Bid guide

How to bid on Unmanned Carrier-Based Aircraft Solutions RFI from DEPT of the Navy

DEPT of the Navy Patuxent River, MDCloses August 13, 2026

What the Navy is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Navy is conducting market research for Unmanned Carrier-Based Aircraft. They are looking for industry concepts for advanced autonomous platforms that can operate from Ford-class and Nimitz-class Nuclear Aircraft Carriers.

This is an opportunity for companies to showcase their capabilities in designing, developing, prototyping, manufacturing, and fielding next-generation unmanned aircraft. The information gathered will help the Navy shape future requirements, investments, and acquisition decisions for its unmanned strategy.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 14, 2026. All responses must be submitted electronically by August 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET.

The deadline is firm. Make sure your submission is sent to the specified email addresses before this time. This is a market research effort, so there is no direct award from this RFI, but it informs future solicitations.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for firms with expertise in aerospace engineering, autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing, particularly those capable of developing unmanned aircraft for naval operations. Companies that can offer concepts for single-role, multi-role, or modular unmanned platforms are encouraged to respond.

The Navy is interested in both technical and programmatic information for air vehicle and mission systems. This falls under the professional services category, specifically for advanced research and development in aviation.

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 all documents.

Responses should be submitted electronically to [email protected], with a carbon copy (CC) to Samantha Moore at [email protected]. Your submission is limited to 10 pages, using Times New Roman 12-point font and single spacing. You may also include an accompanying PowerPoint presentation, not exceeding 20 slides, without videos. All information must be unclassified.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Focus on clearly articulating your concept's technical and programmatic aspects within the page limits. Highlight how your proposed solution aligns with the Navy's interest in highly capable, autonomous platforms optimized for carrier operations.

Ensure your submission is unclassified and adheres strictly to the formatting requirements, including font size and page count. A well-organized and concise response will be more effective in conveying your capabilities to the Navy.

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 BiddingSimple

This 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.