The purpose of this notice is to delete the original REQUEST FOR INFORMATION - Next Generation Wireless Networking with the following revised version: REQUEST FOR INFORMATION - Alternative Paradigms in Wireless Networking DESCRIPTION The DoD has traditionally used a "hub-and-spoke" wireless communication paradigm to support tactical edge operations. This architectural paradigm, also known as a "star" topology, provides routing simplicity and centralized data processing for efficient data aggregation and network control. The infrastructure-laden topology, however, suffers from critical drawbacks including scalability and mobility limitations. In recent years, the DoD and commercial industry have invested significant funding into the research and development of a revolutionary, paradigm-shifting approach called Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) because of its potential performance advantages for tactical edge communications. MANET technology does not require the inflexible base stations and towers typically used as hubs in the traditional paradigm. The MANET paradigm allows for an open peer-to-peer architecture that supports dynamic network topologies that both self-organize and self-heal for significant increases in flexibility and fault tolerance, while drastically reducing cost. Initial MANET implementations are currently making their way into theatre for significantly enhanced tactical capability. The DoD is currently focusing much of its wireless networking research funding on advances in MANET technology to improve network reliability, security, and performance in high tempo mobile environments. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Strategic Technology Office (DARPA STO) is, however, now asking, "Are there unexplored paradigms that might be superior to MANETS"? DARPA STO requests information on paradigm-shifting wireless communication and networking architectural concepts that enable scalable, high-performance, robust communications under high tempo mobility, diverse environmental conditions, and stringent size, weight, and power constraints, while providing reliable end-to-end security. These new paradigms may include the use of commercial wireless technology and/or concepts in radio resource management and hybrid architectural implementations. Concepts that are primarily minor augmentations or incremental modifications to the current MANET paradigm are not desired. INSTRUCTIONS TO RESPONDERS This announcement is a request for white papers in support of developing innovative and creative mission-centric approaches that have potential for revolutionary improvements in communication capability at the tactical edge. The white paper responses are encouraged to include, but are not limited to, the technical approach, military utility, programmatic information, and expected network performance gains. This RFI is open to any capable and qualified sources, including but not limited to universities, university affiliated research centers, federally-funded research centers, private or public companies, and Government research laboratories. White papers have the following formatting requirements: a) A one page cover that identifies the title, organization, responder's technical and administrative points of contact - including names, addresses, phone and fax numbers, and email addresses; b) An executive summary with a two page limit; c) A technical approach and programmatic section with an eight-page limit; d) A minimum of 10 pt font. The total page count should be no longer than 10 pages (excluding the cover page). Budget estimates are not required for this white paper. White papers should be marked with appropriate proprietary markings, such as "Proprietary". Markings such as "Confidential" or other phrases that could be confused with national security classifications should be avoided. This RFI will remain open from date of publication through 12 February 2007. NOTE: University (prime) RFI submissions may be made via the Grants.gov web site, http://www.grants.gov by using the "Apply for Grants" function. Dual submissions are not required. This announcement will also be posted on www.fbo.gov. The Government anticipates that responses to this RFI will be unclassified. Responses should be submitted in a commonly used electronic format (i.e., PDF or MS Word) via email to
[email protected] or DARPA/STO, 3701 North Fairfax Drive, Arlington VA 22203-1714, Attn: Dr. Reggie Brothers. Responses to this Request for Information (RFI) are due no later than 4:00pm, Local Time, Arlington, VA, on 12 February 2007. ANY INQUIRIES ON THIS REQUEST FOR INFORMATION MUST BE SUBMITTED TO
[email protected]. NO TELEPHONIC INQUIRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED. ALSO WE WILL NOT ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF ANY RFIs THAT ARE SUBMITTED TO THE ABOVE LISTED MAILBOX. DISCLAIMER This is an RFI issued solely for information and new program planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation. All information received in response to this RFI that is marked Proprietary Information will be handled and protected accordingly. Respondents are advised that DARPA is under no obligation to acknowledge receipt of the information received, or provide feedback to respondents with respect to any information submitted under this Request for Information (RFI). In accordance with FAR 15.201(e), responses to this notice are not offers and cannot be accepted by the Government to form a binding contract. Responders are solely responsible for all expenses associated with responding to this RFI. Submittals will be reviewed by the Government (DARPA) and Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) contractors such as: Ivysys Technologies, Solers, and Schafer Corporation. The SETA contractors will be bound by non-disclosure agreements to protect any proprietary information submitted under this RFI.