The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is excited to announce the release of the Area 2025 Call for Proposals (CFP). This CFP seeks innovative research proposals that will help the Air Force address its future challenges and opportunities. The Area 2025 CFP is a competitive process, and only the most promising proposals will be funded. AFRL is committed to supporting research that will lead to the development of new and innovative technologies that will benefit the Air Force and the nation.
The Area 2025 CFP is focused on six key research areas: autonomy, cyber, directed energy, hypersonics, space, and networking. These research areas are critical to the Air Force’s future, and AFRL is seeking proposals that will advance the state-of-the-art in these areas. AFRL is particularly interested in proposals that demonstrate a clear path to transition from research to development and ultimately to operational use.
In addition to the six key research areas, the Area 2025 CFP also includes a number of specific research topics. These topics are listed in the CFP document, and AFRL encourages potential proposers to review the document carefully before submitting a proposal. AFRL is also willing to discuss potential research topics with interested proposers. To schedule a discussion, please contact the Area 2025 Program Manager at AFRL.Area2025@us.af.mil.
Embracing the Future of Aerospace with AREA 2025
A New Era of Aerospace Innovation
AREA 2025 is a bold initiative designed to propel the aerospace industry into the future. With a strong focus on collaboration and open innovation, AREA 2025 aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem where industry leaders, academia, and government agencies work together to address the challenges and opportunities facing the aerospace sector. The initiative encompasses a wide range of areas, including:
- Advanced air mobility
- Digital transformation
- Sustainability and environmental protection
Driving Technological Advancements and Economic Growth
AREA 2025 is a catalyst for technological advancements and economic growth in the aerospace industry. The initiative supports the development of new technologies, processes, and materials that will revolutionize the way we design, manufacture, and operate aircraft. By investing in research and innovation, AREA 2025 aims to:
- Reduce the environmental impact of aviation
- Increase the safety and efficiency of air travel
- Create new jobs and stimulate economic growth
Call for Proposals
AREA 2025 is now accepting proposals for projects that align with its strategic goals. The initiative is particularly interested in proposals that focus on the following areas:
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced Air Mobility | Projects that explore new technologies and concepts for urban air mobility, such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft |
| Digital Transformation | Projects that leverage digital technologies to improve the efficiency and safety of aircraft design, manufacturing, and operations |
| Sustainability and Environmental Protection | Projects that develop innovative solutions to reduce the environmental impact of aviation, such as sustainable aviation fuels and advanced propulsion systems |
Organizations and individuals interested in submitting a proposal should visit the AREA 2025 website for more information.
Partners in Innovation
AREA 2025 is a collaborative effort that brings together a wide range of partners from industry, academia, and government. These partners include:
- Airbus
- Boeing
- The European Commission
- The French Aerospace Industry Association (GIFAS)
- The German Aerospace Center (DLR)
- The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)
- The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Together, these partners are working to create a more sustainable, efficient, and innovative aerospace sector for the future.
2. Streamline Operations and Enhance Efficiency
The aviation industry seeks proposals for innovative technologies and solutions that can optimize operations and increase efficiency. These include:
a. Automated and Intelligent Systems
Proposals are encouraged for autonomous systems, machine learning algorithms, and predictive analytics to streamline tasks such as aircraft maintenance, flight scheduling, and passenger processing. By automating repetitive and complex processes, airlines and airports can reduce operating costs, improve safety, and enhance customer experiences.
b. Lean and Agile Processes
Proposals that explore lean manufacturing principles, agile methodologies, and digital transformation are welcome. Optimizing workflows, reducing waste, and adopting innovative tools can help streamline operations, shorten lead times, and improve productivity.
c. Data-Driven Decision-Making
Proposals for data management platforms, analytics dashboards, and decision support systems are in high demand. By leveraging data, airlines and airports can gain insights into operational performance, identify areas for improvement, and make data-informed decisions to enhance efficiency and profitability.
| Type of Technology/Solution | Examples |
|---|---|
| Automated Maintenance Systems | Robotic inspection, predictive maintenance algorithms |
| Intelligent Flight Scheduling | Machine learning-based algorithms for optimizing flight plans |
| Digital Passenger Screening | Biometric identification, automated baggage handling |
Advancing Technologies for Sustainable Aviation
Aera 2025’s call for proposals aims to advance technologies that contribute to a more sustainable aviation industry. These technologies will reduce the environmental impact of air travel, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance operational efficiency.
