Universal Solutions International Awarded OE-I FY25 Funding for Army Aviation Common Lithium-Ion Battery Integration
Newport News, VA – June 1, 2025 For Immediate Release
Universal Solutions International, Inc. (USI) is proud to announce its selection for FY25 funding through the U.S. Army's Operational Energy-Innovation (OE-I) program to support the Army Aviation Common Lithium-Ion Battery (AACLIB) Integration Project. This milestone reinforces USI’s ongoing collaboration with the U.S. Army DEVCOM Aviation & Missile Center (AvMC) to drive innovation in energy resilience and boost the operational readiness of the Army’s rotary-wing platforms.
AACLIB is a next-generation lithium-ion battery designed to replace lead-acid and Nickel Cadmium systems across multiple Army aircraft platforms. It delivers over 30 minutes of emergency power, extends service life, and significantly reduces weight and maintenance demands—key performance upgrades for today’s fast-paced aviation environments.
About USI Universal Solutions International (USI) is a mission-focused technology and logistics integrator dedicated to delivering transformative solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, USI specializes in energy systems, rapid prototyping, and expeditionary logistics that keep America’s armed forces agile, equipped, and ready. ... See MoreSee Less
Tennessee's innovative spirit is soaring to new heights as Whisper Aero, the state's pioneering ultralight aircraft company, receives a $500,000 grant. This exciting award, through the Transportation Network Growth Opportunity (TNGO) initiative, will propel Whisper Aero's groundbreaking electric jet motor technology forward.
Partnering with Tennessee Tech University, this collaboration will see Whisper Aero's revolutionary eQ250 electric jet "propulsors" integrated into an Aériane Swift3 glider, creating an UltraQuiet flight experience unlike any other. Tennessee Tech faculty and students will play a vital role, conducting crucial ground testing at their new Crossville Mobility Incubator, ensuring seamless integration of the engines, batteries, and controllers.
Whisper Aero's game-changing WhisperDrive technology, featuring a multitude of stiff composite fan blades within an acoustically treated duct, is poised to redefine quiet flight. With each eQ250 propulsor delivering up to 80 lbs. of thrust, the current range of approximately 109 miles will be significantly extended to nearly 170 miles with the integration of the latest EPiC 2.0 energy batteries.
Electra successfully tested the EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, proving its blown wing design allows takeoff and landing in just 150 feet — 10% of the usual distance.
Tests with a 20% scale model of the wing show lift coefficients over 20, ensuring safe operations in small spaces. The design benefits commercial and defense sectors, offering new capabilities like connecting remote communities and enhancing logistics for military operations.
“This is a major milestone in demonstrating the EL9’s ability to take off and land in spaces never before possible for fixed-wing aircraft,” said Chris Courtin, Director of Technology Development at Electra. “Verification of the effectiveness of the optimized EL9 wing shows that the EL9 is both transformative and practical. These results give us high confidence in our ability to accurately predict the impacts of electric blown lift on the aircraft, bringing us closer to making our vision of Direct Aviation a reality.”
Piasecki Aircraft Corp. announced acquiring Kaman Air Vehicles’ Kargo UAV and related assets. The company aims to have a VTOL vehicle ready for production in 2026 and plans for FAA certification. The deal includes two UAV prototypes, with research moving to their Coatesville facility.
“We see a growing need for autonomous, expeditionary logistics solutions, not just for the U.S. military but also for a wide range of commercial operations,” Piasecki told FLYING. “Kargo UAV fits perfectly into that vision: It’s a versatile, scalable platform that complements our existing portfolio.”
PiAC, known for its history in vertical flight tech since 1943, is also advancing other projects like the ARES and the PA-890. The military interest in ARES is growing, with PiAC receiving contracts for its development. The Kargo UAV has already caught the attention of the military, with demonstrations ongoing. PiAC foresees various military and commercial applications for the UAV. The manufacturer targets a production model with specific performance metrics. The Kargo UAV’s versatility extends to sectors beyond the military. Piasecki is optimistic about its potential alongside PiAC's other projects.
Logistics experts seek industry help to enhance military battery supply chain by boosting manufacturing and automation. U.S. Defense Logistics Agency seeks innovations like manufacturing efficiency, design optimization, process enhancements, standardization, and supply chain improvements.
