Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology (CATCH) Call 05

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a solicitation (Solicitation Number: FA237725RB004) for "CATCH" (Combat Identification Automatic Target Recognition Technology). The objective is to develop and transition cutting-edge Combat Identification (CID) and fusion capabilities for single and multi-ship scenarios, encompassing air, ground, and surface targets.

• Research and Development (CLIN 0001): Conduct research as detailed in Section J, Attachment 1, Statement of Objectives (SOO). The estimated cost and fixed fee are TBD per call. The estimated available funding is TBD per call.

• Hardware (CLIN 0002): Deliver hardware in accordance with Section J, Attachment 1, SOO. Deliverables include hardware developed and/or acquired. Specific hardware deliverables are TBD per call. For UID purposes, the estimated fully burdened cost will be determined per call.

• Computer Software (CLIN 0003): Deliver computer software in accordance with Section J, Attachment 1, SOO. Deliverables include software developed and/or acquired. Specific software deliverables are TBD per call. Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software licenses must be consistent with federal law and submitted for review.

• Contract Type: Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) for CLIN 0001. Pricing arrangement for CLINs 0002 and 0003 is TBD.

• Period of Performance: Not explicitly stated, but delivery dates are TBD per call.

• Estimated Value: Not explicitly stated.

• Offer Due Date: April 2, 2025, 05:00 PM.

• Submission Instructions: Bidders must complete blocks 12, 17, 23, 24, and 30. FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-3, and 52.212-4 are incorporated by reference and attached.

• Evaluation Criteria: Not detailed in the provided pages.

• Set Aside: Unrestricted.

• NAICS Code: 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences).

• Size Standard: 1,300 employees.

• The solicitation includes numerous FAR and DFARS clauses covering various aspects of contract performance, administration, and compliance.

• Section J lists several attachments, including Statement of Work, ANSI Guide, SF 298, Contract Security Classification Specifications, Subcontracting Plan, SOW Supplemental, Security Procedures Supplemental, Payment Instructions, and Contract Data Requirements List (CDRLs).

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) that specifies various data items required from the contractor. It details the type of data, submission requirements, frequency, and distribution for each item.

• Data Item No. A001 (Scientific and Technical Reports): Requires a final report, potentially including a draft submission, with specific formatting guidelines (ANSI-based AFRL Format Guidelines) and CUI marking requirements. Delivery timelines are specified for draft and final versions.
• Data Item No. A002 (Funds and Man-Hour Expenditure Report): Monthly reports required, submitted electronically, encrypted or password protected.
• Data Item No. A003 (Contract Funds Status Report - CFSR): Quarterly reports required, tailored to include forecasts and reconciled to the government's fiscal year. Submitted electronically.
• Data Item No. A004 (Contractor Spend and Expenditure Plan): Quarterly reports required, tailored to contractor's format, submitted electronically.
• Data Item No. A005 (Status Report): Monthly reports required, submitted electronically, with specific instructions for final report submission.
• Data Item No. A006 (Software User Manual - SUM): Required as needed to document the SOW, submitted electronically.
• Data Item No. A007 (Presentation Material): Required as needed for discussions, submitted electronically, with a limit on view graphs.
• Data Item No. A008 (Test Plan): Requires a Flight and Taxi Test Plan, submitted electronically.
• Data Item No. A009 (Computer Software Product): Includes software source code and executable, submitted electronically.
• Data Item No. A010 (Scientific and Technical Reports - R&R Annual Update): Annual update requiring completion of a specific profile template, submitted electronically.
• Data Item No. A011 (Scientific and Technical Reports - Security Plan): Security plan required within 15 days of award, submitted electronically, with specific instructions for classified data.

This CDRL outlines all the required deliverables and reporting that the contractor must provide throughout the contract performance period. Bidders need to understand these requirements to accurately estimate the effort and resources needed for proposal preparation and contract execution. The specific formats, frequencies, and distribution requirements for each data item are critical for compliance.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Statement of Objectives (SOO) Supplemental Requirements," provides additional requirements and guidance that are considered part of the overall SOO for the contract. Bidders must comply with these supplemental requirements to the same extent as the main SOO.

• Disclosure of Information: Requirements for submitting copies of information to be released at least 50 days prior to scheduled release, directed to the Contracting Officer and Program Manager.
• Key Positions and Minimum Qualifications: Identifies essential personnel positions and their minimum qualifications (education/experience). Any departure from these key positions requires prior written approval from the Contracting Officer.
• Packaging and Marking: Specifies that all hardware deliverables must be packaged according to commercial practices. Special handling instructions require specific bold lettering on boxes/crates and contact information for the Technical Project Officer.
• Program Manager and Focal Points: Identifies the Government Program Manager and lists program focal points, including the Principal Investigator (TBD).
• Contracting Monitor (CM) for Security: Designates the CM for Top Secret (TS) Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Security Administration.
• Implementation of Patent Rights Clause: Outlines requirements for submitting invention reports using DD Form 882 and notifications regarding subcontracts for experimental, developmental, or research work.
• Non-U.S. Citizens: Stipulates that contractor employees requiring access to USAF bases, AFRL facilities, or U.S. Government IT networks must be U.S. citizens. Waivers require written approval from the Contracting Officer. This also details IT network access endorsement procedures.
• Comprehensive Small Business Subcontracting Plan: References an incorporated subcontracting plan.
• Operations Security (OPSEC): Mandates OPSEC as an integral part of daily activities, requiring employee training (Level I and annual awareness) and adherence to security requirements to protect sensitive information. It also details procedures for reporting security incidents involving Critical Technology Elements (CTE) or Critical Program Information (CPI).
• Science and Technology (S&T) Protection: Outlines requirements in accordance with AFRLI 61-113 for S&T protection, including the development of a Protection Implementation document and regular updates.
• Risk Identification and Security Countermeasures (RISC): Details requirements for Security RISC Reviews, including initial/annual/ad hoc reports of Senior/Key Personnel. It also mandates notification to the Contracting Officer if personnel are involved with Foreign Government Talent Programs or have foreign components targeting U.S. technology, and outlines procedures for addressing identified security risks.

