An Active Blast Mitigation System (ABMS) is a system that automatically detects an underbody Improvised Explosive Device (IED) threat as it occurs and rapidly reacts by signaling countermeasures to protect vehicle occupants and other sensitive equipment.
This new technology attempts to neutralize the impulse introduced from a threat by initiating a counter impulse that will minimize or completely negate the impulse experienced.
Currently ABMS technology is at Technical Readiness Level 6 (TRL6). In order to advance the TRL to 8/9 further verifications are required including safety, integration feasibility to the existing fleet, and operational assessments.
The maturation of ABMS as a means to meet blast requirements on new and existing vehicles while maintaining mobility has been identified as a priority R&D requirement to meet increasing threats.
Mature technology solutions are desired that can satisfy this requirement for $1 million or less. The requirement is part of this year’s Department of Defense Rapid Innovation Fund (RIF) approved topics. The RIF is designed to quickly transition innovative technologies that resolve operational challenges into acquisition programs.
Further details are available via Solicitation Number: HQ0034-16-BAA-RIF-0001B, Requirement Number: ARMY54-RDECOM11. The response deadline is May 03, 2016.