BATTNET project aims at advancing battery technology for weapons with a focus on cost reduction, quicker production, and improved quality. This effort includes automating manufacturing processes, optimizing designs for easy production, improving quality control, developing alternative supplies, and standardizing components. Enhancements to the domestic battery supply chain are crucial for ensuring economic and efficient battery procurement for military needs. By utilizing commercial technology and standardizing battery components, the goal is to streamline the supply chain while addressing performance, cost, and distribution challenges.
‼️ PRESS RELEASE ‼️ Universal Solutions International Inc. Awarded Prestigious OASIS+ Small Business Contract Newport News, VA – April 28th, 2025
Contact: Kerri Payne kerri.payne@usi-inc.net
For Immediate Release
Universal Solutions International, Inc. (USI) is excited to announce its recent achievement of being awarded a contract under the One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus (OASIS+) Small Business Multiple Agency Contract (MAC) by the General Services Administration (GSA). This significant milestone strengthens our commitment to delivering innovative solutions across federal agencies while reinforcing our stature as a trusted partner in the government contracting arena.
The OASIS+ program encompasses a suite of six multiple-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts, offering a five-year base period with an additional five-year option term. This framework is designed to streamline the acquisition process for federal agencies, allowing them to efficiently procure a wide range of integrated services from competitive small business contractors like USI.
As a participant in the OASIS+ Small Business MAC, USI is well-positioned to contribute to the federal government’s goal of directing at least 23% of all federal contracting dollars to small businesses each year. The Small Business Administration (SBA) supports this initiative through various programs that help small enterprises like USI win a fair share of federal contracts, gain access to exclusive set-aside and sole-source opportunities, and partner with established contractors to expand their reach.
“Our team is thrilled to have earned this recognition and trust from the GSA,” said Dan Wolfe, CEO of Universal Solutions International. “These contracts not only validate our expertise and dedication to excellence but also enable us to deliver impactful solutions to our federal clients. We look forward to leveraging our experience to meet the unique needs of federal agencies through the OASIS+ platform.”
In addition to providing essential services under the OASIS+ program, USI is committed to fostering business mentoring and education initiatives that empower small businesses to navigate the federal contracting landscape successfully.
About USI Universal Solutions International (USI) is recognized for its proven and demonstrated expertise as a material acquisition support services provider. USI currently provides professional services for DoD customers such as Army Futures Command, FORSCOM, AFMC, USSOCOM, DARPA, DLA, and DTRA in mapping solutions to requirements, solving their toughest problems in maturing technology, developing capability, field demonstration, system of systems integration, new equipment fielding, training, and sustainment. Expertise includes Multi-Service and Other Agency coordination and planning, as well as international market development.
Universal Solutions International Inc. Wins Major Government Contract, OASIS+ Program Newport News, VA – April 24th, 2025
Contact: Kerri Payne kerri.payne@usi-inc.net
For Immediate Release
Universal Solutions International, Inc. (USI) is excited to announce that it has been awarded a contract as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) under the One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus (OASIS+) Small Business Multiple Agency Contract (MAC) by the General Services Administration (GSA). This esteemed contract signifies USI’s commitment to delivering innovative integrated service solutions to federal agencies throughout the United States.
The OASIS+ program is designed to provide federal agencies with a wide range of professional services under a suite of six multiple-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts. This contract includes a five-year base period, with the potential for an additional five-year option term. As part of the federal government’s goal to allocate at least 5% of all federal contracting dollars to SDVOSBs each year, this opportunity allows USI to expand its service offerings and strengthen its position within the federal marketplace.
“The award of this contract reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional service and transformative solutions to federal agencies,” said Dan Wolfe, CEO of Universal Solutions International. “As a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, we are proud to contribute to the federal government’s efforts in supporting SDVOSBs and ensuring that veteran-owned businesses have a voice in the federal contracting arena.”
Participation in the OASIS+ program allows USI to compete for specific federal contracting opportunities that are reserved for businesses in the SDVOSB program. This competitive advantage positions USI as a key player in the integrated services market, poised to meet the diverse needs of federal agencies.
About USI
Universal Solutions International (USI) is recognized for its proven and demonstrated expertise as a material acquisition support services provider. USI currently provides professional services for DoD customers such as Army Futures Command, FORSCOM, AFMC, USSOCOM, DARPA, DLA, and DTRA in mapping solutions to requirements, solving their toughest problems in maturing technology, developing capability, field demonstration, system of systems integration, new equipment fielding, training, and sustainment. Expertise includes Multi-Service and Other Agency coordination and planning, as well as international market development.
