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HCN Grants Est. 2026
No. N0001426SBC03 · Office of Naval Research
Open

GlobalX Challenge 26.1: AI-Native Air Interface for Tactical Communication Networks

Dealbreakers No cost share required Audit: not stated Reimbursement-only: not stated

At a glance

This announcement funds research grants for an AI system that can adapt networking protocols and signal modulation for tactical communications in contested, interference-heavy air, surface, and subsurface environments. It is aimed at international teams led by an eligible non-U.S.-based research entity; academia and industry may participate, and U.S.-based non-federal entities may join a multinational team. ONR Global expects to award one grant or multiple grants, with each award up to $250,000 for a 12-month base period and up to another $250,000 for an optional 12-month period, for a total not to exceed $500,000. There is no cost-share requirement stated. The challenge is targeted to researchers in the Indian subcontinent, and the lead PI’s institution outside the U.S. is the prime awardee.

AI-generated summary — verify against the announcement

What it funds

  • Science and Technology and other Research and Development
  • Research & Discovery
  • Researchers & Scholars
  • AI, Computing & Cybersecurity
  • Defense, National Security & Aerospace
Official description from grants.gov

The purpose of the GlobalX Innovation Challenge is to accelerate the traditional knowledge generation cycle, rapidly testing applied research theories to enable the discovery of revolutionary dual-use capabilities for the benefit of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, the commercial marketplace, and the public. Led by the Office of Naval Research Global and targeted at researchers in the Indian subcontinent, this challenge addresses a joint Naval need and seeks to deliver outcomes of value to both the U.S. and India. The expected results are promising, potentially game-changing applied concepts whose maturity may be further advanced through separate follow-on technology development efforts.

Who can apply

  • Others
Geographic restriction None found in the announcement — likely nationwide