DASA Launches Second Phase of Stopping It in Its Tracks Competition
The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA) is part of the UK Government’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), run by the Ministry of Defence. The Accelerator funds proof-of-concept research that offers a high potential benefit to defence and security in the UK.
DASA has launched the second phase of its ‘Stopping It in Its Tracks’ competition, which funds proposals for novel approaches to stopping or impeding tanks and other heavy armoured vehicles (tracked or wheeled) by addressing one or both of the two core technical challenges:
Challenge 1 – physical ‘barriers’ – Any physical ‘barrier’ or effect that has the potential to stop or slow something as heavy and mobile as a tank, but that is also deployable over a wide area if required.
Challenge 2 – invisible ‘barriers’ – Invisible ‘barriers’ or effects may be used in combination with physical ‘barriers’ or effects especially when they can offer long term disability or degradation of the vehicle, or incapacitate it in a fire zone where other defensive solutions are in operation.
The competition will fund multiple proposals which must achieve a minimum of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 (technology basic validation in a relevant environment) by the end of the phase (to be evidenced at the demonstration event). Applicants do not need to have applied for or been successful in the first phase to apply.
If successful, contracts will be awarded for a duration of up to 12 months, but with a breakpoint at six months. Additional funding is anticipated for further phases to develop technologies to TRL 6 to develop a deployable battlefield solution by 2028.
Submissions are welcome from all organisation types and individuals, with no nationality restrictions. Both phase 1 existing suppliers and new suppliers are welcome to apply. New suppliers to this theme should make themselves aware of the previous competition and the projects funded.
Funding of up to £2 million is expected to support multiple proposals. Proposals are expected to be in the region of £250,000-£750,000. Proposals in excess of £750,000 will be rejected.
Applications should be submitted by 16 August 2019.
More information about this research funding opportunity and the application process is available on the RESEARCHconnect funding information platform. RESEARCHconnect provides up-to-the minute content, insight and analysis on research funding news and policy. To find out more about how RESEARCHconnect can keep you in the know, and subscription fees, contact us today.