Real-Time Assessment and Augmentation of Cognitive Performance in Extreme Environments

The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory, established a single-award Cooperative Agreement titled Real-Time Assessment and Augmentation of Cognitive Performance in Extreme Environments under solicitation FA8650-22-S-5006. This initiative focuses on the research and development of wearable, durable, and flexible human-monitoring systems designed to enhance warfighter performance, protection, and survivability in austere environments. The primary technical objective is to develop bio-sensors and augmentation technologies, such as nerve stimulation, to monitor and counter the effects of fatigue and stress, aiming to reach a technology readiness level of 5. Additionally, the program seeks to establish a domestic production base for these worn sensor technologies. The total program value is 46 million dollars, structured as a 50/50 cost-share agreement where the government provides 23 million dollars and the recipient contributes a matching 23 million dollars. The period of performance is estimated at 63 months, with performance taking place in Pensacola, Florida. Managed by the AFRL Wright Research Site, the agreement adheres to administrative and financial guidelines under 10 U.S.C 2358 and 2 CFR part 200, covering critical areas such as intellectual property rights, program management, and reporting obligations.