Bid guide
How to bid on Research and Development for Air Force Airbase Systems
What the Air Force is buying
The Department of the Air Force is looking for research and development proposals related to airbase systems. This is a five-year opportunity focusing on basic research, applied research, advanced technology development, and advanced component development and prototypes.
Specific areas of interest, such as modern timber products in an expeditionary environment, automated heavy machinery, and PFAS destruction, are announced through separate 'CALLs'. Vendors should monitor the official government portal for these CALLs.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Broad Agency Announcement was published on March 30, 2026. The overall deadline for this opportunity is January 02, 2028, at 4:00 PM ET. However, individual CALLs will have their own specific deadlines and submission requirements.
For each CALL, there is a two-step submission process. First, you will submit a white paper. If your white paper is requested, you will then be invited to submit a full proposal. It is crucial to adhere to the deadlines specified in each CALL.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms specializing in Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences. The Air Force is seeking expertise across various stages of R&D, from basic research to advanced component development.
Companies with capabilities in areas like materials science (e.g., modern timber), robotics and automation (e.g., heavy machinery), or environmental engineering (e.g., PFAS destruction) should pay close attention to the specific CALLs as they are released.
How to respond
To access the full details of this opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.
Once you have accessed the opportunity, you must monitor the official government portal for specific 'CALLs' that will outline the detailed topic areas and submission instructions. Each CALL will provide technical and contracting points of contact.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Given the two-step submission process, focus on creating a strong white paper that clearly articulates your proposed research, its relevance to the Air Force's needs, and your team's capabilities. A compelling white paper is essential to be invited for a full proposal.
Thoroughly review each CALL's specific requirements and evaluation criteria. Tailor your response to directly address the stated objectives and demonstrate a clear understanding of the problem the Air Force is trying to solve. Ensure your proposal aligns with the definitions of basic research, applied research, or advanced development as outlined in DFARS 235.016(a).
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 the Air Force; the original posting controls.