Bid guide
How to bid on Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology (CATCH) for the Dept of the Air Force
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Air Force is seeking information for research and development on Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology, known as CATCH. This initiative focuses on improving how military systems identify targets automatically.
The work involves several key areas: exploiting data from various sensors across air, ground, and surface targets; combining data from multiple sensor types, both active and passive, from single or multiple platforms; and exploring new technologies and third-party software for operational modes. This is an important opportunity for firms involved in advanced defense technology.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 07, 2026. The deadline for responses is March 14, 2030, at 5:00 PM ET. All submissions must be received by this time.
An RFI is a way for the government to gather information and assess market capabilities. It is not a request for proposals and does not guarantee a future contract. However, responding can help shape future solicitations and position your firm for subsequent opportunities.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for small businesses specializing in professional services, particularly those with expertise in defense research and development. Firms with capabilities in modeling, simulation, and analysis, technology development, integration, testing, and evaluation are well-suited.
Specifically, companies with experience in sensor exploitation, multi-sensor data fusion, and exploring new operational technologies for combat identification will find this RFI relevant. The work primarily ranges from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 to TRL 7.
How to respond
To access the full details of this opportunity, you will need to go to the original source portal. Click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to navigate directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents. For some bids, documents are publicly accessible without an account.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When responding to an RFI, focus on clearly demonstrating your firm's capabilities and relevant experience in the specified areas. Provide concrete examples of past projects that align with sensor exploitation, multi-sensor fusion, and technology exploration for combat identification.
Highlight your firm's expertise in moving technologies from TRL 3 to TRL 7. Clearly articulate how your research and development efforts can contribute to the Department of the Air Force's goals for automated target recognition. Ensure your response is well-organized and directly addresses the information requested in the RFI.
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.