Solving Complex Problems with Unconventional Prototypes

In recent years, innovative procurement methods, specifically Other Transactions Authorities (OTAs), have become the driving force behind some of the most groundbreaking prototypes in defense, pushing the boundaries of science, technology, and engineering.

This shift represents a change in how governments approach problem-solving, using the power of prototyping to de-risk investments and deploy solutions quickly, sometimes using new contracting methods for unconventional projects.

What is an OTA?

OTAs are modern contracting methods that provide a reprieve from the slow process of implementing a traditional Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) contract. When the DoD or military services need to access R&D projects and prototypes from commercial sources, OTAs grant them more flexibility than traditional FAR contracts allow.

These agreements are valuable because they make access to mission-critical services, data, and technologies quicker and easier. Government agencies can then move forward by using the services to achieve their defense and military objectives.

OTAs are managed by organizations like NSTXL who have added flexibility. This increases the versatility of submissions, decreases the government’s risk, and speeds up acquisition timelines even further.

Unconventional Prototypes

The last decade has witnessed a surge in unconventional prototypes driven by government funding, signifying a willingness to embrace risk.

Rapid Vaccine Development

The COVID-19 pandemic illustrated the power of government-funded prototypes in healthcare. Programs like Operation Warp Speed in the US invested billions in developing and manufacturing multiple vaccine candidates before they were proven effective. This program was a partnership between the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Defense (DOD).

This pre-emptive approach, essentially creating “prototypes for mass production,” compressed the timeline for vaccine availability, saving countless lives. This model challenged traditional vaccine development timelines, demonstrating the potential of government-backed risk-taking in critical situations.

In addition, there are countless examples of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) utilizing OTAs to accelerate the development of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostic tools.

Modular Military Buildings

Government agencies like FEMA often utilize modular buildings to quickly provide temporary housing and facilities after natural disasters. These contracts prioritize rapid prototyping and deployment to address urgent needs.

In these examples, contracts may specify requirements for durability, weather resistance, and adaptability to various terrains, leading to specialized prototyping efforts.

Autonomous Aircraft Systems

The cutting edge of military technology relies heavily on prototyping, and OTAs are key to this process. They have enabled the rapid development and testing of next-generation military technologies like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with advanced AI and autonomous capabilities, hypersonic weapons systems, and next-generation fighter jets.

These prototypes undergo rigorous testing and refinement, allowing for iterative improvements before committing to full-scale production. The speed and agility afforded by OTAs are crucial in maintaining a technological edge.

One example of an OTA accelerating this technology is the MACH-TB 2.0 project under the S²MARTS OTA. This project bridges the gap between ground testing of low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) technologies and full system flight testing of high-TRL technologies. This will reduce overall hypersonic development risks and provide rapid innovative hypersonic technologies to the warfighter.

Robotic Combat Vehicles

The Army has used OTAs to accelerate the development of its Robotic Combat Vehicle program. This involves working with various companies to prototype unmanned ground vehicles for combat roles. This program is a good example of how OTAs integrate cutting-edge technologies from multiple vendors into a complex system.

Microelectronics Commons

Adding to the innovative landscape of OTA-driven projects is the Microelectronics Commons program, a unique initiative operating under an OTA framework. This program is specifically designed to revitalize and expedite microelectronics manufacturing within the United States by establishing regional innovation Hubs.

These Hubs serve as collaborative ecosystems, bringing together government, academia, and private industry to prototype and scale cutting-edge microelectronics technologies.

By leveraging the flexibility of OTAs, the Microelectronics Commons program can rapidly fund and deploy projects, fostering a robust domestic supply chain and ensuring technological leadership in this critical sector. This approach not only addresses national security concerns related to microchip availability but also stimulates regional economic growth by creating high-tech jobs and attracting investment.

Embracing Innovation

The use of government contracts and OTAs to create unconventional prototypes is revolutionizing how we approach problem-solving for defense. By embracing innovative procurement methods like OTAs, governments can tap into a wider range of expertise and accelerate the development of solutions to critical challenges.

From vaccines that combat global pandemics to advanced military technologies that safeguard national security, and from exploring the depths of space to protecting our digital infrastructure, these prototypes are shaping our future.

NSTXL is focused on building a network of innovators and creators across the most sought-after emerging technology fields. Within the platform, NSTXL supports two OTAs; the Strategic & Spectrum Missions Advanced Resilient Trusted Systems (S²MARTS) and Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC).

NSTXL‘s experts are committed to helping your government agency capitalize on trends in emerging technology.

Join the mission today.