Bid guide
How to bid on Finding Agile Solutions for Test (FAST) with the Dept of the Air Force
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Air Force is seeking innovative solutions for its testing needs through the Finding Agile Solutions for Test (FAST) Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO). This includes solutions across the spectrum from basic research to the development of operational systems. This is an opportunity for businesses to provide cutting-edge technology and services to a critical defense sector.
The Air Force Test Center (AFTC), Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AFOTEC) are key agencies involved. Other organizations with testing needs may also issue calls under this CSO. Individual awards are not expected to exceed $100 million.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This CSO was published on September 30, 2025. It is an open CSO with 'Calls,' meaning specific opportunities will be issued as needs arise. The CSO will remain open for the issuance of these Calls until September 30, 2026. All contract awards or agreements made against Calls under this CSO must be made on or before September 30, 2026.
The deadline for the overall CSO is September 30, 2026, at 7:30 PM ET. However, each individual Call issued under this CSO will have its own specific due dates for white paper or proposal submissions. You must pay close attention to the deadlines stated in each Call you are interested in.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms that can provide innovative solutions in testing across various technological readiness levels. This includes companies involved in research, development, and operational system support. The solicitation is categorized under professional services, indicating a need for specialized expertise.
The Air Force is looking for commercial solutions, and contracts may be fixed-price type contracts or Other Transactions for Prototype projects. This suggests a preference for readily available or rapidly developable solutions that can be adapted to defense testing environments.
How to respond to this opportunity
This document is not a request for white papers or proposals itself. Instead, interested parties must wait for specific 'Calls' to be issued. These Calls will be posted separately and will reference the FAST CSO. Each Call will define specific areas of interest, instructions for submission, due dates, and selection criteria.
To access the opportunity and future Calls, click 'View original source' on the portal. If you land on the 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.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When a Call is issued, carefully read all instructions. Calls may use a one-step process for full proposals, a two-step process starting with white papers, or an open/closed submission period. Understand which process applies to the specific Call you are responding to.
The primary evaluation factors will be technical merit, importance to agency programs, and funds availability. Price will be considered to ensure it is fair and reasonable. Focus your response on clearly demonstrating the technical superiority and relevance of your solution to the Air Force's testing needs. Be prepared to address any additional factors specified in individual Calls, such as past performance. Ensure your submission is complete and submitted by the stated deadline for that specific Call.
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.