSA standards. -Outcome: Enhance the detection, tracking, & neutralization of sUAS threats, ensuring comprehensive protection of critical assets. 2. AI/ML Implementation: Implement AI & Machine Learning (ML) technologies for object detection, Rules of Engagement (ROE) suggestions, & automation of the kill chain. -Outcome: Reduce operator workload & increase the efficiency & effectiveness of C-sUAS operations. 3. Cybersecurity Enhancements: Integrate persistent cyber patching & security measures into the development process of C-sUAS systems. -Outcome: Ensure that systems remain secure against evolving cyber threats, maintaining the integrity & reliability of defense operations. CRG’s Advice for Industry 1. Stay Ahead with Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA): Adopt MOSA for rapid integration of software modules, external links, & third-party services. -Outcome: Ensure flexibility & scalability of systems to adapt to emerging threats & technological advancements. 2. Continuous Development & Integration: Commit to continuous development with rapid incremental deliveries to meet evolving mission needs. -Outcome: Keep pace with the dynamic threat landscape & ensure systems are always mission-ready. 3. Focus on Compliance & Standards: Ensure all systems & components comply with SOSA & MOSA standards for seamless integration. -Outcome: Facilitate interoperability & streamlined operations across multiple platforms & systems. Differentiators for Leading in the C-sUAS Space -Tech Innovation: Staying at the forefront of C-sUAS technology through continuous research, development, & integration of the latest advancements. -Operational Excellence: Delivering systems that enhance situational awareness & decision-making capabilities, ensuring effective threat neutralization. -Cyber Resilience: Incorporating robust cybersecurity measures that protect systems from evolving digital threats, maintaining mission integrity. The USAF’s quest to modernize its C-sUAS capabilities presents a significant opportunity for industry to showcase their innovation & expertise. Connect with CRG today to leverage our expertise & secure your position. Visit http://crgroupinc.com or contact us at [email protected] for more information. #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryTechnology #CsUAS #USAirForce #ISR #Aerospace #Cybersecurity #AI #MachineLearning #SOSA #MOSA

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AFWERX AFVentures has issued a Notice of Opportunity (NOO) within the Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) program for both air and space projects. The window for government champion-led capability package submissions will open on July 25 and close September 18 at noon ET. "The STRATFI program underscores our commitment to transitioning dual-use commercial technologies into the hands of our Airmen and Guardians, ensuring that our military forces have access to the most advanced state-of-the-art capabilities that are emerging in our private sector,” said Col. Elliott Leigh, AFWERX director and chief commercialization officer for the United States Department of the Air Force. “This Strategic Funding Increase is not just an investment in hardware; it's an investment in our national security, safeguarding our values and interests for generations to come." STRATFI is open to small businesses with an awarded Phase II SBIR/STTR contract. The company must either have a current Phase II contract, with a minimum of 90 days of performance executed, or have completed a Phase II contract within two years of submitting a capability package. Read more here: https://ow.ly/ZGyz50SHFci . . . #AFWERX #AFVentures #STRATFI #noticeofopportunity #funding #opportunity #innovation

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US Space Force plans to award 20 contracts for commercial reserve by 2026 - Defense News "The Space Force expects to award as many as 20 contracts over the next two years for private companies to join its Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve, which will create a mechanism for the military to better leverage commercial capabilities both in peacetime and during a conflict....The Space Force’s acquisition arm, Space Systems Command, announced last year it was planning to create a commercial space reserve. The team met with industry in February 2023 and formed a task force soon after to work through legal, policy, contracting and programmatic concerns." Calian Advanced Technologies is a global supplier of space solutions including satellite communications, wired and terrestrial wireless solutions, test and measurement services, and GNSS technology for positioning, navigation and timing. Calian provides solutions for defence, commercial and civil customers to meet the needs of their space programs. To secure the flow of information Calian IT & Cyber Solutions provides consulting services, training and integration support for emissions security (EMSEC), in-place RF monitoring and RF spectrum analysis. For more information about our space solutions and services please visit us @ and @ #defence #defense #militarysatellites #jamming #SATCOM #satellites #electronicwarfare Note: Articles posted or shared on this Calian Defence Solutions site are for informational purposes only. Any views or opinions expressed herein are those of the articles’ authors and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Calian Group. https://hubs.li/Q02ZNz4z0

