Missile Defense Agency - Advanced Capability Concepts

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has issued solicitation HQ0860-25-S-C001 for its Advanced Capability Concepts program, an ongoing opportunity open from May 9, 2025, to May 8, 2030. The agency seeks innovative concepts, scientific breakthroughs, and prototype demonstrations to enhance the robustness and effectiveness of all Missile Defense System elements. Key focus areas include kinetic and hypersonic defense, command and control battle management, integrated non-kinetic and electronic warfare, and disruptive technologies such as AI/ML, resilient networking, and advanced sensors. This is a two-step process where industry is invited to submit white papers on a rolling basis, which are then evaluated for potential negotiation and award. Submissions must follow strict formatting guidelines, including a 10-page limit for the combined executive summary and program description, and must include a Rough Order of Magnitude cost estimate and a program summary quad chart. Awards may be structured as either FAR-based procurement contracts or Other Transaction (OT) agreements, depending on the offeror's recommendation and eligibility. Evaluation is based on a trade-off process prioritizing technical achievement, research capabilities, and program management. Offerors must maintain active SAM.gov registration, disclose any organizational conflicts of interest, and comply with NIST SP 800-171 for safeguarding controlled unclassified information. Performance is centered in Huntsville, Alabama, though the agency emphasizes rapid development and compressed timelines for the transition of breakthroughs into acquisition programs.