1. Electric and Hybrid Aircraft Technologies
The electrification of aviation is seen as a crucial step towards achieving sustainable air travel. Aera 2025 seeks proposals for the development of electric and hybrid aircraft, including advanced battery technologies, charging infrastructure, and propulsion systems. These technologies have the potential to reduce carbon emissions significantly, particularly for short-haul flights.
2. Sustainable Aviation Fuels
Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) are cleaner alternatives to conventional jet fuel. They are derived from renewable sources, such as algae or plant oils, and have significantly lower lifecycle carbon emissions. Aera 2025 encourages proposals for the production, distribution, and certification of SAFs, as well as the development of aircraft modifications to accommodate them.
3. Advanced Air Traffic Management Systems
Air traffic management (ATM) systems play a vital role in optimizing airspace utilization and reducing emissions. Aera 2025 seeks proposals for innovative ATM technologies and procedures that enhance airspace capacity, improve arrival and departure sequencing, and reduce flight delays and congestion.
| ATM Technologies | Benefits |
|---|---|
| 4D Trajectory-Based Operations | Improved airspace utilization and predictability |
| Data-Driven Traffic Management | Real-time optimization of air traffic and emissions reductions |
| Automated Air Traffic Management | Enhanced safety, efficiency, and capacity |
Exploring the Frontiers of Space Exploration
Unveiling the Secrets of Mars
AERA 2025 seeks proposals to advance our understanding of the Red Planet. Missions targeting the search for life, the study of ancient water bodies, and the investigation of Mars’ atmospheric composition are encouraged.
Venturing Beyond the Solar System
Proposals exploring the icy moons of Jupiter and Saturn are highly sought after. AERA 2025 aims to expand our knowledge of these celestial bodies, their potential for habitability, and their role in the formation of our solar system.
Unlocking the Mysteries of Spacetime
Missions investigating the nature of dark matter, dark energy, and cosmic inflation are vital. AERA 2025 supports proposals aimed at comprehending the fundamental properties of the universe and its evolution.
Advancing Human Exploration and Capabilities
AERA 2025 recognizes the importance of human presence in space. Proposals focusing on developing advanced life support systems, enabling sustainable lunar exploration, and expanding human capabilities in orbit are particularly encouraged. The following table outlines key areas of interest:
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Lunar-based Science and Exploration | Establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon for scientific research and resource utilization. |
| Orbital Habitats and Infrastructure | Develop modular and expandable habitats in low Earth orbit to support long-duration missions and microgravity research. |
| Human Performance and Physiology | Investigate the effects of spaceflight on the human body and develop technologies to mitigate physiological challenges. |
Empowering Tomorrow’s Aerospace Workforce
Aera 2025 is committed to fostering the future workforce of the aerospace industry. Through initiatives and collaborations, we aim to inspire and develop the next generation of engineers, scientists, and skilled professionals who will drive innovation and advancement in the sector.
School Outreach and STEM Education
We engage with schools and institutions to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, sparking interest and curiosity in students from a young age. We support programs that provide hands-on experiences, mentorship opportunities, and resources to foster a passion for aerospace careers.
Internships and Apprenticeships
Aera 2025 offers internship and apprenticeship programs that provide practical training and exposure to the industry. These programs connect students and young professionals with leading aerospace companies, where they gain valuable experience and develop skills essential for future success.
Diversity and Inclusion
We actively promote diversity and inclusion in the aerospace workforce, believing that a diverse and inclusive workforce drives innovation and creates a more equitable and accessible industry. We support programs and initiatives that encourage participation from underrepresented groups, creating opportunities for all to contribute to the sector.
Professional Development and Training
Aera 2025 recognizes the importance of ongoing professional development and training for the aerospace workforce. We collaborate with industry partners and educational institutions to offer training programs that enhance skills, expand knowledge, and prepare professionals for the evolving demands of the industry.
