Vertx Partners

West Virginia has the potential to be a leader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) through the state's existing infrastructure. So, how do you take potential and turn it into actionable steps? Dive into our recent guide to learn more about how West Virginia can help lead the national AAM plan and tap into a projected $115 billion market: https://buff.ly/3YNozoW

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is ramping up efforts to enhance drone warfare capabilities. DIU’s updated Blue UAS List now includes more drones and accessories, focusing on modularity and quick software updates. DIU aims to cut software approval time to 96 hours to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving battlefield. A competitive refresh of the list is planned, with tactical operators providing feedback. The future of military drones is fast, flexible, and ever-evolving. Read more here: https://buff.ly/3WQ9z70

Earlier this year, Vertx Partners, in collaboration with Deloitte, released a study exploring West Virginia's potential as a hub for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). The study takes a comprehensive, three-phase approach to assess the state's capabilities, needs, and competitive advantages in the AAM sector. Phase 1: Baselining Phase 1 established a baseline by an AAM landscape assessment and a current state assessment of West Virginia. The landscape assessment included leveraging over 140 online sources and over ten AAM experts and SMEs to identify AAM players, state trends, national priorities and industry outlooks across the four key pillars. The project involved conducting over 40 interviews with West Virginian AAM stakeholders spanning government, education, academia, and industry backgrounds paired with a two-day site visit in Charleston and Mingo County. Insights from the interviews and site visits identified West Virginia’s current assets and enablers across the four pillars that could be leveraged for AAM. To see how this approach was used, check out the study here: https://buff.ly/3U94t5G #YesWV #AdvancedAirMobility #Innovation

Find and attend the most relevant industry events updated weekly on the Vertx website. Don’t miss out—check out the upcoming events now! 🗓️ https://buff.ly/3yoyW84

Vertx has compiled a guide featuring 10 essential tips for complying with Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. 1. Understanding Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Compliance 2. Navigating The Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 3. Export Control Regulations 4. Small Business Size Standards 5. Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) Audits 6. Quality Assurance & Testing Standards 7. Environmental & Safety Regulations 8. Intellectual Property Rights 9. Labor & Employment Laws 10. Government Reporting & Compliance Obligations To read these tips, check out our latest guide: https://buff.ly/3SL9DDP

The U.S. Space Force boosted its launch contracts with United Launch Alliance (ULA) and SpaceX by nearly $1.8 billion due to a surge in demand for missions under the NSSL Phase 2 program. ULA’s contract now totals $4.5 billion, and SpaceX’s contract is up to $4 billion. This adjustment comes as the program expands from 34 to 49 missions. For more information, go to: https://buff.ly/3M0dA3Z

The Air Force is launching the Integrated Capabilities Command (ICC) to drive modernization and streamline capability development. Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin aims to have the first personnel in place by the end of this year. The ICC, led by a three-star general, will unify operational concepts and modernization plans under a single-force design. By consolidating expertise from major commands, the ICC will address fragmented processes and enhance mission outcomes, potentially fostering more innovation. Read more about how the Air Force evolves to keep pace with technology and future warfare demands: https://buff.ly/3WMMTFW

Vertx Partners offers 6 comprehensive guides on diving into Other Transaction Agreements (OTAs): 1. OTAs Explained 2. How to Join an OT Consortia 3. The Three Levels of OTAs 4. OTA Success Stories 5. Extensive List of OT Consortia 6. Assessing the Value Proposition of OT Consortia Discover how OTAs can revolutionize your approach to defense contracting and innovation: https://buff.ly/3Sxbo7H

The Vertx Partners team had a great time attending Life Cycle Industry Days last week! Vertx President Sean Frisbee, VP of Operations Mary Cook, and Phase III experts Chris Ford and Greg Green sat in on the Life Cycle Management Center’s future requirements, collaboration opportunities, and topics covering the entire acquisition life cycle and management across AFLCMC portfolios.  #LCID #Innovation #USAF

How can rural Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) education enhance West Virginia? There's a growing realization that AAM can be a game-changer in rural settings. This is particularly true in a state like West Virginia, where traditional education systems face significant challenges. Between 64% and 93% of West Virginians live in rural areas. In this guide, we cover: ▪️ How to combat WV "brain drain" ▪️ MINGO COUNTY REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY's vision ▪️ Future AAM programs ▪️ AAM education as a foundation Learn how AAM will improve West Virginia's education: https://buff.ly/3Lw0jzN