DoD Opportunities Update #53
Curated rollup of eye-catching DoD RFIs and RFPs from the previous week, geared towards government and private sector leaders across A&D and defense tech.
Today’s Issue at a Glance
NOTE: See Sections I-V for more details, hyperlinks, and response deadlines (numbers correspond)
Army
RAPID GROUND COMBAT VEHICLE DESIGN & PRODUCTION AT SCALE — CPE GROUND (UPDATED RFI): 40–80 ton tracked combat vehicles; ~10 prototypes starting FY27, scaling to 2,500
PRIVATE CAPITAL PARTNERSHIPS — U.S. ARMY (RFI): Deal structures/P3s crowding in private capital across six modernization pillars — energy, OIB expansion, autonomous logistics, dual-use manufacturing, critical minerals, and real asset utilization. Army as anchor customer, not sole revenue source
DRONE-EMPLACED C-UAS SENSORS AND EFFECTORS — ARL (RFI): Low-SWaP sensing (<$3K/unit at 10K qty) detecting Group 1–3 UAS; soft/hard-kill effectors (<$4K/unit at 10K qty) deployable by Class 1 UAS or ground-based
COMMON AUTONOMOUS MULTIDOMAIN LAUNCHER MUNITIONS PALLET — PAE FIRES / RCCTO (RSB): Self-contained munitions pallets for Tomahawk, PAC-3/MSE, AIM-9X, and GMLRS/PrSM on an autonomous truck chassis. Three-phase OTA; separate solicitations for AMP and Weapon System Integrator
INDUSTRY ENTRY POINT FOR MULTI-DOMAIN EXPERIMENTATION EVENTS (SPARX) — T2COM (UPDATED SPECIAL NOTICE): Rolling intake for technology submissions into Army experimentation events through Apr 2030.
CLINICAL TRIALS FOR CBRN COUNTERMEASURES — CPE CBRND-ET (SOURCES SOUGHT): Integrator to build and operate a multi-site clinical trial network for rapid CBRN MCM development through Phase 2.
UAS WEAPON PAYLOAD INTERFACE — PM CLOSE COMBAT SYSTEMS (SOURCES SOUGHT): Lethal payload components compliant with CLIK or sUPI standards — weapons release systems, fireset boxes, purpose-built munitions. ROM pricing for 1,000 units; industry day planned Summer 2026
TACTICAL COMBAT CASUALTY CARE (TC3) SUPPORT SERVICES — CPE STRI (UPDATED SOURCES SOUGHT): Instructor/Operators at MSTCs worldwide for 68W sustainment, TC3, and CLS training. Update: Page limit increased to 10 pages; must assess commercial vs. non-commercial services
MAN-PACKABLE EW SYSTEM WITH ON-BOARD COMPUTE — CECOM (CSO): Single-soldier CEMA system ≤20 lbs with integrated GPU compute, SDRs, FPGAs, PNT, and TAK GUI. Forward-reprogrammable without return to secure facilities; NGC2-compatible data backhaul
AI-ENABLED ENTERPRISE TASK MANAGEMENT PLATFORM (JETMS) — CPE ES2 / AESMS (UPDATED OT CALL FOR SOLUTION): AI/ML platform replacing CATMS and ETMS2 for DoW-wide task and correspondence management; 150,000+ daily users. Update: Gate Criterion 1 broadened — IL5+ hosting platform with credible ATO path now qualifies
Air Force / Space Force
DISTRIBUTED SURGE MANUFACTURING FOR WEAPON SYSTEMS (ENDLESS FORGE) — AFRL RX (TWO-STEP OPEN SOLICITATION): MaaS capability for distributed, reconfigurable weapon system production.
AI/ML STRATEGY UPDATE AND MISSION APPLICATIONS — SSC/S6 (INDUSTRY DAY / RFI): Virtual event covering SSC–CDAO AI vision, USSF CY26 priorities, and System Delta scope. RFI collecting AI/ML capabilities for space, acquisition, and enterprise ops
SELF-FORMING AIRBORNE NETWORKS & TACTICAL MESH CONNECTIVITY — AFRL ROME (UPDATED OPEN BAA): ~$99.5M for airborne network management, mesh waveforms, aerial demos, and modular AESA tracking.
AIR OPERATIONS CENTER C2 MODERNIZATION — PAE C3BM (SOURCES SOUGHT): Full-service systems integrator for AOC Weapon System modernization. Emphasis on nontraditional contractors and OTA pathways.
RADAR SENSOR DATA INTEGRATION AND SUSTAINMENT FOR CENTCOM AOR — A6 (SOURCES SOUGHT): Integration of multi-type radar feeds to BC3-T and ATC facilities across Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE. 24/7 remote monitoring; 72-hour OCONUS personnel replacement capability required
TACTICAL-EDGE CROSS-DOMAIN NETWORKING — AFRL ROME (UPDATED BAA): Software-defined CDS broker, red/black networking, and MS&A testbed for tactical JADC2. ~$70M ceiling FY24–FY27.
MULTI-DOMAIN R&D ENTERPRISE SOLICITATION FRAMEWORK — AFRL (DRAFT CSO FOR COMMENT): Draft enterprise-wide CSO replacing per-directorate solicitations — 56 technology sub-areas across Air, Space, Cyberspace/EW, and Cross-Domain.
Navy / USMC
CONSORTIUM MANAGEMENT FIRM FOR LITTORAL WARFARE AND COASTAL DEFENSE (SLAM2ER) — NSWC PCD (RFI): Single firm to manage OTA lifecycle — membership, solicitations, evaluations, awards — across 14 technical areas spanning MIW, SSW, EOD, RAS, AI/ML, and more
sUAS ARCHITECTURE STANDARDIZATION AND CYBERSECURITY — NAWCAD WOLF (RFO): Systems engineering, RMF cybersecurity, and lifecycle support for the Navy’s Small UAS Reusable Architecture. SB set-aside under SeaPort-NxG; base year plus four options
CYBER, AI, AND NETWORK PROTOTYPING CONSORTIUM FOR NAVAL SURFACE WARFARE — NSWC CORONA (UPDATED OTA RFP): Strategic communications and narrative development for NIWC Atlantic’s RDT&E portfolio. Update: Q&A released; ~25 projects totaling $30M estimated in year one
CAPACITY AS A SERVICE (CaaS) FOR DATA CENTERS — MCICOM G-6 (UPDATED SOURCES SOUGHT): On-premise, contractor-owned bare-metal compute/storage/networking at two government data centers.
MULTI-SENSOR DATA FUSION CORRELATOR FOR COUNTER-UAS (SENSEI) — NSWC CRANE (RFI): Standalone software fusing tracks from diverse sensors into a unified picture across air, ground, surface, and undersea domains. Must handle swarm-scale tracks; potential multi-award under EMC² OTA
COMMON CONTROLLER FOR MULTI-PLATFORM UAS OPERATIONS (UCC) — PMA-263 (SOURCES SOUGHT): Portable, ruggedized GCS for Marines to simultaneously operate multiple UAS types from different manufacturers. MOSA-compliant, AI/ML-enabled, STANAG 4586/MAVLink compatible; 50–1,000 unit scalability
AIRBORNE EW SYSTEMS REPAIR, ENGINEERING & DEPOT LOGISTICS — NSWC CRANE (SOLICITATION): Depot-level sustainment for airborne EW — component repair, TPS development, reverse engineering, composites/radome fabrication, and logistics. SeaPort-NxG recompete; CPFF, base plus four option years
SATELLITE GROUND STATION OPS AND SPACECRAFT C2 SUPPORT — NCST (SOURCES SOUGHT): Operations and engineering for NRL’s Blossom Point facility — spacecraft C2 via Neptune® architecture, RF engineering for 10+ antenna systems, IT/cyber sustainment. On-site daily; TS/SCI for some roles
DARPA
CARDIOVASCULAR DIGITAL TWIN (VITAL) — BTO (SPECIAL NOTICE): Continuously updating patient-specific cardiovascular models combining medical imaging with live sensor data for real-time clinical prediction.
QUANTITATIVE GEOECONOMIC THEORY FOR U.S. ECONOMIC STATECRAFT (NASCENT) — I2O (OT SOLICITATION): Foundational science for designing positive-sum economic structures that achieve national security objectives. Quantitative theory reducible to algorithms — not policy recommendations.
REVOLUTIONARY R&D FOR RAPID DESIGN, SURGE PRODUCTION, LONG-RANGE EFFECTS, AND DISRUPTIVE TECH — TTO (UPDATED BAA): Four focus areas: design/build/buy compression, surge production, long-range effects in A2/AD, and disruptive innovation.