Industry-Academia Partnerships
We foster strong partnerships between industry and academia, bridging the gap between research and practical applications. These partnerships support research and development initiatives, advance cutting-edge technologies, and create a talent pipeline that ensures a skilled and knowledgeable aerospace workforce for the future.
Driving Innovation in Aircraft Design and Manufacturing
Enhanced Propulsion Systems
Explore novel propulsion technologies to improve efficiency, reduce emissions, and unlock new capabilities for aircraft. This may include advancements in hybrid-electric propulsion, sustainable fuels, or advanced material composites.
Structural Optimization
Optimize aircraft structures through advanced design methodologies, novel materials, and manufacturing techniques. Focus on lightweight materials, advanced composites, and innovative construction methods to reduce structural weight and enhance performance.
Advanced Flight Control
Develop and demonstrate advanced flight control systems to enhance stability, maneuverability, and safety. This could include autonomous navigation, trajectory optimization, or innovative control architectures.
Human-Machine Interfaces
Enhance human-machine interactions in aircraft cockpits to improve situational awareness, reduce pilot workload, and enhance safety.
Additive Manufacturing
Utilize additive manufacturing techniques to design and create innovative aircraft components that are lightweight, complex in shape, and optimized for performance.
Digital Twins
Develop digital twins of aircraft and processes to enable predictive maintenance, real-time monitoring, and analysis of aircraft performance data. This can optimize operations, reduce maintenance costs, and improve safety.
Streamlining Communication and Data Exchange
The AERA 2025 call for proposals emphasizes the need for enhancing communication and data exchange within the aviation ecosystem. By leveraging standardized data formats, real-time information sharing, and modern security measures, the industry can improve situational awareness and reduce safety risks.
Enhancing Situational Awareness for Air Traffic Controllers
The proposal aims to provide air traffic controllers with advanced tools and technologies to improve situational awareness. This includes integrating multiple data sources, providing real-time weather updates, and utilizing artificial intelligence to predict and mitigate potential hazards.
Automating Routine ATC Functions
To increase efficiency and reduce workload, the call for proposals encourages automation of routine ATC functions, such as aircraft trajectory prediction, conflict resolution, and communication with pilots. This can free up controllers to focus on more complex tasks.
Improving Safety through Data Analytics
By leveraging data analytics, the industry can identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement related to safety. This data-driven approach allows proactive measures to be taken, enhancing overall aviation safety.
Advancing Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Integration
The proposal recognizes the growing importance of UAS integration. It seeks innovative solutions to address challenges, such as airspace management, collision avoidance, and communication between UAS and manned aircraft.
Promoting Sustainability in ATM
The AERA 2025 call for proposals emphasizes the need to promote sustainability in air traffic management. This includes optimizing flight paths for fuel efficiency, reducing noise pollution through route design, and minimizing environmental impact.
Enabling Enhanced Pilot Interfaces
To enhance situational awareness and improve communication with ATC, the proposal emphasizes the development of intuitive pilot interfaces in the cockpit. These interfaces should provide pilots with relevant information, enhance collaboration, and reduce workload.
| Area of Focus | Description |
| Streamlining Communication and Data Exchange | Enhancing communication and data exchange within the aviation ecosystem |
| Enhancing Situational Awareness for Air Traffic Controllers | Providing air traffic controllers with advanced tools and technologies to improve situational awareness |
| Automating Routine ATC Functions | Increasing efficiency and reducing workload by automating routine ATC functions |
Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Aerospace Applications
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Develop AI algorithms for autonomous mission planning, flight control, and air traffic management, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Advanced Materials and Structures
Design lightweight, high-strength materials and composite structures to improve aircraft performance and reduce fuel consumption.
Electric Propulsion and Hybrid Systems
Research electric propulsion technologies, including hybrid systems, to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Additive Manufacturing
Explore additive manufacturing techniques for rapid prototyping, lightweight components, and complex geometrie.
Hypersonics
Develop hypersonic vehicles and systems for high-speed, long-range travel, enabling access to remote regions and advanced applications.
Advanced Aerodynamics
Study advanced aerodynamic concepts, including laminar flow control and boundary layer manipulation, to reduce drag and improve aircraft efficiency.
Cybersecurity in Aerospace
Enhance cybersecurity measures for aerospace systems, protecting against cyber threats and ensuring the safety and integrity of operations.
