Bid guide
How to bid on Propulsion and Power Technology Development for Naval Aircraft, Dept of the Navy
What the Navy is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Navy's Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is seeking white papers for research and development in propulsion and power technology for naval aircraft. The goal is to find projects that can quickly transition into Navy systems.
This is an opportunity for businesses and institutions to contribute to critical naval aviation advancements. The Navy is particularly interested in proposals from small businesses and academic institutions.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
White papers are due by September 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline.
After the deadline, a panel of government technical evaluators will review the submitted white papers. Offerors whose white papers are consistent with the Navy's intent will be invited to submit a formal cost and technical proposal. Selection for award will be based on the potential benefit to the government weighed against the cost of the proposals and available funding.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is well-suited for professional firms, research institutions, and academic organizations with expertise in propulsion and power technology. The Navy specifically encourages submissions from small businesses, educational institutions, and various disadvantaged business concerns.
Firms with a focus on aerospace engineering, power systems, and related research and development will find this relevant. The emphasis is on projects that can be rapidly transitioned to Navy systems.
How to respond
To access the opportunity, 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 documents, though this is not always required.
White papers should be submitted to Stacey Stone at [email protected]. If your submission includes sensitive information, you can use the DoD Safe portal (https://safe.apps.mil/). The white paper should not exceed 30 pages, including a cost estimate, but briefness is desirable, with typical submissions ranging from a few pages to 15 pages.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Focus your white paper on the scientific and technical merits of your proposed research, clearly demonstrating how it supports the targeted technical topics and the validity of your approach. Highlight the potential contributions to Navy Propulsion, Power, and Energy objectives, emphasizing relevance, anticipated operational utility, and suitability for rapid transition to Navy systems.
Ensure your cost estimate is realistic and reasonable. The Navy anticipates cost-plus-fixed-fee, cost-sharing, and cost contracts. Clearly outline your firm's capabilities, related experience, and the qualifications of your research personnel and facilities. Remember that the cost of preparing your proposal is not an allowable expense.
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 Navy; the original posting controls.