7 Jun 02. Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Linthicum Heights, Md., is being awarded a $14m indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to provide for Sensor Technology Applications Development and Evaluation (STEADEE). The STEADEE program has the requirement to investigate and develop a wide range of
technologies to advance technical improvements that can be translated into operational capabilities for the warfighters.
To support this program, the contractor will employ an open architecture systems approach to Real Time In Cockpit/Real Time Out Cockpit (RTIC/RTOC) to investigate and analyze a number of technologies that translate into significant increases to mission effectiveness and survivability for operational forces.
The contractor shall investigate and analyze the technology thrust areas of Electro-Optics, Radio Frequency, and Automatic Target Recognition. The contractor shall also examine the cross cutting integrating thrust areas of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Electronic Warfare and Precisions Engagement. The contractor shall apply results of technology
advancements coming from these activities to meet STEADEE program requirements.
The objective of the contractor’s investigations under the STEADEE focus Area A will be to meet specific warfighter operational requirements as delivery order are turned on. Objectives include: the ability to provide near real-time high resolution imagery into the weapon system; timely updates of Signals Intelligence/Electronic Warfare threat data; multi-source data and imagery fusion, correlation and distribution RTIC/RTOC; rapid re-tasking and route planning of ISR and strike platforms; stand-off precision strike; and increased survivability of friendly sources. At this time, $750,000 of the funds has been obligated. Further funds will be obligated as individual delivery orders are issued. The Air Force can issue delivery orders totalling up to the maximum amount indicated above, though actual requirements may necessitate less than the above amount. This work will be completed by September 2009. Solicitation began July 2001; Negotiations were complete May 2002. The Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (F33615-02-D-1113).