Bid guide
How to bid on Novel Thermal and Power/Energy Management Architectures for Hypersonic Applications from the DEPT of the Air Force
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is looking for new ways to manage heat and power for future reusable hypersonic aircraft. They are interested in innovative concepts for power generation and cooling systems that go beyond current battery technology.
This is a Request for Information (RFI), which means the Air Force is conducting market research. They want to understand what capabilities are available in the industry to inform their near-term and mid-term program development needs. This is an opportunity for your company to showcase its expertise in advanced thermal and power solutions.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This RFI was published on July 15, 2026. Responses are due by August 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. At the deadline, the Air Force will stop accepting submissions.
Since this is an RFI, there is no award or contract directly associated with this submission. The information gathered will be used by the Air Force to assess industry capabilities and inform future solicitations or program development.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for companies with expertise in professional services related to advanced engineering, research and development, and innovative technology solutions. Specifically, firms specializing in thermal management, power generation, integrated power and thermal systems, and advanced fuel technologies for aerospace applications would find this relevant.
The Air Force is seeking novel concepts, validated modeling approaches, and risk-reduction strategies for auxiliary power technologies, thermal management technologies, and integrated power and thermal subsystem technologies.
How to respond
To access the full details and respond to this RFI, you need to go to the original source on the portal. Click “View original source” to open the opportunity. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid.
You may need a free account to view the attached documents, such as RFI-RAP-26-01_Dist A, which contains more specific details about the information requested.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When responding to an RFI, focus on clearly articulating your company's unique capabilities and innovative approaches. Since the Air Force is looking for novel concepts, highlight any proprietary technologies, patents, or unique research your firm has conducted in thermal and power management for high-speed applications.
Provide specific examples of validated modeling approaches or risk-reduction strategies you have successfully implemented. Even though this is not a bid for a contract, a well-structured and detailed response can position your company favorably for future opportunities with the Air Force Research Laboratory. Ensure your response directly addresses the areas of interest outlined in the RFI, such as onboard enthalpy management, auxiliary power technologies, and integrated power and thermal solutions.
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.