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Out Of This World “T3” Leadership! Rear Admiral Alan Shepherd, b. OTD 1923.  First American in space.  Named his spaceship “Freedom 7.”  First of more than 50 astronauts from the United States Naval Academy!  Walked on the moon with Apollo 14 in 1971.  His inspirational style: - TEAMWORK: Understood the value of shipmates and wingmen. One of America’s initial seven astronauts. Learned about “deck plate” leadership and followership as a surface warfare officer on a Destroyer in the Pacific during WWII. - TONE: Great sense of humor. “It's a very sobering feeling to be up in space and realize that one's safety factor was determined by the lowest bidder on a government contract.”  - TENACITY: “[Space travel] is basically Research and Development. You probably spend more time in planning and training and designing for things to go wrong, and how you cope with them, then you do for things to go right!” For more inspirational "T3" leadership stories, visit: https://lnkd.in/dt22TRS

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🌟 Meet our incredible members! This week, we’re shining the spotlight on Tom McDaniel from L3Harris Technologies. Tom discusses how DII has helped him and his organization. What is one way that you and your organization use DII? To me the most valuable part of DII is networking with other members offline using Member Connect and in-person during the annual Best Practices Forum (BPF) to share ideas and learn how others are implementing their respective ethics programs. Check out his full spotlight at www.dii.org #DIICommunity #ethicsandcompliance

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The good news coming out of NILE continues! We were thrilled to be back at Kirtland Air Force Base serving the NCO community there this month. Our commitment to developing strong leaders and building a culture of growth and resilience is unwavering, and it’s deeply rewarding to see these efforts resonate with those who participate in the NILE program. The feedback from this cohort has been incredibly encouraging, and we’re excited to share some of their thoughts with you: “This course is filled with a boatload of valuable information that can help almost anyone improve their leadership abilities.” “Essential for brand new NCOs. Gave me names and definitions for leadership goals that I have been thinking about - allowing me to have a path forward.” “Its focus on connectivity is important. We talk of esprit de corps, but take for granted how to achieve it. The building blocks can be found here if the NCOs are willing to take them and use them.” “It is necessary to take classes like this if we want to change the culture of our force.” “Highly recommend. If you complain about the culture and the environment around you etc., this will give you the tools to effect change at least at your level.” “In my 11 years of service, this has been the most beneficial piece of the Air Force I have ever received.” “Every member of the military, no matter what branch, needs to have a similar kind of training.” If you’d like to learn more about how NILE can empower your leaders and enhance your organizational culture, please reach out. #LeadershipDevelopment #MilitaryLeadership #OrganizationalCulture #NILE

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If you run mobility programs in the Defense sector, check out our customized industry report and blog by Morgan Snapp: https://ow.ly/f0Kb50TC8PW. 60% of Defense respondents told us that they check their policies every one to two years, compared to 45% of respondents from our full report: ow.ly/VecL50TC8PV.

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📢 Broad Agency Announcement (BAA): FY24/25 Naval Aviation North Stars Enterprise The Naval Aviation North Stars are strategic focus areas designed to orient enterprise-wide efforts to close key warfighting gaps. The North Stars provide an alignment framework to prioritize efforts across Programs of Record, advanced concept and technology demonstrations, and enabling acquisition, engineering, test, and sustainment activities. We invite our industry partners to join us in de-constructing these complex challenges, identifying gaps and defining unique solutions to deliver the capability the fleet needs at a cost our country can afford. Priority will be placed on potential solutions that achieve or enable the Naval Aviation North Stars, which are top warfighting capabilities. Stakeholders and organizational leaders align the North Stars to the Programs of Record (POR), advanced concepts and technologies and enabling acquisition, engineering, test and sustainment resources. The Naval Aviation North Stars include, but are not limited to: • Nuclear Command and Control Strategic Platform / Systems • Unmanned Carrier Aviation / Manned-Unmanned Teaming • Maritime Intelligence Surveillance, Reconnaissance (MISR) • Strike Fighter and Air Wing 4th / 5th Generation Aircraft Integration • Long Range Fires (LRF) • Counter Command, Control, Computers, Communication, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, & Targeting (C-C5ISRT) • Defend the Force / Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) • Force Mobility / Precision Approach and Landing Capability ➡️ Details here: https://lnkd.in/ew7GNeJU

