- Contributors: Samantha Medeiros, Dr. Tracy Boyd, Carol Ann Logue, and Dr. Chris Libutti
What You Missed Last Month
Space Training and Readiness Command Space Delta 10 - January 16
Established on August 23, 2021, the Space Delta 10 (DEL 10), is a United States Space Force unit responsible for advancing space doctrine, wargaming, and lessons learned. Hosted at Patrick Space Force Base, the event highlighted Delta 10’s role in supporting the evolution of the Space Force, particularly as it pivots towards initiatives like Space Futures Command. It was fascinating to learn how the unit is leveraging wargaming and tabletop exercises to test new technologies, validate program requirements, and strengthen training and readiness for operations in the space domain. Their mission is to develop combat-ready Guardians through wargaming, doctrine, and lessons learned.
Colonel Shannon Dasilva and her team provided a detailed and informative overview of DEL 10 and its objectives. They explained that the Space Force is establishing a fourth institutional Field Command, which will be responsible for developing and validating operational concepts, advancing long-term competitiveness, and focusing on forward-looking force design processes. The command will also prioritize and streamline science and technology pipelines to better address Warfighter needs at the point of delivery and ensure sustained competitiveness over time.
The team further elaborated on the three primary centers within the Space Futures Command. The first, the Concepts and Technology Center is tasked with defining the future operating environment and exploring opportunities for innovative concepts that benefit both the Space Force and the Joint Force. The second is the Wargaming Center, which validates the strategies and concepts developed by the Concepts and Technology Center through modeling, simulation, exercises, and wargaming. Finally, the Space Warfighting Analysis Center conducts analysis, modeling, wargaming, and experimentation to support strategic planning and operational decision-making. Collectively, these efforts ensure the Space Force remains at the forefront of innovation and preparedness.
Table Top Exchange: Advanced Ground-Based Autonomous Equipment/Vehicles, Used for Wildfire Response in Hazardous Conditions - January 24
The primary objective of this project was to apply expertise in advanced technologies and innovation to assess and develop critical capabilities identified through a comprehensive technology scan and a subsequent prize challenge, which engaged approximately 130 participants. The Tabletop Exchange was conducted to assist SERDP in formulating a problem statement for the prize challenge, ensuring it accurately reflected the innovative approaches highlighted during the exchange.
With the help of industry personnel, they were able to enhance wildfire suppression efforts by rapidly evaluating and integrating advanced remotely operated equipment, ground-based autonomous vehicles, and other remote-controlled technologies (excluding aircraft) in high-risk and hazardous environments. By fostering strategic collaboration with industry leaders and academic institutions, the project accelerated the development and deployment of these technologies, ultimately working toward a fully operational fire line solution.
The complexity of wildfire response on and near military lands has significantly increased due to hazardous fuel conditions and the exacerbating effects of climate change. To address these challenges, remotely operated and autonomous firefighting equipment—developed through Department of Defense-funded research and private sector innovation—has proven effective in mitigating wildfire risks. However, ensuring rapid access to and evaluation of emerging technological advancements from private industry and academia remains critical to enhancing operational firefighting capabilities in these demanding and dynamic environments.
What's Coming Up Next at the Tech Grove
SERDP (Strategic Environmental Research Developmental Program) Prize Challenge Information Session- February 06
Wildland fire response on and around military lands faces growing challenges due to hazardous fuel conditions and the impacts of a warming climate. Effectively addressing these issues requires a combination of specialized expertise, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced ground robotics. Innovations in remotely operated and autonomous equipment, developed through Department of Defense funded research, academic research, and industry advancements, present significant opportunities to address these complex conditions.
This prize challenge seeks to harness breakthroughs from academia and/or industry to rapidly evaluate and deploy cutting-edge technologies, enhancing wildfire response capabilities, improving safety, and supporting critical firefighting operations in high-risk environments. Prize amounts for the challenge are as follows: First Place - $85,000, Second Place - $55,000, and Third Place - $30,000. The complete prize challenge details will soon be available on Challenge.gov.
This technology exchange aims to further explore industry inquiries raised during TSIS at I/ITSEC. PEO STRI will host a panel discussion led by Nick Kioutas, Program Manager for ETI, with support from other Program Managers. The discussion will provide industry stakeholders with feedback on programmatic and technical topics, focusing on four key areas: Other Transactional Authorities, including their advantages and disadvantages; Agile Methods, examining both their benefits and challenges; Technology, addressing existing gaps and offering insights; and Modular Open-Source Architecture, reviewing progress and identifying areas for improvement. Register Here
SBIR/STTR
Save time and resources by learning how to create effective SBIR proposals. Join us for free virtual webinars led by DOD SBIR/STTR experts.
Policies & Procedures for SBIR/STTR Awardees Webinar
Feb. 27, 2025 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
You’ve won your award. Now, your task is to manage the funds you’ve received to stay in compliance with government regulations and organize your business.
You’ll learn:
- How to set up and manage procurement policies, payroll, and employee leave
- What internal controls are necessary for success
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