Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) has been selected as the first major command for a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Specific Topic under AFWERX. This designation allows military end-users to define specific problems that require attention, and commercial companies can propose solutions. AFWERX has allocated up to $18 million for AFGSC across four solicitations, with the potential for an additional $7 million if two pending applications are selected. This allows AFGSC to work directly with potential vendors to modernize legacy systems and integrate new capabilities.
Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere, the commander of AFGSC, has emphasized the need to improve present weapons systems while also building the next generation of bombers and ICBMs. To help meet these modernization objectives, AFGSC created the A5N Division, which scouts solutions from small commercial businesses. The division, along with organizations such as Building Our Region’s Future and the Small Business Consulting Corporation, has honed in on the Specific Topics opportunities to increase their reach. By leveraging the Specific Topic process, AFGSC can talk to companies doing research and development, find funding through AFWERX SBIR grants, and shape product attributes to meet their needs.
The first four AFGSC solicitations focus on B-52 pylon modification, advanced battery development and integration for airborne platforms, electromagnetic pulse hardening, and readiness spares package deployment improvements. By utilizing the SBIR program and working with small businesses, AFGSC can address critical areas of innovation in a shorter timeframe compared to the traditional procurement process. This allows for faster development and integration of new capabilities that meet the command’s priorities.
The CCIT division, also known as the Commercial Capabilities Integration Transition Division, is responsible for recruiting cutting-edge companies through annual showcase events and continual tech scouting. Over the past 30 months, CCIT has brought 45 new technologies and over $100 million in contracts to AFGSC, with 10 companies already moving towards transition. This process not only improves outreach and visibility of AFGSC’s needs but also allows them to take advantage of the American commercial technology market.
Overall, AFGSC’s selection for the SBIR program’s Specific Topic designation allows them to work directly with small businesses to modernize legacy systems and integrate innovative capabilities. This approach streamlines the procurement process and enables faster development and integration of solutions to meet the command’s priorities.
