The Air Force Research Laboratory/Directed Energy Directorate is soliciting white papers and proposals for research and development in the area of directed energy technology. The announcement is open, and white papers and proposals will be accepted through a two-step process. The topics of interest include directed energy sources, acquisition tracking pointing, beam control and atmospheric compensation systems, DE weapon systems, DE effects testing, modeling, simulation and analysis, wargaming, innovative space domain awareness, experiments, testing and demonstrations, and laboratory materials, supplies and services in support of experimentation. The government is interested in innovative solutions that can enhance the mission effectiveness of military personnel and the supporting platforms, systems, components, or materials. The announcement provides detailed information on the evaluation criteria, submission requirements, and contract award process. Some key points to consider: * The announcement is open, and white papers and proposals will be accepted through a two-step process. * The government is interested in innovative solutions that can enhance the mission effectiveness of military personnel and the supporting platforms, systems, components, or materials. * The evaluation criteria include technical merit, relevance to the topic area, and cost realism. * The submission requirements include a white paper and a full proposal, and the government reserves the right to request additional information or clarification. * The contract award process will be based on the evaluation of white papers and proposals, and the government reserves the right to make awards to one or more offerors.