LAB-GROWN BIOLOGICAL COMPUTERS FOR ULTRA-LOW-POWER EDGE AI AND DRONE NAVIGATION (O-CIRCUIT) — BTO (SPECIAL NOTICE): Living-cell processors that learn and infer at biological-scale power consumption.
AI CYBER SECURITY (BORDEAUX) — I2O (OT SOLICITATION — TS//SAP): Classified program researching cyber security performance in AI. Proposers Day 16–17 Mar 2026.
ENERGY STORAGE WITHOUT RIGID PACKAGING (PROMETHEAN CLAY) — MTO (UPDATED OT SOLICITATION): Redesigned energy storage eliminating rigid metal shells — internally bonded materials stable without external pressure.
Other OSD / Joint
WMD DEFEAT & OPERATIONAL ADVISORY SERVICES (RADAR) — DTRA (SOURCES SOUGHT): CWMD operations support — pathway/device defeat, DBHT planning, sensitive activities, contingency ops. Consolidates two existing contracts (Decisive Action and Diamond Harbor).
UNIVERSITY R&D FOR GEOPOSITIONING AND MAPPING (MUSE 2) — NGA (UPDATED BAA TOPIC CALL): Grants for U.S. universities in geodesy and geomatics — gravity modeling, photogrammetry, InSAR, multi-sensor 3D reconstruction. $25M total; universities with no prior work encouraged to apply
COUNTERINTELLIGENCE DATA FUSION & ANALYTICS PLATFORM — DCSA (SOURCES SOUGHT / INDUSTRY DAY): Vendor-hosted SaaS fusing structured and unstructured CI data into an entity-centric model with AI/ML-driven analytics. Dual-enclave IL5/IL6; up to 15,000 users, ~800TB storage. Industry Day 11 Mar 2026
F-35 JOINT VIRTUAL ENTERPRISE IT OPS AND CYBERSECURITY — JPO (INDUSTRY DAY): Full-spectrum IT ops, ITSM, and cybersecurity across 22 sites — 338 servers, 1,300+ VoIP devices, 18+ custom apps. Industry Day 21 May 2026; helpdesk required within walking distance of JPO HQ in Arlington, VA
SEC I - ARMY
1) Rapid Ground Combat Vehicle Design & Production at Scale
CPE Ground | Updated RFI | Response Due: 19 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Update 0002: Government released Q&A confirming partial-capability responses are welcome and requesting respondents identify minimum commitments or barriers to future participation.
Seeking
The original RFI seeks industry capabilities for rapid tracked combat vehicle production at scale. Core parameters: 40–80 ton tracked combat vehicles, approximately 10 prototypes beginning FY27 (≤24-month lead time), scaling to continuous production of up to 2,500 vehicles per year. NAICS 336992. Responses must address capabilities across several areas:
Rapid, scalable production — surge/drawdown management, ICD 705-compliant classified facilities, heavy vehicle manufacturing qualifications (armor welding, machining, large-caliber weapon bore sight, assembly, test), heavy materials capability, rail/truck transportation, and GFM/CFM warehousing
Modern manufacturing — digital engineering, digital manufacturing, AI, automation, MOSA-compliant open architecture (including GCCIA, SOSA), DevSecOps, and integrated test/validation on the production line
Supply chain resilience — low-volume non-commercial component management, avoidance of bottlenecks and supplier lock-in, leveraging non-traditional and commercial partners
Data rights and IP strategy — enabling USG and third parties to independently develop, maintain, and replace major subsystems and software; digital twin of manufacturing architecture with full data rights and associated artifacts
Flexibility, adaptability, and continuous improvement — evolving requirements, multi-product configurations, leveraging government-provided digital twins, incorporating feedback and new technologies into active production
Digital tools and program protection — IL5 and IL6 cloud environments, secure data exchange, and support for USG/third-party repair and maintenance
Army industrial facilities (Rock Island Arsenal, Watervliet Arsenal, Anniston Army Depot, Sierra Army Depot, Red River Army Depot) are available for partnering.
Respondents are also asked to recommend preferred agreement or contracting mechanisms.
The Problem
The Army's current ground combat vehicle industrial base cannot produce at the volume or speed required — bespoke facilities and legacy acquisition models don't scale to 2,500 vehicles per year.
This RFI signals a deliberate shift toward commercial-style, standardized production as the foundation for future ground combat vehicle programs.
The Path Forward
The USG may invite respondents to discuss submissions but is not committed to do so.
Responses will inform future acquisition strategies; no timeline for a follow-on solicitation is stated.
2) Private Capital Partnerships
U.S. Army | RFI | Response Due: 02 Apr 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Financial structures, operating models, and partnership frameworks that deploy private capital against six Army modernization pillars:
Energy resilience and independent power/storage
Organic Industrial Base expansion across 23 depots, arsenals, and ammo plants
Logistics and supply chain modernization, including autonomous logistics
Real asset utilization via Enhanced Use Leases for data centers, warehousing, and industrial parks on Army land
Advanced and flexible dual-use manufacturing (electronics, specialized materials, sUAS)
Critical minerals extraction and processing on Army property
Responses must propose commercially viable, self-sustaining models where the Army serves as anchor customer or co-investor — not as sole revenue source.
Each response should include a proposed pilot project with goals, timeline, and success metrics.
Appendix A enumerates 15+ specific project opportunities across OIB sites — rotary wing MRO, tank turret production restart, lithium exploration, data centers, sUAS manufacturing, circuit card production, and others.
The Problem
Appropriations alone cannot fund the Army’s modernization/infrastructure backlogs.
OIB snapshots show most installations operating below healthy workload ranges with declining demand projections through FY32, and several sites (CCAD, Tobyhanna) are not solvent.
Aging infrastructure, workforce gaps, and foreign supply chain dependencies compound the gap.
The Path Forward
Submit white papers addressing at least one investment pillar, covering capital structure, governance, contracting ideas (OTA, EUL, co-production), and speed to IOC/FOC.
Questions due 26 Mar 2026; responses may prompt follow-on discussions.
3) Drone-Emplaced C-UAS Sensors and Effectors
Army Research Laboratory | RFI | Response Due: Mar 25, 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Sensing solutions: must be capable of detecting, classifying, and tracking Group 1 to Group 3 . Mature, modular, low-SWaP, battery-powered, low-cost (< $3K per module in quantities of 10K+), with documented physical and electrical interfaces suitable for immediate integration. Solutions may be ground-based or suitable for operation on Class 1 UAS platforms.
Effector solutions: soft or hard-kill. Multi-kill solutions are preferred but not required. Solutions may be ground-based, battery-powered (preferred), suitable for integration into a Group 1 UAS, or a fully integrated counter-UAS drone with a documented wireless interface. Solutions must also be low cost (<$4K in quantities of 10K+).
The Problem
Likely: Current counter-UAS architectures lack affordable, remotely deployable sensor-effector packages that can be distributed at scale by unmanned systems.
This limits rapid, layered area defense against Group 1–3 drone threats in forward or contested environments.
The Path Forward
Government reserves discretion to compete or sole-source based on responses.
4) Common Autonomous Multidomain Launcher (CAML) Munitions Pallet (MP)
PAE Fires / RCCTO | Request for Solutions Brief | Response Due: 07 Apr 2026 (Tomahawk) / 15 Apr 2026 (All Others) | CAGE Code Due: 03 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Self-contained munitions pallets (MP). Four weapon-specific variants able to launch:
Tomahawk
PAC-3/MSE
IFPC AIM-9X
GMLRS/PrSM
The MP is one piece of the broader CAML system, which has two core elements:
CAML Follower: An Autonomous Mobility Platform (AMP) vehicle carrying a weapon-specific Munitions Pallet (MP).
AMP — the autonomous truck. Carries the pallet, can autonomously resupply pallets via an onboard Load Handling System with minimal to no human intervention or support vehicles. Designed to support pallets up to 60,000 lbs. Defines all vehicle-level interfaces — mechanical, electrical, power, autonomy, and load-handling — that the MP must conform to.
MP — the weapon pallet (this solicitation).
CAML Leader: A crewed convoy vehicle that directs one or more Followers via an autonomy C2 system.
Three separate OTA agreements cover the full effort:
Munitions Pallet (this solicitation)
AMP, Leader Vehicle, Autonomy C2, and MP Surrogate (single agreement) can be found - HERE
Weapon System Integrator (WSI) — integrates AMP and MP at the system level, can be found - HERE
Winners of each agreement are contractually bound to collaborate with the other primes via Associate Contractor Agreements (ACAs).
