Bid guide
How to bid on the Navy Collaborative Combat Aircraft Increment 1 Prototype Project RFI
What the Navy is buying and why it matters
The Department of Defense, specifically the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), is seeking information from companies that can develop a prototype for an autonomous, carrier-capable unmanned air vehicle. This drone, part of the Navy Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, needs to launch from and land on aircraft carriers, have extended range, and carry weapons.
This effort aims to reduce technical risks and speed up the delivery of new capabilities to the fleet. The Navy wants to improve combat strategies through collaborative manned-unmanned operations and rapid prototyping. This prototype will help augment existing aircraft and develop future warfighting capabilities.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on August 31, 2026. Responses are due by September 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This is an RFI for planning purposes only and is not a solicitation for a contract.
The government will use the information received to understand industry capabilities before potentially issuing a Request for White Papers (RWP) and a subsequent Request for Project Proposal (RPP). Submitting a response is voluntary and does not guarantee future participation or compensation.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms with expertise in aerospace engineering, autonomous systems, drone development, and naval aviation technology. Companies capable of developing carrier-capable unmanned air vehicles with extended range and weaponization capabilities will find this relevant.
The Navy is looking for industry feedback and capability statements for a prototype development and demonstration. This falls under the professional services category, specifically for advanced research and development in defense technology.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the opportunity, click the “View original source” link. 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 documents, though this is not always required.
All submitted information must be unclassified. If you include proprietary information, clearly mark it as such. The government may review and use any submitted information across its departments.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Focus your response on clearly demonstrating your firm's capability to meet the specific requirements outlined, such as carrier capability, extended range, and weaponization. Highlight any relevant past experience with autonomous systems or naval aviation projects.
Even though this is an RFI, a well-structured and detailed response can position your company favorably for future solicitations. Clearly articulate your technical approach and how your proposed solutions align with the Navy's goals for collaborative manned-unmanned operations and rapid prototyping.
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 Navy; the original posting controls.