How to bid on Air Force Aerial Target Solutions for EBAY

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force is conducting market research for aerial target aircraft and related solutions. This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a request for bids. The Air Force needs target aircraft that can replicate threat systems, including their performance, signatures, and countermeasures, for weapons testing.

They are looking for commercially available or near-term solutions that can represent a wide range of airborne threats, from small hobby drones to advanced fighter and large aircraft. Your response will help the Air Force understand industry capabilities, inform future acquisition strategies, and make decisions about potential small business set-asides.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on August 14, 2026. Responses are due by September 28, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This is an information-gathering stage; no awards will be made from this RFI. The Air Force will use the submitted information for market research, acquisition planning, and to help determine if future opportunities could be set aside for small businesses.

Who this opportunity suits

This RFI is suitable for companies that can provide equipment related to aerial target aircraft. This includes firms with commercially available or near-term solutions for unmanned aerial systems that can simulate various airborne threats. Companies specializing in aerospace, defense technology, or drone manufacturing with relevant capabilities should consider responding.

How to respond

To access the full details and respond, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Click the provided link to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link 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 preparing a competitive response

Even though this is an RFI, a well-prepared response can position your company for future opportunities. Clearly describe your product or service, focusing on how it meets the Air Force's stated need for threat-representative aerial targets. Highlight whether your solution is commercially available or a near-term development.

Provide realistic rough order of magnitude (ROM) information if requested, as this helps the agency with budgetary planning. Emphasize any innovative approaches your company offers. If your firm qualifies as a small business, ensure this is clear in your response, as the agency is considering small business set-aside determinations.