How to bid on Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) Production and Repair for the Navy

What the Navy is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Navy is conducting market research for companies capable of producing and repairing the Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) system. This system is a critical sensor netting technology used on US and allied ships and aircraft to enhance battlefield awareness and improve integrated fire control.

The Navy is looking for support from Fiscal Year 2029 through Fiscal Year 2034. This effort will involve manufacturing, assembly, repair, and testing of CEC systems and subsystems, including installation and checkout kits, spares, and ancillary engineering support for the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and Foreign Military Sales customers.

This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a solicitation for proposals. The information gathered will help the government understand industry capabilities and inform future acquisition decisions for this vital defense system.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

Responses to this Request for Information (RFI) are due by August 17, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. All submissions must be sent via email to the points of contact listed in the notice.

After the deadline, the Navy will review the submitted information to assess industry interest and capability. This RFI is for market research purposes only; it is not an offer to contract. If a solicitation is issued later, companies will need to complete a Nondisclosure Agreement (NDA) and Terms of Use Agreement (TOUA) to access technical data packages.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for companies with demonstrated experience in the production and repair of complex electronic systems, particularly in the defense sector. The work involves a hybrid build-to-print and build-to-specification approach for critical CEC subsystems, obsolescence management, and technology insertion.

Respondents must possess a minimum SECRET facility clearance prior to any potential award. The applicable NAICS code for this notice is 334511 (Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing). Firms must show they have the necessary facilities, equipment, and capabilities to meet program schedules and deliver fully tested equipment.

How to respond to this RFI

To respond, you must submit your written response via email to the points of contact listed in the original notice. Your response should not exceed 10 pages, excluding the cover page, and must use a minimum 10-point font.

The subject line of your email must include the RFI number, your firm's name, and "CEC System Production and Repair RFI Response". Ensure your response includes a cover page with the required information and clearly demonstrates your ability to meet the RFI's requirements, including possessing a SECRET facility clearance.

Tips for a competitive RFI response

When preparing your RFI response, focus on clearly articulating your firm's specific capabilities and experience directly relevant to the production and repair of complex electronic systems like CEC. Provide concrete examples of past projects that demonstrate your ability to handle build-to-print and build-to-specification requirements, obsolescence management, and integration of design updates.

Highlight your firm's production capacity, quality control processes, and ability to meet strict delivery schedules, especially in relation to shipyard "In-Yard Need" dates. Emphasize your technical expertise and any specialized equipment or facilities you possess that are pertinent to the scope of work. Clearly state your current facility clearance level to show you meet this critical requirement.