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US Army Deploys Ultra Long-Endurance Unmanned Aircraft in Pacific Operations In recent developments, the U.S. Army’s 1st Multi-Domain Task Force has employed Kraus Hamdani Aerospace's K1000 Ultra Long-Endurance, solar-powered #unmanned #aircraft systems (#UAS) across the Pacific theater, including #strategic locations like the Philippines and Guam. The Pentagon has now expanded its commitment to these systems, reportedly placing a $20 million order to bolster the capabilities of the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force and support special #operations. The K1000 UAS, known for its extended flight endurance, is a pivotal addition to the U.S. Army's assets in the region, providing sustained surveillance and operational reach in remote and expansive areas. The full scope of this development and its implications for the Pacific theater are detailed in the original article from which this report is sourced. https://lnkd.in/g8YepMZ5

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Extra CCA Purchases to Give #USAF Test Unit A Boost Anduril and General Atomics are presently developing separate designs as part of the first increment, both of which are expected to fly for the first time next year. Helfrich highlighted how CCAs are expected to be transformational and that the questions that need to be answered go well beyond just what the #drones will do in a #combat context. https://lnkd.in/ePcy9S5j ⬇️ Our insights in the comments below ⬇️ #Uncrewed #Unmanned #DoD #military #CCAs4All

The Army’s urgent need to replenish stockpiles & maintain readiness presents opportunities for manufacturers to secure large, long-term contracts. With $6bn in backlog authorizations, companies that can quickly ramp up production are well-positioned to win. The Army's inclusion of non-traditional suppliers opens doors for innovative firms to diversify & strengthen the supply chain. CRG’s SME Opportunities, Advice & Differentiators for Clients: Opps: - High-Value Contracts for Agile Production: Rapid replenishment of military stockpiles presents an opportunity for firms to introduce innovative, agile production methods. Re-engineering manufacturing processes to reduce lead times & increase output while maintaining quality offers significant potential. - Advanced Predictive Maintenance: Companies integrating predictive maintenance tech into production lines can reduce downtime & increase throughput. The Army’s readiness demands solutions that ensure uninterrupted production cycles. Advice: - Dual-Use Manufacturing: Leverage dual-use tech like 3D printing for rapid prototyping & critical component production. This accelerates production & allows rapid iteration & customization based on field feedback. - Distributed Manufacturing Networks: Establish on-demand, distributed manufacturing networks with mobile units closer to operational needs. These units can reduce logistics costs & time, offering flexible, rapid production. - AI-Driven Supply Chain Optimization: Use advanced AI to predict & resolve supply chain bottlenecks in real-time. Implement blockchain for end-to-end transparency & security, ensuring compliance with Army standards. - R&D in Energy-Efficient Processes: Invest in scalable, energy-efficient manufacturing processes that reduce operational costs & expand capacity. Explore novel materials that balance ease of processing with military-grade reliability. - Reconfigurable Production Lines: Design easily reconfigurable production lines that can scale up/down & integrate new tech without full overhauls, maintaining operational continuity while enhancing capabilities. Differentiators: - CRG’s SMEs in advanced manufacturing & dual-use tech integration enable clients to meet Army demands efficiently, focusing on scalable solutions that reduce production times while ensuring high quality. - CRG's Strategic Client Network includes leaders in distributed & mobile manufacturing, offering a tactical advantage by reducing logistics costs & response times, crucial for defense operations. - CRG’s Innovative Supply Chain Management allows clients to excel in AI-driven supply solutions, providing real-time insights & predictive capabilities that maintain a steady flow of materials, ensuring compliance. Engage with CRG to unlock innovative manufacturing strategies & secure high-value defense contracts. Contact us at [email protected] to explore cutting-edge solutions. #CRG #Manufacturing #AI #Production #SupplyChains #Logistics #DoD

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In today’s rapidly evolving battlefield, managing and prioritizing multiple streams of information is essential. At OTTO, we are aligned with Association of the United States Army - AUSA and the US Army's vision of "Transforming for a Complex World" by delivering innovative solutions like the E.S.P. PTT (Enhanced Spatial Positioning Push-to-Talk). - E.S.P. PTT revolutionizes tactical communication by assigning each voice a distinct 3D location in the headset. Whether it’s ground forces, aircraft pilots, or partner teams, warfighters can instantly recognize and prioritize the source of critical information, leading to quicker, more accurate decision-making. - By eliminating the cognitive load of untangling overlapping audio streams, E.S.P. PTT empowers operators to manage up to four communication channels at once. This advanced capability gives a decisive edge on the battlefield, reducing errors and enhancing mission success. - Designed to integrate seamlessly with existing military comms platforms, OTTO’s E.S.P. PTT evolves alongside the needs of today’s warfighters. - Join us for a live demo today at #AUSA2024, booth 7827, and see how OTTO is supporting the US Army in transforming tactical communication for the modern battlefield.

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