Full technical requirements are in a CUI PWS released only after facility clearance validation — not provided for this summary.
NOTE: Separate Request for Solutions Briefs for the AMP and
The Problem
Likely: Current Army launchers lack the mobility, survivability, and autonomous resupply speed needed for distributed multi-domain operations — driving demand for a rapidly deployable, multi-munition fires platform on a common autonomous chassis.
The Path Forward
Three-phase competition under 10 USC § 4022 (OTA):
Phase 1 — Solutions Brief (10 pages max), due 07 Apr 2026 (Tomahawk) / 15 Apr 2026 (all others)
Phase 2 — Oral pitch (in-person, up to 1-hr presentation + 30-min Q&A), expected 5–12 May 2026
Phase 3 — Request for Prototype Proposal
5) Industry Entry Point for Multi-Domain Experimentation Events (SPARX)
T2COM | Updated Special Notice / RFI | Response Due: Rolling (open through 14 Apr 2030) SAM.gov link
Update: Amended 24–25 Feb 2026 to reflect reorganization from AFC to T2COM and add explicit instruction not to submit proprietary information.
Seeking
Technology overview submissions from industry partners for potential inclusion in Army experimentation events.
Submissions must use the SPARX Technology Overview template and address technology description, TRL/IRL, military problem statement, concept of employment, integration requirements, safety concerns, and vendor learning objectives.
UAS submissions require country-of-origin disclosure for nine subsystems (flight controller, radio, camera, gimbal, ground control, software, networking, data storage, data transmission) — screening for components from China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran.
The Problem
Likely: The Army needs a single, persistent intake process to match industry technologies against its experimentation calendar across T2COM’s multi-domain modernization campaign.
SPARX standardizes submissions and routes them to event planners with an early technical assessment already attached.
The Path Forward
T2COM SMEs conduct an initial informal examination of each submission.
DEVCOM notifies submitters of any event alignment and forwards submissions to event planners when the event window opens.
If invited to an experiment, the event planner — not DEVCOM HQ — coordinates all participation requirements, which may include NDAs or proof of liability insurance.
Submissions accepted on a rolling basis; if an event window has closed for the fiscal year, submissions carry to the next.
6) Accelerated Clinical Trials for CBRN Medical Countermeasures (CADENCC)
CPE-CBRND-ET | Sources Sought | Response Due: 25 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
An Integrator to build and operate a multi-site clinical trial network for rapid development, testing, and evaluation of CBRN medical countermeasures through Phase 2.
The Integrator would serve as a central coordinating entity, managing subcontracts across the network to meet Government-directed objectives.
The RFI targets seven capability areas:
Clinical site network management (CONUS priority, OCONUS option) with concurrent trial capacity
Accelerated trial initiation using master protocols, adaptive platform designs, and streamlined regulatory engagement (FDA, IRBs, OHRO)
Decentralized data collection via digital health technologies and AI-enabled recruitment
Clinical evaluation across product modalities (biologics, small molecules, vaccines, devices) and administration routes (oral, subcutaneous, nasal, nebulized, intramuscular)
Quality assurance and monitoring aligned with international clinical trial standards and DoD quality requirements
Configuration management and program management support
The Problem
The CBRN threat landscape is diverse, dynamic, and regionally distinct — and current medical countermeasure development timelines cannot deliver at the speed CCMDs require.
The Path Forward
Responses (10-page limit, email submission) will inform a potential future solicitation.
Contract vehicle and funding not specified.
7) UAS Weapon Payload Interface
PM Close Combat Systems | Sources Sought | Response Due: 02 Mar 2026 | Industry Day: Summer 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Vendors with UAS lethal payload components — weapons release systems, fireset boxes, purpose-built munitions, or other modular modules — that are CLIK- or sUPI-compliant, on a path to compliance, or offering enhanced variants.
CLIK defines the mechanical (MIL-STD-1913 rail), electrical (28VDC, 19-pin connector), and protocol (serial + Ethernet/UDP) interface; sUPI is the lighter-weight variant for Group 1/2 platforms using battery voltage (13–25.2 vDC), USB, and GPIO.
The CLIK ecosystem currently supports PBAS, MRR, and LRR programs.
Respondents must provide capabilities statement, compliance status, ROM pricing for 1,000 units (FY26/FY27), and supply chain risk assessment including component scarcity and mitigation.
The Problem
Likely: The absence of a standardized platform-to-payload interface forces program-specific integration for each UAS/munition combination, slowing fielding against a stated 2027 battlefield superiority deadline.
The Army wants soldiers to swap payloads across platforms without reintegration — spanning anti-personnel, anti-materiel, anti-armor, obscuration, neutralization, and deception effects.
The Path Forward
Industry day planned Summer 2026 to share draft RFP.
Multiple awards may be pursued; all small business set-asides will be considered.
CLIK and sUPI TDPs are Distribution A and publicly available at ac.devcom.army.mil/picatinny-clik/.
8) Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3) Support Services
CPE STRI | Updated Sources Sought | Response Due: 03 Mar 2026 | SAM.giv link
Update: Page limit increased to 10 pages. Industry must now assess whether this requirement is commercial or non-commercial services.
Seeking
Small businesses to staff Instructor/Operators at Army Medical Simulation Training Centers (MSTC) worldwide — CONUS and OCONUS (Germany, Korea, Alaska, Hawaii).
Three core service areas:
Medical training instruction — 68W sustainment, TC3 all tiers, CLS — delivered via patient simulators, trauma lanes, and scenario-based exercises
Exercise planning, scenario development, AARs, and operator-level TADSS maintenance (-10 PMCS)
Program management with mandatory ACA against the W-TRS maintenance contract, due within 3 months of award
I/O qualifications: NREMT-EMT minimum, current BLS/ALS, plus one qualifying background — prior military medical MOS (68W, 18D, NEC 8404, or equivalent) or current RN/PA/physician licensure.
Each MSTC site must sustain at least 2,500 68W students annually. Prime must self-perform 51% minimum.
The Problem
Likely: Combat medic skills decay fast without standardized, hands-on refresher training.
TC3 and trauma care proficiency require credentialed instructors operating high-fidelity simulators continuously — across multiple MSTC sites worldwide.
The Path Forward
Responses shape a potential single-award IDIQ: 60-month ordering period, task orders structured as 1 base year plus 2–4 option years.
Set-aside and contract vehicle TBD pending market research results.
9) Man-Packable EW System with On-Board Compute
U.S. Army (CECOM) | CSO | Response Due: 20 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
A lightweight, man-packable CEMA system operable by a single soldier—threshold weight ≤20 lbs, objective ≤15 lbs.
The system must integrate on-board general-purpose and GPU compute, SDRs, FPGAs, ASICs, PNT, tactical radio comms, RF switching, storage, and networking into a modular form factor capable of operating in both unclassified and classified environments. Key capability requirements include:
Reprogrammable SDRs and FPGAs via CFE and/or Warped Alloy (GFS) frameworks, including forward reprogrammability without return to secure facilities
On-board AI/ML processing with GPU resources and mesh/cloud relay data backhaul compatible with NGC2 architecture
TAK-integrated GUI, OTA remote control of RF platforms, and compatibility with fielded Army IP-based comms platforms
The Problem
Likely: Current dismounted CEMA systems lack integrated compute and reliable data backhaul, forcing operators to rely on heavier, less flexible configurations that limit tactical-edge effectiveness.
The gap constrains the Army’s ability to execute advanced EW/cyber effects in contested, distributed operations where freedom of movement is critical.
The Path Forward
This CSO falls under the Army’s Open Solicitation (W9128Z-25-S-A002); submissions are accepted through the Vulcan platform.
Full announcement details, evaluation criteria, and submission requirements are hosted on Vulcan.
10) AI-Enabled Enterprise Task Management Platform (JETMS)
CPE Enterprise Software & Services (ES2) / AESMS | Updated Call for Solution (OT) | Response Due: 09 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Update (AMD 01, 24 Feb 2026): Gate Criterion 1 broadened — solutions operating on an IL5+ hosting platform with a credible path to rapid DoW ATO now qualify, in addition to solutions holding their own IL5+ ATO. This materially expands the eligible vendor pool.
