Bid guide
How to bid on High Energy Laser Technologies for Maritime Applications with the US Coast Guard
What the Coast Guard is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking information on high-energy laser (HEL) or similar directed-energy systems. These systems would be used to incapacitate targets in maritime settings. This includes potential installations on fixed piers, Coast Guard cutters, and small boats.
The primary targets of interest are uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and uncrewed surface vessels (USV). The Coast Guard needs to understand the availability and technical readiness of such technologies for use in challenging maritime environments, which require protection against shock, vibration, sea spray, and airborne particulates.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 20, 2026. The deadline for submitting your information is August 20, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.
At the deadline, the Coast Guard will stop accepting responses. This RFI is for information gathering only and is not a request for proposals or an invitation to bid on a contract. It helps the agency understand current market capabilities.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for technology firms specializing in high-energy lasers or comparable directed-energy systems. Companies with expertise in maritime defense technology, particularly those with systems designed to operate in harsh marine environments, will find this relevant.
Vendors should be able to provide detailed technical specifications for their systems, including physical dimensions, power requirements, and performance metrics. This falls under the technology category, specifically advanced defense or security systems.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full details and respond, you 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 go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents. However, for many bids, you can view documents without an account.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When preparing your response, focus on providing clear and concise technical details. Specifically address the requested information: system size, weight, power and cooling needs, estimated acquisition and installation costs, wavelength, output power, effect area, and range.
If available, include information on software loads, target profiles, and targeting methods. Emphasize how your system addresses the unique challenges of the maritime environment, such as protection against shock, vibration, sea spray, and airborne particulates. Quantify capabilities where possible to give the Coast Guard a clear understanding of your system's performance.
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 US Coast Guard; the original posting controls.