Bid guide
How to bid on Common Very Low Frequency Receiver (VLF) Increment 2 (CVRi2) Modernization for DEPT of Defense
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Air Force is seeking proposals for the design and rapid development of a production-ready common very low frequency (VLF) receiver and its support equipment. This technology is crucial for modernizing nuclear command, control, and communications (NC3) systems, ensuring secure Beyond Line of Site communications for Emergency Action Messages across all conflict levels.
The goal is to create a single, adaptable receiver system that can update all existing VLF NC3 airborne and ground systems, and equip future NC3 platforms. This new system must be Crypto Modernization-2 (CM2) compliant, capable of new waveforms, NSA certified, and Open Mission Systems (OMS) capable. The government may award one or two delivery orders based on best value and funding availability.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
Proposals for this solicitation are due by August 24, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. This deadline has been extended multiple times, with the latest amendment (Amendment #8) specifically addressing changes related to AI usage. Further information regarding these changes is expected on August 3, 2026.
At the deadline, all submitted proposals will be reviewed by the government. Eligibility for award is strictly limited to firms that are already awardees under Category 2 of the AFLCMC/XA IDIQ contract.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is specifically for technology firms that are current awardees under Category 2 of the AFLCMC/XA IDIQ contract. Additionally, offerors must be certified by the Joint Certification Program (JCP) to access the solicitation package, which contains Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
The project requires expertise in advanced VLF communication systems, secure communications, cryptographic modernization, and open mission systems. Firms with a proven track record in designing and developing complex, production-ready defense technology will be well-suited.
How to respond to this solicitation
To access the solicitation, click the “View original source” link. If you land on the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. The solicitation package contains Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), so access is restricted to offerors certified by the Joint Certification Program (JCP).
You will need to provide your CAGE Code and identify all locations where classified information will be accessed, handled, or processed to the Contracting Officer before you can receive classified documentation. You may need a free account on the portal to view documents.
Practical tips for a competitive response
Given the technical nature and specific requirements, ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your firm's capability to meet all technical specifications, including CM2 compliance, new waveform capability, NSA certification, and Open Mission Systems (OMS) integration. Highlight any relevant past performance on similar defense technology development projects.
Pay close attention to all amendments, especially Amendment #8 regarding AI usage, and any further information provided on August 3, 2026. Address all questions from industry that have been incorporated into the solicitation, as these often clarify government expectations. Since this is a fair opportunity proposal request under an IDIQ, focus on clearly articulating your best value proposition within the established contract framework.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.