How to bid on Intelligence Exploitation and Targeting Systems for the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division at China Lake is seeking support for Intelligence Exploitation and Targeting Systems (IETS). This includes research, development, testing, and evaluation, as well as the fielding of new systems and sustainment of existing deployed systems. The work will involve prototypes, hardware, and software.

This opportunity is significant for firms specializing in intelligence systems, particularly those familiar with Common Geo-Positioning (CGS) software and hardware components used in various Distributed Common Ground System Navy (DCGS) programs and other intelligence centers. The contract will use both fixed-price and cost-plus-fixed-fee contract line items.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This is a Request for Information (RFI) and not a request for competitive proposals. The anticipated solicitation for this effort is expected to be posted on or about June 18, 2026. The deadline for this RFI is August 30, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET. No responses are requested for this RFI itself.

When the actual solicitation is released, all proposals must be submitted through the PIEE Solicitation Module to be considered for an award. Ensure your company is prepared for the eventual proposal submission process well in advance of the future solicitation deadline.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with expertise in intelligence exploitation and targeting systems, including research, development, testing, and sustainment. Companies with experience in software and hardware development related to geo-positioning and intelligence analysis are particularly relevant.

The prime contractor must have or be able to obtain a Secret facility clearance and the ability to obtain a Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) clearance. This indicates a need for firms with established security protocols and clearances.

How to access and respond to the solicitation

The anticipated solicitation will be posted on the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation tool and on SAM.gov. To do business with the federal government, interested firms must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) and PIEE.

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.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Given the security requirements, begin the process of obtaining or verifying your Secret facility clearance and SCIF capability immediately if you do not already possess them. This can be a lengthy process and is a mandatory requirement for the prime contractor.

Ensure your company's registration in SAM and PIEE is active and up-to-date. Note that new registrations and updates in SAM require a notarized letter, which can take several days to process. Proactively maintain your SAM registration to avoid delays.

Familiarize yourself with the PIEE Solicitation Module, as all proposals must be submitted through this platform. Understanding its functionalities beforehand will streamline your submission process when the solicitation is released. Also, ensure your firm is certified through Defense Logistics Information Services (DLIS) to access Controlled Unclassified Information within SAM.