--Collaborative Technology Alliance on Advance Microsystems Initiative

The US Army is currently involved in preliminary discussions on a new Collaborative Technology Alliance on Advanced Microsystems. The Army envisions this alliance will bring together government, industrial, and academic institutions to address some of the fundamental scientific and technological underpinnings to enable the deployment of microsystems, such as micro air vehicles, micro ground vehicles, and unattended ground sensors, on the battlefield. Fundamental research is sought in microsystems integration, integrated processing, microbionic aeromechanics and ambulation, miniature powe r and energy generation, and microelectronics. As part of this collaborative alliance, the Army intends to reach out to and engage with non- traditional government contractors. Contingent upon available funding, the Army expects to support the alliance for five years with an option for an additional five years at greater than $10M per year. The US Army expects to hold an open workshop in earl y calendar year 2006 to explore scientific opportunities in microsystems. The Army further expects to invite interested consortia of industry and academia to submit proposals in connection with the program around the second quarter of calendar year 2006. This announcement makes interested organizations aware of this upcoming initiative.