A-- NAWCTSD R&D Broad Agency Announcement

NAWCTSD has comprehensive simulation and training systems responsibilities ranging from research and technology base development through system acquisition and life cycle support.  The Research and Engineering Competency is NAWCTSD’s arm of the laboratory system.  Its mission is to plan and perform a full range of directed R&D in support of Naval training systems.  The work covers the broad spectrum of training simulation technology as applied across mission areas and all stages of training.  It is intended that programs under the BAA include Fundamental research related to this mission.  “Fundamental Research” means basic and applied research in science and engineering, the results of which ordinarily are published and shared broadly within the scientific community, as distinguished from proprietary research and from industrial development, design, production, and product utilization, the results of which ordinarily are restricted for proprietary or national security reasons. 

The requirement for R&D conducted under this BAA is to explore unique training techniques incorporating innovative behavioral and engineering technologies, which are needed for more effective and/or less expensive training systems.  Technology products may include empirical research, software and computer models, test beds and proof of concept demonstrations.  Projects should provide insight to NAWCTSD personnel to optimize the use of training systems.  Research areas that are described in the remainder of this chapter are important, but other R&D topics supporting training systems may also be considered.  The following research areas and topics are not intended to be mutually exclusive but rather are often interdependent and may be exercised in various combinations at any time.  In fact, proposals that involve interdisciplinary teams are especially encouraged.