Seeking
Commercially available, AI/ML-enhanced platform to replace both OSW’s CATMS and Army’s ETMS2 for enterprise correspondence and task management across the Department, Services, and 4th Estate. Core requirements:
Workflow routing and monitoring for tasks and correspondence
AI-driven task lifecycle automation (intake, classification, drafting, routing) with measurable man-hour reductions
Multi-tenant cloud architecture scaling to 150,000+ daily active users
ICAM/SSO integration (SAML/OIDC), M365 interoperability, open APIs
Government retains unlimited data rights with non-proprietary export capability
The Problem
Tasking is fragmented across legacy systems, email, and manual trackers, creating operational friction, extensive manual data entry, and no real-time visibility into enterprise workload and task status.
This hinders DoW’s ability to operate at the speed and scale required for modern, multi-domain operations.
The Path Forward
Three-phase down-select: Solution Brief (3-page white paper + ROM for 150,000 users), live pitch/demo, then Solution Proposal and RFP to remaining firms.
Three gate criteria must be met to enter evaluation: active IL5+ ATO or IL5+ hosting platform with credible path to rapid DoW ATO, demonstrated enterprise AI deployment experience, and scalable browser-based architecture.
Evaluation factors ranked: Speed to Delivery (highest), Technical Merit, Viability, Adoptability, Price (lowest).
Prototype OT under 10 U.S.C. § 4022 (non-FAR); successful prototype may lead to sole-source follow-on production across DoW—potentially at significantly larger scale.
Production ROM requested in addition to prototype ROM.
Government estimates ~4 weeks to review Solution Briefs; multiple awards possible or no award.
Chenega IT Enterprise Services (CITES) will serve as non-Government evaluator — offerors should pursue NDAs directly with CITES prior to submission.
SEC II - AIR FORCE / SPACE FORCE
11) Distributed Surge Manufacturing for Weapon Systems (Endless Forge)
AFRL Materials & Manufacturing Directorate (RX) | Open Period Solicitation (Two-Step) | White Papers Due: 19 Feb 2028 (rolling) | Industry Day: Late Mar 2026 (virtual, TBD) | SAM.gov link
Seeking
White papers across two AOIs for a platform-agnostic Manufacturing-as-a-Service (MaaS) capability — distributed production networks that can scale and reconfigure weapon systems at speed.
AOI 01 — Technology Sprints targeting digital thread enablers:
Model-based certification and analysis-led qualification to eliminate physical retest bottlenecks
Modular “plug-and-play” integration and factorial manufacturing for rapid hardware reconfiguration
IntelDevOps linking battlefield data to engineering sprints, with defined mathematical formulations required
Software-defined manufacturing and Physical AI for automated process planning and MaaS workflows
Secure data exchange (zero-trust, schema validation, semantic inferencing, uncertainty quantification)
Rapid low-cost engine/subsystem development; plus an open “Other” category for unlisted digital thread approaches
AOI 02 — Technology Demonstration across warfighting domains: attrition-tolerant sUAS/munitions/decoys, ACPs, space systems and ground support equipment, and high-speed affordable weapons.
Two-year gated effort with three demos (factory network, IntelDevOps-driven build, field demonstration).
KPPs include producibility timelines, cost, quality, rate, and modularity.
The Problem
Likely: Vertically integrated defense supply chains cannot surge production or reconfigure weapon systems fast enough for peer-conflict tempo.
Likely: Current design-to-field cycles, physical requalification requirements, and siloed data architectures create bottlenecks limiting the DAF’s ability to scale output or adapt systems to evolving battlefield conditions.
The Path Forward
Two-step process: white papers accepted rolling through 19 Feb 2028; proposals by invitation only.
$149M estimated across FY26–FY30, multiple awards anticipated, OT for Prototype and CPFF, ~36-month POP.
Unrestricted; no cost-share required; Unlimited Rights desired; DD Form 2345 required with proposal.
AOI 02 demo objectives are classified — appendix requests NLT 19 Nov 2027; may require TS/SCI.
Issued under parent MAA FA2394-24-R-B003.
Funds not presently available.
12) AI/ML Strategy Update and Mission Applications
SSC/S6 | Industry Day / RFI | Event: 24 Feb 2026, 0900–1500 PST (Virtual) | Response Due: 24 Feb 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Industry participation at a virtual industry day covering SSC <> CDAO data and AI vision, USSF CY26 strategic priorities, SSC program structure, System Delta mission and scope, and mission application of AI.
SSC/S6 is also collecting RFI responses on AI/ML capabilities for space, acquisition, and enterprise operations to inform a potential acquisition strategy.
No specific technical requirements, thresholds, or deliverables are defined.
The Problem
Likely: SSC/S6 is scoping the AI/ML vendor landscape and gauging industry capability before committing to an acquisition strategy for AI-enabled space and enterprise operations.
The Path Forward
Virtual event on 24 Feb 2026 via MS Teams; open to military, civilians, contractors, and industry stakeholders.
Registration required via forms.osi.apps.mil; no registration deadline stated.
Responses may inform one or more future solicitations, with requirements to be finalized in a potential future RFP.
13) Self-Forming Airborne Networks & Tactical Mesh Connectivity
AFRL Information Directorate (Rome) | Updated Open BAA | White Papers Suggested: 15 Sep 2026 | BAA Closes: 30 Sep 2027 | SAM.gov link
Update: Amendment 10 (20 Feb 2026) republishes and consolidates all prior amendments. No changes to technical scope, funding, or focus areas. Key administrative changes: updated provisions, revised proposal formatting references (BAA Guide JAN 2025 / RI Instructions APR 2025), deletion of the 15% indirect cost cap on university assistance awards, and updated DFARS clauses for data rights and third-party software.
Seeking
Originally published in February 2023 as a follow-on to BAA FA8750-19-S-7001, this approximately $99.5M open BAA seeks white papers for applied research across four focus areas:
Airborne network management and monitoring — autonomic, self-healing capabilities including SDN/NFV for multi-TDL environments
Robust airborne networking — next-gen mesh waveforms, apertures, and ad-hoc tactical edge technologies for contested, degraded, and operationally limited (CDO) environments
Demonstrable aerial layer network technologies — proof-of-concept demos leveraging AFRL Rome infrastructure
Modular ground-to-air AESA tracking systems — analog beamforming RFICs, electronic tracking algorithms, small form-factor RF hardware for SDR integration
Funding is $19.9M/FY across FY23–FY27. Individual awards typically $1M–$10M over ≤36 months, with potential for awards up to $49.5M.
Evaluation weighted in descending order: scientific/technical merit, related experience, solution openness/maturity/assurance, then cost reasonableness.
The Problem
Current aerial layer networking requires significant pre-planning, has limited interoperability, and lacks adequate management tools for today’s multi-link environment.
The Air Force needs a path from this fragmented state to dynamic, ad-hoc, mission-aware networking that operates reliably across contested airborne environments.
The Path Forward
Two-step process: submit a 3–5 page white paper to the TPOC (not the Contracting Officer); proposals by invitation only.
15 Sep 2026 is the suggested submission date for FY27 funding alignment — white papers accepted through 30 Sep 2027, though later submissions are less likely to find available funding.
Award instruments include FAR contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and OTs, with a stated follow-on production pathway for successful OT prototypes.
Closed to foreign participation except for fundamental research and FOCI-mitigated entities.
14) Air Operations Center (AOC) C2 Modernization
PAE C3BM | Sources Sought | Response Due: 20 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
A full-service systems integrator for the modernization of the AOC Weapon System.
The AOC is the senior C2 element for the Joint Force Air Component Commander, responsible for planning, executing, and assessing air, space, and cyberspace operations.
The Problem
Likely: Current AOC architecture cannot absorb modern C2 capabilities at the pace multi-domain operations demand.
Emphasis on nontraditional contractors and OTA pathways signals interest in accelerating delivery outside traditional program timelines.
The Path Forward
White paper (PDF, 30 pages max) due 20 Mar 2026 via email or DoD SAFE.
Controlled attachments require a signed Disclaimer Form (Attachment 1) and valid JCP Certificate.
The Government may invite respondents for follow-on exchanges or demonstrations but is not obligated to do so.
15) Radar Sensor Data Integration and Sustainment for CENTCOM AOR
9th Air Force (AFCENT) A6 | Sources Sought | Response Due: 18 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Full-lifecycle support services spanning:
Design, engineering, and integration of radar data feeds (AN/GPN-27, AN/TPS-75, AN/FPS-117, AN/TPS-77, TDX-2000/BDX-2000, and others) to the BC3-T and ATC facilities
Optimization of ATC radar systems for FAA Flight Check certification
24/7 remote monitoring via contractor-furnished, CORA-compliant SIPRNet enclave
On-site training, sustainment, and logistics support including equipment procurement
Site surveys and integration at OCONUS locations including Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE
The Problem
Likely: Maintaining continuous sensor feeds across vas AOR — with diverse radar types, austere locations, and 24/7 operational tempo — demands specialized integration and sustainment expertise not resident in organic forces.