Space Exploration Technologies
Develop technologies for space exploration, including spacecraft design, robotics, and propulsion systems, to advance our understanding of the cosmos and enable future missions.
Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
The Aera 2025 Call for Proposals emphasizes fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. Submitted proposals should aim to:
Collaborative Research
Encourage partnerships between researchers from different disciplines and institutions to address complex educational challenges.
Knowledge Exchange
Facilitate the sharing of research findings and best practices through conferences, workshops, publications, and online platforms.
Teacher-Researcher Partnerships
Support the development of partnerships between teachers and researchers to improve teaching practices and inform policy decisions.
Community Engagement
Involve community members in research and decision-making processes to ensure that educational research is responsive to real-world needs.
Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Promote research that draws on multiple disciplines to provide a comprehensive understanding of educational issues.
Diverse Voices
Ensure that research proposals reflect a diversity of perspectives, including those of underrepresented groups.
Open Access and Data Sharing
Encourage the publication of research findings in open-access journals and the sharing of research data to foster transparency and reproducibility.
Capacity-Building for Emerging Researchers
Provide opportunities for early-career researchers to develop their research skills and contribute to the field of education.
| Aera 2025 Call for Proposals |
|---|
| Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing |
Shaping the Roadmap for Aerospace Industry 4.0
1. Vision and Mission
Aera 2025, an industry-led initiative, unveils a roadmap towards the digital transformation of the aerospace sector, embracing Industry 4.0 principles.
2. Key Drivers
Globalization, technological advancements, and customer expectations are propelling the shift towards connected, automated, and data-driven aerospace operations.
3. Scope and Focus
The roadmap encompasses the entire aerospace value chain, from design and manufacturing to maintenance and operations, leveraging emerging technologies.
4. Smart Factory Concepts
Digital twins, cloud platforms, and advanced robotics will optimize production processes, enhance quality, and increase efficiency.
5. Advanced Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
Data analytics and AI will empower predictive maintenance, defect detection, and automated decision-making, improving safety and reducing costs.
6. Digital Collaboration and Communication
Virtual collaboration tools and secure data sharing will foster innovation and streamline communication across the supply chain.
7. Augmented and Virtual Reality
AR and VR technologies will provide immersive experiences for training, design reviews, and maintenance support, enhancing productivity and safety.
8. Cybersecurity and Data Protection
Robust cybersecurity measures will safeguard sensitive data and ensure the integrity of aerospace systems, protecting intellectual property and customer trust.
9. Workforce Development
A highly skilled workforce is crucial for Industry 4.0 success. The roadmap prioritizes training programs and industry-academia partnerships.
10. Open Innovation and Collaboration
|
Aera 2025 fosters open innovation through multidisciplinary partnerships, knowledge sharing, and technology adoption from other sectors. |
AER Accelerated Research Call for Proposals
The Accelerated Research (AER) program is a new initiative from the Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center (AERTC) at the University of California, Irvine. The program will provide $10 million in funding over five years to support research projects that have the potential to accelerate the development and deployment of clean energy technologies.
The AER program is particularly interested in projects that focus on the following areas:
- Energy storage
- Renewable energy
- Energy efficiency
- Carbon capture and storage
Projects that are selected for funding will receive up to $2 million per year for up to three years. The program is open to researchers from all over the world.
The deadline for submitting proposals is March 1, 2025. For more information, please visit the AER program website.
People Also Ask About AER 2025 Call for Proposals
What is the AER program?
The AER program is a new initiative from the Advanced Energy Research and Technology Center (AERTC) at the University of California, Irvine. The program will provide $10 million in funding over five years to support research projects that have the potential to accelerate the development and deployment of clean energy technologies.
What are the research areas that the AER program is interested in?
The AER program is particularly interested in projects that focus on the following areas:
- Energy storage
- Renewable energy
- Energy efficiency
- Carbon capture and storage
When is the deadline for submitting proposals?
The deadline for submitting proposals is March 1, 2025.
Who is eligible to apply for funding?
The program is open to researchers from all over the world.
How much funding can I receive?
Projects that are selected for funding will receive up to $2 million per year for up to three years.