Congratulations StoryBook Sport Horses and Gianna Aycock! USI is proud sponsor of StoryBook Sport Horses! Their future is bright!Congratulations to the winners of the $3,500.00 1.25M Spring Festival Speed Stake, here in Tyler at the Texas Rose Spring Festival Horse Show!
1st - Con Sorpresa H and Gianna Aycock 2nd - Flambeur des Forèts and Melanie Hammer 3rd - Istigio D'Elle and Happy Comly 4th - Laphroaig SKB Z and Lexie Wilkison 5th - Fantasia D'Elle and Emory Simpson 5th - IFrench CSH and Happy Comly 6th - NTEC Coco Mambo K and Sidney Pleiss
* Photos courtesy of Jerry Mohme Photography
**Membership has it's perks - Join THJA Today - thja.org ... See MoreSee Less
USI is a proud sponsor of Storybook Sport Horses at the upcoming Texas Shoot-Out scheduled for May 23rd at the picturesque Texas Rose Horse Park in Tyler.
This event is not just a display of skill and passion but a celebration of the vibrant equestrian community against the backdrop of the blooming Texas spring. With an array of competitions, participants can look forward to an exciting event filled with opportunities to showcase their talent, perhaps even competing for the coveted World Champion Hunter Rider points that add an extra thrill to the competitive atmosphere.
Universal Solutions International Awarded OE-I FY25 Funding for Army Aviation Common Lithium-Ion Battery Integration
Newport News, VA – June 1, 2025
For Immediate Release
Universal Solutions International, Inc. (USI) is proud to announce its selection for FY25 funding through the U.S. Army's Operational Energy-Innovation (OE-I) program to support the Army Aviation Common Lithium-Ion Battery (AACLIB) Integration Project. This milestone reinforces USI’s ongoing collaboration with the U.S. Army DEVCOM Aviation & Missile Center (AvMC) to drive innovation in energy resilience and boost the operational readiness of the Army’s rotary-wing platforms.
AACLIB is a next-generation lithium-ion battery designed to replace lead-acid and Nickel Cadmium systems across multiple Army aircraft platforms. It delivers over 30 minutes of emergency power, extends service life, and significantly reduces weight and maintenance demands—key performance upgrades for today’s fast-paced aviation environments.
About USI
Universal Solutions International (USI) is a mission-focused technology and logistics integrator dedicated to delivering transformative solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, USI specializes in energy systems, rapid prototyping, and expeditionary logistics that keep America’s armed forces agile, equipped, and ready. ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
Great job!
Tennessee's innovative spirit is soaring to new heights as Whisper Aero, the state's pioneering ultralight aircraft company, receives a $500,000 grant. This exciting award, through the Transportation Network Growth Opportunity (TNGO) initiative, will propel Whisper Aero's groundbreaking electric jet motor technology forward.
Partnering with Tennessee Tech University, this collaboration will see Whisper Aero's revolutionary eQ250 electric jet "propulsors" integrated into an Aériane Swift3 glider, creating an UltraQuiet flight experience unlike any other. Tennessee Tech faculty and students will play a vital role, conducting crucial ground testing at their new Crossville Mobility Incubator, ensuring seamless integration of the engines, batteries, and controllers.
Whisper Aero's game-changing WhisperDrive technology, featuring a multitude of stiff composite fan blades within an acoustically treated duct, is poised to redefine quiet flight. With each eQ250 propulsor delivering up to 80 lbs. of thrust, the current range of approximately 109 miles will be significantly extended to nearly 170 miles with the integration of the latest EPiC 2.0 energy batteries.
Let's celebrate this milestone as Whisper Aero prepares to redefine the future of flight! Learn more here: ow.ly/uaKc50W0bnb
*Photo Credit: Whisper Aero
#WhisperAero #TennesseeTech #FutureOfFlight #AviationCommunity ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Electra successfully tested the EL9 Ultra Short hybrid-electric aircraft, proving its blown wing design allows takeoff and landing in just 150 feet — 10% of the usual distance.
Tests with a 20% scale model of the wing show lift coefficients over 20, ensuring safe operations in small spaces. The design benefits commercial and defense sectors, offering new capabilities like connecting remote communities and enhancing logistics for military operations.
“This is a major milestone in demonstrating the EL9’s ability to take off and land in spaces never before possible for fixed-wing aircraft,” said Chris Courtin, Director of Technology Development at Electra. “Verification of the effectiveness of the optimized EL9 wing shows that the EL9 is both transformative and practical. These results give us high confidence in our ability to accurately predict the impacts of electric blown lift on the aircraft, bringing us closer to making our vision of Direct Aviation a reality.”