The Path Forward
Responses (via attached Excel workbook) inform a potential future competitive procurement; PWS filename indicates a recompete.
Gating eligibility and staffing requirements:
U.S. company with Secret facility clearance prior to solicitation close; all personnel U.S. citizens, minimum Secret clearance
Key personnel: Contract Program Manager, Project Manager, Lead Engineer; plus four intermediate-level DCWF roles (ISSM 722, Sys Admin 451, SCA 612, Net Ops 441) per DoD 8140
Entire contract designated mission-essential — 30-day continuity plan and 72-hour OCONUS personnel replacement capability required
16) Tactical-Edge Cross-Domain Networking
AFRL Information Directorate (Rome, NY) | Updated BAA | White Papers Accepted Through: 14 Feb 2029 | SAM.gov link
Update: Amendment 9 (20 Feb 2026) republishes the BAA incorporating all prior amendments. Updated provisions, proposal formatting, and debriefing language; removed 15% indirect cost cap on university assistance awards. Core technical requirements unchanged.
Seeking
Originally published Feb 2024, this five-year open BAA seeks software-defined technologies enabling secure, dynamic information sharing across security domains and red/black boundaries at the tactical edge (air, space, ground). Three technical areas defined:
TA 1 – Next Gen CDS Broker: Discoverable, reconfigurable broker overlaying NCDSMO-baseline CDSs—not a new guard—meeting tactical latency/throughput at scale.
TA 2 – Highly Dynamic Red/Black Networking: Message-oriented resilient forwarding across red/black boundaries with mission-aware prioritization and dynamic route optimization.
TA 3 – MS&A Testbed: Non-proprietary multi-vendor testbed (AFSIM, EMANE, CORE, TNM preferred) integrating TA 1 & 2 digital models for end-to-end mission performance analysis. Hosted at AFRL Rome.
Deliverables include reference hardware (3U VPX tactical form factor), reference software, digital models, ICDs, and LBSA documentation. Solutions must be OMS-compliant with unlimited data rights.
Target: TRL 5 (Phase 1) → TRL 6 operationally relevant demo (Phase 2).
The Problem
Current tactical networks cannot move mission-critical data across security domains without enterprise reach-back, and encryptors are limited to static, manually configured topologies.
This blocks the kill-chain-to-kill-web transition required for JADC2 in DDIL environments.
The Path Forward
~$70M BAA ceiling (FY24–FY27). Seven awards anticipated for TA 1–3 (3 + 3 + 1); per-award sizing ~$5M–$5.5M for TA 1/TA 2, ~$27.5M for the single TA 3 award.
Preferred TA 1–3 white paper deadlines passed Feb 2024—late submissions accepted with reduced funding likelihood. Additional technical areas expected via future amendments.
Three phases with decision gates: Phase 0 (9 mo), Phase 1 (12 mo), Phase 2 (15 mo). FAR contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and OTs available; OT prototypes may transition to follow-on production.
Closed to foreign participation (limited exceptions).
May require SECRET/TOP SECRET facility clearance. Funds not presently available; no award until funded.
17) Multi-Domain R&D Enterprise Solicitation Framework (Draft for Comment)
AFRL | Draft CSO (Special Notice) | Feedback Due: 13 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Feedback on a draft CSO.
Once finalized, will serve as AFRL's single standing framework for issuing competitive Spiral solicitations across the enterprise.
Scope covers four domains — Air, Space, Cyberspace/EW, and Cross-Domain — spanning 56 technology sub-areas including hypersonics, DE, quantum, AI, advanced materials, and APNT.
The Problem
Likely: AFRL is replacing per-directorate solicitations with one enterprise-wide commercial acquisition instrument.
Likely: The Spiral architecture — centralized or decentralized, one-step or two-step, FAR Part 12 fixed-price or OTP — is built to pull commercial and non-traditional solutions into AFRL’s pipeline faster.
The Path Forward
Selected Q&A will post to SAM.gov with the final CSO.
Once finalized, the CSO stays open indefinitely.
Individual Spirals will define specific requirements, deadlines, and evaluation criteria as they release.
Foreign participation excluded.
OTP eligibility requires at least one of: nontraditional defense contractor participation, all-small-business teams, minimum one-third non-federal cost share, or a Senior Procurement Executive exceptional-circumstances determination.
SEC III - Navy / USMC
18) Consortium Management Firm for Littoral Warfare and Coastal Defense Capabilities
NSWC Panama City Division | RFI | Response Due: 13 Mar 2026 | Questions Due: 6 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
A single consortium management firm that will own the full OTA lifecycle:
Recruit and manage a diverse membership base
Issue project solicitations, run proposal evaluation
Execute project-level awards and financial reporting
The consortium — branded SLAM2ER — spans 14 technical areas across NSWC PCD’s core mission set:
C5ISRT, radio/comms, RAS/CRAS, cyber, materials/manufacturing, M&S/T&E, warfare/mission areas (MIW, SSW, EOD, expeditionary, asymmetric, spectrum), oceanography, HSI, logistics, diving/life support, platform design and survivability, UPNT, AI/ML, and corporate operations
The Problem
Likely: NSWC PCD lacks a streamlined acquisition pathway to engage non-traditional contractors across its broad littoral and undersea warfare portfolio.
Standard contracting vehicles do not offer the speed or flexibility needed to solicit, prototype, and transition technologies spanning mine warfare through autonomous systems at the pace the fleet requires.
The Path Forward
White paper submissions (10 pages max) must demonstrate consortium management experience, OTA administration capability, non-traditional outreach strategy, fee structure rationale, and facility clearance status.
Projects under the eventual OTA are anticipated up to TS-SCI, though the CM itself will not require access to classified information.
Responses will inform a future competitive RFP issued via a separate SAM.gov announcement.
19) sUAS Architecture Standardization and Cybersecurity
NAWCAD WOLF SAIW Division | RFO | Response Due: 01 Apr 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
sUAS Reusable Architecture (SRA) effort / four task areas:
Systems engineering and evaluation — requirements analysis, Reference Implementation Prototype development, architecture diagrams, documentation maintenance, and a web-based SRA compliance portal with container registry and SBOM tracking.
Cybersecurity engineering — RMF assessment and authorization (ATO/IATT/ATC), STIG and vulnerability assessments, continuous patching of baseline SRA software, and Program Protection Plan activities.
Technical project management — stakeholder coordination, scheduling (WBS/IMS/POA&M), and project scoping.
Life cycle support — configuration management under the FoSUAS TRB/CCB, SITL/HITL test environments, industry collaboration for SRA integration, modification of fielded SUAS for SRA compliance, and TALSA coordination including AI/ML data backhaul from RSTA payloads.
The Problem
Likely: The Navy’s Family of Small UAS lacks standardized interfaces and a common cybersecurity baseline, creating interoperability gaps, duplicative integration efforts, and ATO friction across the FoSUAS portfolio.
SRA addresses this through baseline hardware/software architecture decomposed into functional components via ICDs, reference implementations, and DoD-hardened open-source software.
The Path Forward
Single TO award, cost-reimbursable, SB set-aside under SeaPort-NxG fair opportunity — must hold a SeaPort-NxG MAC to compete.
Base year plus four option years; minimum fully burdened labor floor of $8,945,801 (excluding ODCs).
Proposals due 01 Apr 2026 via PIEE — two volumes: Technical (key personnel + sample task) and Cost/Price. Incumbent: Render Security Engineering, LLC (no subcontractors).
20) Cyber, AI, and Network Prototyping Consortium for Naval Surface Warfare
NSWC Corona Division | Updated OTA RFP | Response Due: 02 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Update: Amendment 1 (20 Feb 2026) provides Q&A responses. Government estimates ~25 projects totaling $30M in year one. No changes to deadline, requirements, or evaluation criteria.
Seeking
Help translating complex Naval R&D program data into clear narratives, strategies, and visual products for senior leadership.
Covers the full NIWC Atlantic RDT&E portfolio under the Battlespace C2 focus area.
Audiences: DON/DOW leadership, Fleet operators, Congressional authorizers and appropriators, and industry partners.
Required outcomes: stakeholder alignment, communication campaigns with measurable effectiveness, and consistent branding and content.
Must operate across multiple classification levels.
