How to bid on USAFE-AFAFRICA Command and Control, Sensor, and Effector Modernization

What the Air Force is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Air Force, specifically United States Air Forces in Europe – Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), is seeking industry feedback on a proposed new acquisition framework. This framework aims to rapidly identify, evaluate, and field mission-critical technologies for Command and Control (C2), Sensors, and Effectors. They are moving towards an open-architecture, 'building block' model instead of large, monolithic systems.

This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a solicitation for a contract. It's an opportunity for vendors to influence how the Air Force will buy these technologies in the future. Your input can help shape the process and requirements for upcoming solicitations.

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 11:00 AM ET.

At the deadline, the Air Force will stop accepting feedback. Your submission will be reviewed to help the agency plan future acquisitions. This RFI does not guarantee a contract, but it is a chance to show your company's capabilities and provide valuable input.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for companies with experience in Command and Control (C2) systems, sensor technologies (like cameras, radars, RF sensors, automated target recognition, edge computing), or effector systems (such as Directed Energy systems, Counter-UAS, kinetic, and non-kinetic solutions).

The Air Force is interested in solutions with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 6 or higher and those that support 3rd Party Interoperability (3PI) via published Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). They are also specifically looking to engage both traditional and non-traditional defense contractors.

How to respond to this RFI

To access the full details, 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.

Your submission should not exceed five pages, using 8.5 x 11-inch pages, single-spaced, with 12-point Times New Roman font. A title page, transmittal letter, and table of contents do not count against the page limit. Provide an unclassified response as much as possible, and clearly mark any proprietary information. The government will not reimburse costs for submissions.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Focus your response on the specific questions asked in the RFI, particularly those regarding framework viability, the dual-award pathway, technical and intellectual property requirements, and Directed Energy safety. Clearly articulate your company's experience within the C2, Sensor, or Effector capability pools.

When discussing intellectual property, if Government Purpose Rights (GPR) are a barrier, propose a clear alternative IP rights structure. Explain the benefits the government would gain, such as access to more advanced capabilities or lower costs, by accepting your proposed structure. This demonstrates flexibility and a willingness to collaborate.

Ensure your response is concise and directly addresses the government's interest in speed, flexibility, and technical merit. Highlight how your solutions align with an open-architecture, 'building block' model and how they can integrate with existing systems, especially NATO legacy systems.