The US Army supported testing, and Electra is refining the EL9 based on results for a more sustainable future in air mobility. With over 2,200 pre-orders, valued over $10 billion, Electra plans test flights in 2027 and commercial service in 2029 under FAA regulations.
Learn more about this accomplishment here: ow.ly/7VZr50VWuMb.
#HybridElectricAircraft #AviationInnovation #AirMobility #ElectricAircraft #FutureOfFlight ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Piasecki Aircraft Corp. announced acquiring Kaman Air Vehicles’ Kargo UAV and related assets. The company aims to have a VTOL vehicle ready for production in 2026 and plans for FAA certification. The deal includes two UAV prototypes, with research moving to their Coatesville facility.
“We see a growing need for autonomous, expeditionary logistics solutions, not just for the U.S. military but also for a wide range of commercial operations,” Piasecki told FLYING. “Kargo UAV fits perfectly into that vision: It’s a versatile, scalable platform that complements our existing portfolio.”
PiAC, known for its history in vertical flight tech since 1943, is also advancing other projects like the ARES and the PA-890. The military interest in ARES is growing, with PiAC receiving contracts for its development. The Kargo UAV has already caught the attention of the military, with demonstrations ongoing. PiAC foresees various military and commercial applications for the UAV. The manufacturer targets a production model with specific performance metrics. The Kargo UAV’s versatility extends to sectors beyond the military. Piasecki is optimistic about its potential alongside PiAC's other projects.
Learn more here: ow.ly/HxOM50VQbtq
#PiaseckiAircraft #VTOLTechnology #AviationInnovation #DroneTechnology #UAVDevelopment #FAARegulations ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Logistics experts seek industry help to enhance military battery supply chain by boosting manufacturing and automation. U.S. Defense Logistics Agency seeks innovations like manufacturing efficiency, design optimization, process enhancements, standardization, and supply chain improvements.
BATTNET project aims at advancing battery technology for weapons with a focus on cost reduction, quicker production, and improved quality. This effort includes automating manufacturing processes, optimizing designs for easy production, improving quality control, developing alternative supplies, and standardizing components. Enhancements to the domestic battery supply chain are crucial for ensuring economic and efficient battery procurement for military needs. By utilizing commercial technology and standardizing battery components, the goal is to streamline the supply chain while addressing performance, cost, and distribution challenges.
Additionally, efficient battery supply chain management plays a key role in optimizing procurement, storage, distribution, and disposal processes, thereby increasing battery shelf-life, reducing costs, and enhancing logistics.
Learn more here: ow.ly/Kgbx50VIUkE
#BatterySupplyChain #MilitaryLogistics #ManufacturingInnovation #BatteryTechnology ... See MoreSee Less
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‼️ PRESS RELEASE ‼️
Universal Solutions International Inc. Awarded Prestigious OASIS+ Small Business Contract
Newport News, VA – April 28th, 2025
Contact:
Kerri Payne
kerri.payne@usi-inc.net
For Immediate Release
Universal Solutions International, Inc. (USI) is excited to announce its recent achievement of being awarded a contract under the One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus (OASIS+) Small Business Multiple Agency Contract (MAC) by the General Services Administration (GSA). This significant milestone strengthens our commitment to delivering innovative solutions across federal agencies while reinforcing our stature as a trusted partner in the government contracting arena.
The OASIS+ program encompasses a suite of six multiple-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts, offering a five-year base period with an additional five-year option term. This framework is designed to streamline the acquisition process for federal agencies, allowing them to efficiently procure a wide range of integrated services from competitive small business contractors like USI.
As a participant in the OASIS+ Small Business MAC, USI is well-positioned to contribute to the federal government’s goal of directing at least 23% of all federal contracting dollars to small businesses each year. The Small Business Administration (SBA) supports this initiative through various programs that help small enterprises like USI win a fair share of federal contracts, gain access to exclusive set-aside and sole-source opportunities, and partner with established contractors to expand their reach.
“Our team is thrilled to have earned this recognition and trust from the GSA,” said Dan Wolfe, CEO of Universal Solutions International. “These contracts not only validate our expertise and dedication to excellence but also enable us to deliver impactful solutions to our federal clients. We look forward to leveraging our experience to meet the unique needs of federal agencies through the OASIS+ platform.”