Offerors must address four areas in their submission:
Repeatable methodology for strategy and communications work
Approach for applying that methodology to NIWC Atlantic
Corporate toolkit of modular services and deliverables
Relevant experience with problems of similar scope and complexity
Preference may be given to companies with a track record of fielding similar solutions.
The Problem
NIWC Atlantic’s technical portfolio lacks a common operational picture to convey project value, risk, and ROI across a fragmented stakeholder set.
Traditional government communication methods cannot convey the nuance and urgency of the mission.
The resulting gaps create budgetary uncertainty, delay the fielding of critical warfighting capabilities, and degrade mission readiness.
The Path Forward
Solution briefs due 26 Feb 2026 via email.
Submissions must include prime contractor CAGE code and demonstrate nontraditional defense contractor participation — either a named teaming partner with CAGE code or an explicit cost-share commitment.
Down-select leads to a virtual pitch anticipated 17 Mar 2026, where offerors present sample artifacts including strategy examples, communication plans, capability briefings, brand concepts, and 24-month roadmaps.
Top Secret facility clearance with SCI eligibility required at time of submission; CMMC Level 1 self-certification minimum.
Prototype agreement may lead to a direct follow-on production award without further competition. DD254 included is for solicitation purposes only; prime DD254 will be issued at award.
21) Capacity as A Service (CaaS) for Data Centers
MCICOM G-6 (ISB) | Updated Sources Sought | Response Due: 18 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Update: Revised PWS and industry Q&A (15 questions) published 2 Mar 2026. Deadline extended from 16 Jan to 18 Mar 2026. Q&A defines strict “or equal” interoperability requirements tied to the Cisco, NetApp, F5, and Dell incumbent stack — proposals deviating from incumbent OEMs must demonstrate functional equivalence at the API and protocol level. RFP/RFQ anticipated 30–60 days after RFI close.
Seeking
Small business vendors capable of delivering on-premise, contractor-owned bare-metal compute, storage, and networking hardware to two Government data centers under a CaaS model.
Hardware remains contractor/OEM property; all data-bearing media becomes Government property.
The Problem
ISB is modernizing under DCOI mandates to reduce footprint, cut costs, and improve cybersecurity.
Current infrastructure is previous-generation Dell, NetApp, Cisco, and F5 — incumbent BOM provided for benchmarking.
Likely: CaaS shifts hardware lifecycle burden to the contractor while the Government retains full operational control of the software stack, data migration, and backup/DR.
The Path Forward
RFP/RFQ anticipated 30–60 days after close.
Structure: 1-year base + 4 option years, O&M funded, unit-based FFP with catalog-discount model for future orders.
22) Multi-Sensor Data Fusion Correlator for Counter-UAS (SENSEI)
NSWC Crane Division | RFI (Special Notice) | Response Due: Mar 20, 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Software that takes tracks from diverse sensors and merges them into a single, unified picture across air, ground, surface, and undersea domains.
Must handle varying sample rates, position accuracy, and data formats across sources.
Solutions must be standalone—products dependent on or inseparable from C2 functionality will not meet the objective. Responses must address:
Fusion level per the JDL Data Fusion Model
Fielded use cases and operational deployments
Latency and error performance
Swarm-scale track handling
Integration architecture and hardware requirements
Headless operation and configuration method
Respondents must indicate CMMC Level 1 or higher certification status.
The Problem
SENSEI is a multi-sensor, multi-domain C-UxS system protecting Navy/DoD critical infrastructure.
It pulls data from a wide range of sensors, but each has gaps—accuracy limits, noise, clutter, conflicting reads.
Without a correlator to reconcile those inputs, the system struggles to reliably detect, track, and defeat small unmanned threats.
The Path Forward
Not responding does not preclude participation in any future RFS.
Responses inform a potential multi-award RFS under the EMC² OTA per 10 U.S.C. § 4022. Selected products will undergo benchtop black-box evaluation against a common simulated data set; may include vendor support.
Results may lead to further development.
EMC² consortium membership required to view any future RFS—register at emccrane.org.
23) Common Controller for Multi-Platform UAS Operations (UCC)
PMA-263 (PEO U&W) | Sources Sought | Response Due: 23 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Portable, ruggedized, open-architecture ground control system capable of operating multiple type/model/series UAS from different manufacturers simultaneously, designed for dismounted Marines at the tactical edge. Core capability areas:
Cross-platform interoperability using open standards (STANAG 4586, MAVLink, NATO profiles) and integration with higher-echelon C2 networks and ATAK-based applications
Multi-aircraft control including one-to-many tasking, simultaneous operations, or swarm coordination
Cyber-resilient, MOSA-compliant design with field-replaceable modules (radios, displays, batteries) and no OEM dependency for maintenance
AI/ML-enabled autonomy integration and scalable architecture supporting future UAS and cross-domain (air/ground) control
Compliance with NDAA Sections 848/817, the American Security Drone Act (Sec. 1821), and TAA requirements
Respondents must also address production scalability at 50–1,000 unit quantities, unit pricing, MTBF data, operator staffing ratios for 2–5 aircraft with EO/IR payloads, and solution architecture type (hardware-centric, software-centric, or hybrid).
The Problem
Likely: The Marine Corps operates multiple small UAS from different manufacturers, each requiring its own proprietary ground control station.
This creates logistics burden, training overhead, and interoperability gaps at the tactical edge — particularly as the UAS fleet diversifies.
The Path Forward
Responses will inform the Marine Corps’ understanding of industrial base maturity and may lead to follow-on demonstration invitations for select vendors.
A Q&A tracker has been updated as of 02 March 2026, signaling active industry engagement.
Submit a capability white paper (10-page limit, appendices permitted) via email by 23 Mar 2026.
24) Airborne EW Systems Repair, Engineering & Depot Logistics
NSWC Crane (NAVSEA) | Solicitation | Response Due: 23 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Engineering, technical, logistics, and programmatic support for depot-level sustainment of airborne EW systems, subsystems, and components — primarily within the Airborne Electronic Attack Systems Division (AEASD).
Core requirements span five areas:
Depot repair and refurbishment — troubleshooting, component-level repair, coatings/corrosion control, composite/radome fabrication, machining, welding, and CASS Family of Tester maintenance.
Engineering services — TPS development and lifecycle sustainment, reverse engineering, manufacturing engineering, root cause analysis, prototyping/fabrication, TDP lifecycle management, and RM&A support.
Test and evaluation — system/subsystem testing, test data analysis, test plan development, and report preparation at NSWC Crane and other CONUS sites.
Program management — QA, configuration management, financial/status reporting (22 CDRLs), data management, training, and organizational assessments. Structured as a performance-based acquisition with a QASP.
Logistics and supply — provisioning, warehousing, PHS&T, obsolescence management, inventory accountability, and demilitarization/disposal support per DoDM 4160.28.
Personnel require SECRET clearances, U.S. citizenship, and extensive trade certifications (IPC/2M solder, Abaris composites Phases I–III, AMPP coatings, AWS welding, CASS calibration, among others).
The contractor bears sole ITAR responsibility for any required State Department approvals, licenses, and TAAs.
A significant portion of labor must be performed within 50 miles of NSWC Crane due to integrated government-contractor operations and access to government equipment.
Full technical background is contained in the CUI-controlled SOW Addendum (Distro D) — not provided for this summary.
The Problem
Likely: Sustaining fleet readiness of airborne EW platforms depends on specialized depot capacity for repair, engineering, and logistics that NSWC Crane cannot fully resource organically.
This is a re-compete of incumbent task orders N0016419F3010 and N0016423F3008, with three prior market research actions conducted between November 2024 and July 2025.
The Path Forward
CPFF task order competed unrestricted among SeaPort-NxG MAC holders under FAR 16.505.
Base period of one year plus four one-year options (five years total).
Proposals must be submitted through the PIEE Solicitation Module — not SAM.gov directly.
Controlled attachments require SAM and JCP registration; questions are due within 15 calendar days of solicitation release.
If awarded to a non-incumbent, a 60-day phase-in period applies.
25) Satellite Ground Station Ops and Spacecraft C2 Support
Naval Center for Space Technology (NCST) | Sources Sought | Response Due: 06 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Operations and engineering support for NRL’s Blossom Point Satellite Command and Tracking Facility (BPTF) across five core areas:
Spacecraft command and control, operations monitoring, and orbital maintenance — primarily through NRL’s proprietary Neptune® ground architecture
RF engineering and maintenance for 10+ antenna systems (S/L/X/Ka/UHF/USB bands) and 50+ digital/IF processing systems
Ground system hardware and software sustainment, integration, and upgrade engineering
IT and cybersecurity across 20+ servers, 50+ workstations, and multiple VMware clusters supporting classified and unclassified networks
Software and application engineering for Neptune® and mission-unique applications
The Problem
Likely: BPTF is the operational backbone for NRL spacecraft programs across the full satellite lifecycle — from integration and test through on-orbit operations and end-of-lif The facility depends on a proprietary ground architecture and deeply integrated institutional knowledge — capabilities that cannot lapse between contract vehicles.
