Bid guide
How to respond to the Army’s Soldier Protection and Comfort Materials RFI
What the Army is seeking
The Department of the Army is seeking information about fibers, yarns, fabrics, coatings, and finishes that could improve soldier protection and thermal or physical comfort. The Army is especially interested in materials that combine at least two functions, such as moisture management, thermal protection, repellency, vector protection, or flame resistance. All approaches must be PFAS-free.
This is a request for information, not a contract solicitation. The Army is gathering information for planning and technology assessment; the RFI will not directly lead to a contract award.
Deadline and what it means
Responses are due December 23, 2026, by 5:00 p.m. EST. The announcement lists the publication date as October 30, 2026.
The deadline is for submitting information in response to the RFI. It is not a bid opening or a deadline to submit a price proposal.
Who this opportunity suits
This RFI may suit suppliers and developers of textile materials, including firms working on fibers, yarns, fabrics, coatings, or finishes for protective clothing. Relevant capabilities include combining textile functions and demonstrating how materials perform in military-relevant conditions.
The Army is interested in near-term solutions at TRL 5–7 or higher, as well as earlier-stage concepts at TRL 2–4. It also welcomes early-stage single-function materials when respondents explain how they could be integrated with other materials to create a multifunctional product.
How to access and respond
To open the opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click opens the portal homepage, click it again to go to the bid. A free account may be needed to view documents, though some opportunities do not require one.
Submit the response electronically to [email protected] and [email protected] by December 23, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. EST.
Prepare a focused response
Describe the material and the functions it provides, and make clear how it meets the Army’s PFAS-free requirement. If the solution is multifunctional, explain how its functions work together. For a single-function concept, describe possible integration with other materials.
For near-term materials, address durability under laundering and abrasion where relevant, and include performance evidence for the functions you claim. For vector protection, the RFI specifically asks for evidence of durability after laundering and maintained air permeability and vapor transmission. Keep the response clear about the technology’s maturity and whether it is intended for near-term use or future development.
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 Army; the original posting controls.