In addition to providing essential services under the OASIS+ program, USI is committed to fostering business mentoring and education initiatives that empower small businesses to navigate the federal contracting landscape successfully.
About USI
Universal Solutions International (USI) is recognized for its proven and demonstrated expertise as a material acquisition support services provider. USI currently provides professional services for DoD customers such as Army Futures Command, FORSCOM, AFMC, USSOCOM, DARPA, DLA, and DTRA in mapping solutions to requirements, solving their toughest problems in maturing technology, developing capability, field demonstration, system of systems integration, new equipment fielding, training, and sustainment. Expertise includes Multi-Service and Other Agency coordination and planning, as well as international market development.
Phone (757) 563-3841 * Email: info@usi-inc.net * Web: usi-inc.com
#OASISPlus #SmallBusinessContract #GovContracting #NewportNewsVA #USISuccess #GovernmentContracting #SmallBusinessSupport ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Universal Solutions International Inc. Wins Major Government Contract, OASIS+ Program
Newport News, VA – April 24th, 2025
Contact:
Kerri Payne
kerri.payne@usi-inc.net
For Immediate Release
Universal Solutions International, Inc. (USI) is excited to announce that it has been awarded a contract as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) under the One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Plus (OASIS+) Small Business Multiple Agency Contract (MAC) by the General Services Administration (GSA). This esteemed contract signifies USI’s commitment to delivering innovative integrated service solutions to federal agencies throughout the United States.
The OASIS+ program is designed to provide federal agencies with a wide range of professional services under a suite of six multiple-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts. This contract includes a five-year base period, with the potential for an additional five-year option term. As part of the federal government’s goal to allocate at least 5% of all federal contracting dollars to SDVOSBs each year, this opportunity allows USI to expand its service offerings and strengthen its position within the federal marketplace.
“The award of this contract reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional service and transformative solutions to federal agencies,” said Dan Wolfe, CEO of Universal Solutions International. “As a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, we are proud to contribute to the federal government’s efforts in supporting SDVOSBs and ensuring that veteran-owned businesses have a voice in the federal contracting arena.”
Participation in the OASIS+ program allows USI to compete for specific federal contracting opportunities that are reserved for businesses in the SDVOSB program. This competitive advantage positions USI as a key player in the integrated services market, poised to meet the diverse needs of federal agencies.
About USI
Universal Solutions International (USI) is recognized for its proven and demonstrated expertise as a material acquisition support services provider. USI currently provides professional services for DoD customers such as Army Futures Command, FORSCOM, AFMC, USSOCOM, DARPA, DLA, and DTRA in mapping solutions to requirements, solving their toughest problems in maturing technology, developing capability, field demonstration, system of systems integration, new equipment fielding, training, and sustainment. Expertise includes Multi-Service and Other Agency coordination and planning, as well as international market development.
Phone (757) 563-3841 * Email: info@usi-inc.net * Web: usi-inc.com
#OASISPlus #SDVOSB #FederalContracting #VeteranOwnedBusiness #IntegratedServices ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Congratulations StoryBook Sport Horses and Gianna Aycock! USI is proud sponsor of StoryBook Sport Horses! Their future is bright!Congratulations to the winners of the $3,500.00 1.25M Spring Festival Speed Stake, here in Tyler at the Texas Rose Spring Festival Horse Show!
1st - Con Sorpresa H and Gianna Aycock
2nd - Flambeur des Forèts and Melanie Hammer
3rd - Istigio D'Elle and Happy Comly
4th - Laphroaig SKB Z and Lexie Wilkison
5th - Fantasia D'Elle and Emory Simpson
5th - IFrench CSH and Happy Comly
6th - NTEC Coco Mambo K and Sidney Pleiss
* Photos courtesy of Jerry Mohme Photography
**Membership has it's perks - Join THJA Today - thja.org ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
USI is a proud sponsor of Storybook Sport Horses at the upcoming Texas Shoot-Out scheduled for May 23rd at the picturesque Texas Rose Horse Park in Tyler.
This event is not just a display of skill and passion but a celebration of the vibrant equestrian community against the backdrop of the blooming Texas spring. With an array of competitions, participants can look forward to an exciting event filled with opportunities to showcase their talent, perhaps even competing for the coveted World Champion Hunter Rider points that add an extra thrill to the competitive atmosphere.
Stay tuned for results!
www.southboundshows.com/the-texas-shoot-out
#horseshow #proudsponser #storybooksporthorses ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook