NSF Announces $1.5B for Foundational Research via 12 New NOFOs – 'New Golden Age' R&D Priorities
Key Questions
What is the DIU MMA solicitation seeking in a Reaper successor drone?
The solicitation requests an expendable drone with a 2,300 nm combat radius and 25 kW power budget, with proposals due by the July 23 deadline. It signals a doctrinal shift toward mass-produced, attritable systems rather than exquisite platforms.
What production capacity and plans has Helsing announced for the HX-2 drone?
Helsing will build a plant in West Virginia capable of producing 2,000 HX-2 drones per month and is in active negotiations with the US military. The facility aims to strengthen the industrial base for expendable drones.
How does the FCC proposal connect to broader drone supply chain changes?
The FCC is extending trusted drone exemptions while seeking comments on banning sales of military-grade foreign drones. This action supports efforts to overhaul the US drone supply chain amid the shift to domestic, expendable platforms.
NSF announced $1.5B across 12 new NOFOs for foundational research, aligned with administration's 'New Golden Age' R&D priorities. Portfolio-based approach with tailored award mechanisms. Early-career encouragement and reduced paperwork. Significant policy signal for competitive research funding. Specific NOFOs now available: MPS Materials Research Programs ($100M, eight subprograms).