The Path Forward
Responses may inform a small business set-aside decision for a future solicitation.
Anticipated vehicle is a 5-year IDIQ (1 base + 4 option years) with CPFF task orders — a partial follow-on to IDIQ N00173-21-D-2001 / TO N00173-21-F-2006.
Responses limited to 5 pages via email.
Key constraints: facility clearance expected, TS/SCI for designated roles, U.S. citizens only (no dual citizenship), daily onsite presence at Blossom Point, MD.
Key roles at award: Program Manager, Systems Engineer, Facilities Manager, Security Manager.
SEC IV - DARPA
26) Cardiovascular Digital Twin
BTO | Special Notice (Future Program) | Response Due: N/A — No submissions accepted | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Continuously updating digital twins of a patient's cardiovascular system.
These models combine medical imaging (MRI, CT, CTA, ultrasound) with live sensor data and biological physics to predict outcomes in real time across stable, chronic, and acute conditions.
A core element is an automated pipeline that converts clinical images into physics-based, patient-specific models—including 3D injury-site simulations and whole-body blood flow models.
The Problem
Likely: Clinicians managing acute and chronic cardiovascular conditions lack predictive tools grounded in biological cause-and-effect that can update continuously from live patient sensors.
The most accurate models are too slow for real-time use, and faster simplified versions sacrifice the biological fidelity needed for trustworthy clinical decisions—VITAL aims to bridge that gap.
The Path Forward
Two-phase program: Phase 1 builds and benchmarks HF cardiovascular models and quantifies performance limits; Phase 2 evaluates HF-to-ROM transitions for scalability, real-time execution, and intervention forecasting.
DARPA strongly encourages teaming.
Email VITAL@darpa.mil to join the blast list for Proposers Day and solicitation release updates.
27) Quantitative Geoeconomic Theory for U.S. Economic Statecraft (NASCENT)
Information Innovation Office | Program Solicitation (OT) | Abstracts Due: 12 Mar 2026 | Oral Presentations: ~27 Apr 2026 (by invitation) | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Foundational theory for a geoeconomic statecraft toolbox — a body of science that lets practitioners start from a national security objective and work backward to design the economic structures needed to achieve it.
Those structures — new markets, contracts, information streams, organizations — must be positive-sum: generating real economic value for private participants, not just imposing costs on adversaries.
DARPA is funding the science, not buying a finished product.
Theory must be quantitative, generic (apply across many mechanism types at low marginal cost), and reducible to algorithms.
Out-of-scope: policy recommendations, country-specific playbooks, minor tweaks to existing structures, one-off mechanism designs.
Deliverables: research papers, algorithmic representations, and source code or implementation plans.
The Problem
U.S. economic statecraft today works forward from existing economic structures and hopes for good outcomes — at best suboptimal and expensive, at worst generating unintended consequences.
Available tools are either too narrow (entity-level sanctions) or too blunt (nation-level embargoes).
No rigorous, quantitative framework exists to connect national security objectives to the economic conditions required to achieve them.
Academic work in the space remains qualitative and built on unrealistic assumptions.
The Path Forward
Two phases under OT authority:
Phase 1 (~4 months): Performers jointly build a shared framework and common vocabulary for geoeconomic analysis. If this fails, the program ends.
Phase 2 (~24 months): Research sprints of ~8 months each, ~3 per performer. A separate T&E team (not solicited here) evaluates results through analytical review, experimental wargames, and executive tabletop exercises. Miss the 12-month delivery deadline on any sprint — removed from program. Exceed expectations — earn more topics (up to 8 over 2 years).
Multiple awards expected. FFRDCs, UARCs, National Labs, and other government entities not eligible.
28) Revolutionary R&D for Rapid Design, Surge Production, Long-Range Effects, and Disruptive Tech
TTO | Updated BAA | Executive Summaries Due: 17 Apr 2026 | Invited Full Proposals Due Due: 22 Jun 2026 | SAM.gov link
Original BAA posted 23 Jun 2025. Amendments 01 (23 Jan 2026) and 02 (10 Feb 2026) restructure the submission pathway and add Executive Summary evaluation criteria. (See Path Forward for details.)
Seeking
Revolutionary research across four focus areas:
Design/Build/Buy — Compress timelines from delivery to full military utility through new approaches to system design, fabrication, and test.
Surge and Sustain — Enable rapid, high-volume replenishment of existing systems: lower-cost manufacturing, adaptive production, supply chain diversification, and conversion of commercial capacity.
Long Range Effects — Deliver decisive effects at tactical-to-strategic range within A2/AD environments through extended range, persistent presence, and legacy platform reconfiguration.
Disruptive Innovation — Change the battlefield calculus through mass autonomy, decoy/deception, new sensing modalities, or degradation of adversary readiness.
Evolutionary improvements are explicitly excluded.
The Problem
Likely: The industrial base cannot surge fast enough to sustain force structures in extended conflict.
A2/AD threats constrain access at range, and current acquisition timelines lag the speed and scale the operating environment demands.
The Path Forward
Submission process:
DARPA now screens Executive Summaries before accepting Full Proposals (per Amendment 01).
Only proposers receiving a signed “Encourage Full Proposal” letter may submit a Full Proposal.
DARPA evaluates Executive Summaries against focus area-specific criteria covering quantitative demonstration scale, production startup velocity, countermeasure robustness, and disruption analysis (per Amendment 02).
DARPA targets 45-day Executive Summary turnaround and 60-day proposal decisions.
Award structure:
Multiple awards anticipated via procurement contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or OTs.
Funding/ceiling not specified.
29) Lab-Grown Biological Computers for Ultra-Low-Power Edge AI and Drone Navigation (O-CIRCUIT)
BTO | Special Notice (Future Program) | Response Due: 31 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
For context: a fruit fly brain contains roughly 140,000 neurons and consumes less than 6 mWh/day — a power-efficiency benchmark no conventional processor approaches.
DARPA wants to replicate that principle in the lab — engineering small clusters of living cells (neurons, glial cells, immune cells) into biological processors capable of learning and inference at biological-scale energy consumption. Two challenge tracks:
Track 1 (”Architecture”): Build a cell-based processor that learns to play a video game (e.g., Ms. Pac-Man) at near-human proficiency, retains that proficiency across days, and operates on power comparable to natural neural tissue.
Track 2 (”Action”): Build a biological odor-sensing system integrated into one of these processors, mount it on a drone, and demonstrate autonomous navigation toward a chemical target — accurately detecting tens of distinct odorants within a limited time window.
Teams may address one or both tracks.
The Problem
AI training and inference at the tactical edge consume significant power, limiting operational endurance, compute capacity, and data transfer latency.
Likely: conventional hardware cannot approach the energy efficiency of biological neural systems — a gap that restricts what is possible in power-constrained environments.
The Path Forward
If solicited, the program spans 42 months: Phase 1 (18 months), optional Phase 2 (12 months), optional Phase 3 (12 months), each concluding with an open capability demonstration.
The final demonstration requires a lab-grown biological computer integrated into a drone, navigating a complex chemical environment.
Email O-CIRCUIT@darpa.mil to receive Proposers’ Day and solicitation release notifications.
30) AI Cyber Security (TOP SECRET//SAP) Program
I2O | Program Solicitation (OT) | Response Due: 15 May 2026 | Proposers Day: 16–17 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Proposals addressing cyber security, AI models, and AI hardware under a classified SAP program.
Program name = Bordeaux
Full technical requirements are in the TS//SAP classified addendum—not provided for this summary.
The unclassified solicitation describes the program as researching “cyber security performance in AI” but defers all technical specifics to the addendum.
The Problem
Likely: Current approaches may not adequately assure AI system performance under adversarial conditions as DoD adoption scales.
The Path Forward
36-month program: 3-month security startup, Phase 1 (18-month base), Phase 2 (18-month base expansion), plus a 12-month Transition Phase estimate for planning and budgeting purposes only.
U.S. entities only; UARCs/FFRDCs strongly discouraged; concurrent SETA/A&AS support contractors barred from performing as technical performers absent a written DARPA Deputy Director waiver.
Government seeks GPR or unlimited rights on deliverables.
