Bid guide
How to bid on MH-139 Defensive Weapon System upgrades for the Air Force
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of the Air Force is seeking information from companies that can upgrade the defensive weapon systems on its MH-139A helicopters. This is a Request for Information (RFI) to gather market research, not a direct solicitation for bids yet.
The goal is to modernize the existing M-240D Defensive Weapon System to meet current operational needs. They are looking for solutions that can fire many rounds quickly, be reloaded easily, and ideally use a mount that can hold different types of weapons. This effort focuses on retrofitting existing helicopters, and the Air Force is interested in firms with experience in aircraft modifications and certifications.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information was published on July 10, 2026. Responses are due by August 10, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.
Since this is an RFI, the deadline is for submitting your company's information and capabilities. The Air Force will use this information to develop its acquisition strategy and future solicitation documents. There is no guarantee that a formal solicitation will follow this RFI.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for companies with expertise in designing, integrating, and testing defensive weapon systems for aircraft, specifically helicopters. Firms with experience in aircraft modifications, structural integration, and obtaining both FAA Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) and military Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) for weapon systems on vertical lift aircraft are particularly relevant.
The Air Force is looking for solutions that are rapidly acquirable, using commercially available or military supply components where possible. Companies that can provide technical support during initial installation and testing will also be a good fit.
How to respond
To access the full details and instructions for this RFI, you will need to view the original source on the 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, though this is not always required for every bid.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Even though this is an RFI, provide a comprehensive response that clearly demonstrates your existing technology, qualifications, and experience. Structure your response to address all sections requested by the Air Force, including company information and detailed descriptions of your proposed solution.
Highlight your experience with similar projects, especially those involving aircraft modifications, weapon system integration, and obtaining necessary certifications like FAA STCs and military ECPs. Clearly describe your process for developing engineering packages for these certifications. If your proposed solution uses a weapon-agnostic mounting capability, emphasize this. If it's weapon-specific, explain the significant tactical advantages in lethality and capacity it offers. Be sure to address all key requirements outlined, such as ammunition capacity, reload time, field of fire, and crew interface. Adequately mark any proprietary or competition-sensitive information in your submission.
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.