31) Energy Storage Without Rigid Packaging (Promethean Clay)
DARPA MTO | Program Solicitation (OT), as amended | Abstract Due: 25 Mar 2026 | Proposals Due: 06 May 2026 | Oral Presentations: 18–29 May 2026 | SAM.gov link
Update (Amendment 01, 27 Feb 2026): Abstract deadline extended from 11 Mar to 25 Mar. Proposal deadline extended from 22 Apr to 06 May. POP start moved from Aug to Nov 2026.
Seeking
Completely redesigned energy storage systems that work without the rigid metal shells used today.
Current devices rely on heavy structural packaging to compress and isolate reactive materials — this program requires designs where internally bonded materials stay mechanically and chemically stable without that external pressure.
Performance targets escalate across three phases:
Phase 1 (24 mo): 150 Wh/kg, 300 Wh/L, design for ≤15% inactive mass, 10 cycles, safety testing at component level
Phase 2 (12 mo): same energy density, ≤20% inactive mass, 100 cycles, 0–45 °C operating range, deliver 5 devices for government testing
Phase 3 (12 mo): 195 Wh/kg, 390 Wh/L, ≤15% inactive mass, 1,000 cycles, -55–85 °C operating range, deliver 5 more devices
All devices must be non-flammable (LOI > 26%), exceed 2 V, achieve ≥ 99.9% coulombic efficiency, and use only domestically sourced materials.
Proposals focused on single-component improvements, new chemistries alone, or incremental gains are explicitly excluded.
The Problem
Military platforms — hybrid-electric tactical vehicles, drones, undersea vehicles, directed energy systems — depend on energy storage technologies that have improved only incrementally.
Rigid metal packaging currently performs essential functions (pressure, isolation, protection), but it adds substantial inactive mass that constrains energy density and locks designs into fixed form factors.
Industry workarounds like bigger cells and thicker electrodes deliver marginal gains without addressing the root architectural constraint.
The Path Forward
Abstracts (required gate) due 25 Mar 2026 — only invited proposers may submit full proposals by 06 May 2026.
Q&A and Intent to Propose cutoff: 22 Apr 2026. 30-minute virtual oral presentations with 45-minute Q&A sessions during 18–29 May 2026.
48-month program: 3-month security setup, then 24/12/12-month technical phases with government testing and down-selects at each boundary.
SEC V - OTHER OSD / JOINT
32) WMD Defeat & Operational Advisory Services (RADAR)
DTRA Combat Support Directorate | Sources Sought | Response Due: 06 Mar 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Capability statements from vendors—with emphasis on small business participation—able to provide professional services across four task areas:
Program management and contract oversight
CWMD operations support including pathway/device defeat, DBHT planning, irregular warfare, MILDEC, sensitive activities integration, and forward-deployed advisory
Global engagements coordination with CCMDs, interagency, and foreign partners
Contingency operations including facility management, logistics, uncrewed systems, CBRN sensor integration, additive manufacturing, and COMSEC support
Respondents must hold a TOP SECRET//SCI facility clearance.
DTRA anticipates government space constraints — contractors must demonstrate ability to provide or establish SCIF space within reasonable proximity to DTRA headquarters or key mission partner locations.
The Problem
Likely: Current CWMD advisory and operational support is split across two contracts—Decisive Action (CACI NSS) and Diamond Harbor (ARA)—with legacy JIDO requirements no longer aligned to DTRA’s mission.
This consolidation aims to streamline support to the CZ Directorate under a single follow-on vehicle while removing obsolete scope.
The Path Forward
Responses (max 5 pages) covering company info, past performance, and facility capabilities are due 06 Mar 2026 via email.
A cost-type contract award is projected for Q1 FY27 with a 12-month base period and four 12-month options.
Set-aside determination pending this market research.
33) University R&D for Geopositioning and Mapping (MUSE 2)
NGA | Updated BAA — Topic Call | Abstracts Due: 26 Mar 2026 | Proposals Due: 4 May 2026 | SAM.gov link
Update: Topic 6 (MUSE 2) posted 25 Feb 2026 under the standing BIG-ST BAA (HM047623BAA0001, open since Dec 2023). All prior topics closed or canceled.
Seeking
Grants for U.S. universities to rebuild research capacity and train students in two subject areas — each requiring a separate submission:
Geodesy — measuring and modeling Earth’s shape, gravity, and magnetic fields. Focus areas: gravity and geoid modeling, magnetic field modeling, or ocean-based data collection.
Geomatics — collecting and processing spatial data about Earth’s surface. Focus areas: 3D geospatial and photogrammetry, multi-sensor 3D scene reconstruction, or radar-based terrain monitoring (InSAR).
TRL 1–6. $25M total budget. Individual awards: $1.0M for a 24-month base, plus three 12-month options at $0.5M each.
Grants only, no fee.
Proposals must show substantial student involvement with headcounts per activity.
The Problem
U.S. university research in geodesy and geomatics is shrinking — fewer studies, fewer students, fewer graduates entering the field.
The downstream effect: agencies like NGA cannot hire the people they need, even as demand grows.
Over 4 billion people rely on GPS daily.
The Path Forward
Questions due 9 Mar 2026; answers posted 16 Mar.
Abstracts due 26 Mar — expected as a prerequisite for proposal eligibility per the General Solicitation process. Proposals due 4 May 2026.
Work starts approximately 12 Aug 2026, running up to 5 years total. Unclassified.
No clearance required.
Universities with no prior work in these fields are encouraged to apply.
34) Counterintelligence Data Fusion & Analytics Platform (SaaS)
DCSA | Sources Sought / Industry Day | Response Due: Mar 06, 2026 | Event: Mar 11, 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Vendor-hosted SaaS solution delivering an enterprise CI analytical system for the DoW. Core requirements span four capability areas:
Unified data fusion environment ingesting structured and unstructured data (intelligence reports, financial records, travel logs, SIGINT) into an entity-centric model with federated search and integrated relational, temporal, geospatial, and network analysis.
End-to-end intelligence workflow — collaborative workspaces, standardized product templates, routing, dissemination, and enterprise knowledge management.
AI/ML-driven analytics for anomaly detection, threat prediction, investigative lead generation, and link analysis/visualization of FIE networks.
Dual-enclave architecture accredited at IL5 (CUI) and IL6 (SECRET) with a government-approved one-way CDS transferring data from IL5 to IL6 within ten minutes.
Must support up to 15,000 total users and 500 concurrent. Initial storage estimated at ~800TB with 60-month retention and 99.9% availability. COTS or GOTS solutions preferred. NAICS 513210 · PSC DA10.
The Problem
Likely: DCSA CI analysts and special agents operate across disparate, stovepiped data sources that slow threat detection and prevent enterprise-wide correlation of FIE and insider threat activity.
The current tooling gap limits the speed and depth of multi-domain analysis.
The Path Forward
Responses will inform a future formal solicitation; contract vehicle and timeline not yet stated.
35) F-35 Joint Virtual Enterprise IT Ops and Cybersecurity
Joint Program Office | Special Notice — Industry Day | Event: May 21, 2026 | SAM.gov link
Seeking
Full-spectrum IT operations, ITSM, and IA/cybersecurity support for the F-35 JPO’s JVE network and standalone workstations across 22 CONUS/OCONUS sites in three support tiers. Core service areas:
Operations management: 338 servers, 1,300+ VoIP devices, 355 network devices, 18+ custom applications; NOSC with 95%/90% uptime thresholds (critical/less-critical).
ITIL-based ITSM at ISO 20000-1:2018 equivalent across all lifecycle phases.
Cybersecurity: RMF compliance, continuous monitoring (ACAS 98%+, ESS 95%+), incident response, A&A artifacts across on-prem and Azure IL-5.
Air System ISSE/SSE: cyber systems engineering, security requirements, technical design reviews (up to 20/year), RMF/JSIG execution; requires TS//SCI.
Enterprise architecture, cloud FinOps, database management, asset lifecycle, knowledge management, digital media, and special projects.
The Problem
Likely: The JPO’s unclassified IT backbone underpins coordination across all F-35 directorates, international partners, and FMS customers — any degradation delays F-35 fielding. Follow-on procurement per PWS title.
The Path Forward
Industry Day May 21, 2026; RSVP and questions via jsf.mil/industry-day.
Government will use feedback to refine requirements before RFP release.
Base plus four option years; no set-aside; U.S. citizenship required; SECRET minimum, TS//SCI for some positions.
Helpdesk facility required within walking distance of JPO headquarters in Arlington, VA.
PIAs with Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman required within 60 days of transition.
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