This document is crucial for bidders as it details specific compliance requirements beyond the main SOO, including personnel qualifications, security protocols (OPSEC, S&T Protection, RISC), information disclosure, packaging, and patent rights. Understanding and planning for these requirements is essential for proposal development and contract execution.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Security Program Questionnaire" used to review the security program and practices of institutions receiving research funding. It is intended to be completed by a Contractor/Recipient and reviewed by the S&T Protection Lead.

The questionnaire includes 13 questions covering various aspects of security, including:

• Physical security plans
• Information security processes
• Information storage locations
• Procedures for transmission, transportation, disposal, destruction, and reproduction of information
• Safeguards for personnel accessing information
• Plans for safeguarding Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) / Government Furnished Information (GFI)
• Cybersecurity and network protection procedures
• Operations security processes to prevent adversary access
• Insider threat deterrence, detection, and mitigation
• Procedures for handling compromised information
• Willingness to provide AFRL S&T Protection training

Bidders may be required to complete this questionnaire as part of the proposal submission process. The responses will help the government assess the bidder's capability to protect sensitive information and comply with security requirements related to the research funding opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, titled "Placeholder DD254," serves as Attachment 4 to Solicitation DD 254. It indicates that the solicitation itself is dated 3 September 2025.

• The document provides a placeholder title for a DD 254.
• It specifies the title of the associated solicitation as "Solicitation DD 254."
• It states the date of the solicitation as 3 September 2025.

Bidders interested in Solicitation DD 254 should note that this attachment provides the solicitation's date. To obtain a copy of the full solicitation, interested parties are instructed to email the Program Engineer, Kameron Grubaugh, at kameron.grubaugh@us.af.mil.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a one-step solicitation for Call 05, "Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology (CATCH) Call 05," issued under the CATCH ARA. The Air Force Research Laboratory, Sensors Directorate (AFRL/RY) is seeking technical and cost proposals for this research effort. The primary objective is to further Combat Identification (CID) and Automated Target Recognition (ATR) objectives.

• Contract: Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology (CATCH) Call 05

• Data Items: See attached CDRLs dated 03 March 2025 (Attachment 3).

• Software/Hardware: To be determined based on contractor proposal.

• Overall Effort: 39 months (36 months technical Period of Performance with 3 months for final reporting).

• Program Security Classification: Individuals must be US citizens and possess a TS/SCI and SAP security clearance.

• Export Control: Information is subject to Export Control (International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR)).

• Data Rights: Unlimited data rights are desired.

• Type of Contract/Instrument: Anticipated to be a Cost Plus Fixed Fee type contract, awarded under 10 U.S.C. 4023. Cost reimbursement contracts require an adequate accounting system.

• Estimated Call Value: $8,000,000.00 (reserves the right to exceed this amount).

• Anticipated Number of Awards: One contract anticipated.

• Anticipated Award Date: January 2026.

• Proposal Due Date and Time: 23 February 2026 (Monday), 5:00 PM, Wright-Patterson AFB local time (EDT).

• Submission Method: Electronic submission to the Contracting Points of Contact (POCs).

• DoD SAFE Link Request Deadline: 19 February 2026 (Thursday), 05:00 PM (EDT).

• Proposal Instructions:

  • Technical/Management Proposal: Limited to 35 pages.
  • Statement of Work (SOW): Limited to 10 pages.
  • Subcontracting Plans: Required for efforts exceeding $900,000.00 (exempt for small businesses).

• Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will undergo Peer or Scientific Review based on Technical Merit (first priority) and Cost/Price (second priority). Proposals will be categorized as Selectable or Not Selectable.

• Eligible Offeror: Unrestricted solicitation.

• Foreign Participation: Not authorized due to sensitive technology and classification levels.

• Offerors should monitor SAM.gov for amendments.

• Funds are not presently available; no award will be made until funds are available.

• The Government reserves the right to cancel the solicitation.

• Numerous attachments are referenced, including SOO, CDRLs, DD Form 254, and Section K (Reps/Certs).

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment 5 - Section K (Reps and Certs)", contains representations, certifications, and other statements required from offerors. It outlines various Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) provisions that offerors must address.

• Incorporated Provisions: Lists solicitation provisions incorporated by reference and in full text, including those related to Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code reporting, ownership or control, veteran employment reporting, safeguarding covered defense information, and business operations with the Maduro regime.
• Annual Representations and Certifications (FAR 52.204-08): Details the NAICS code (541715) and small business size standard (1,000 employees). It also outlines conditions for small business size standards for specific acquisition types and set-asides.
• Specific FAR/DFARS Provisions: Lists numerous provisions (e.g., 52.203-2, 52.203-11, 52.204-3, 52.209-2, 52.209-7, 52.209-11, 52.225-2, 252.204-7008, 252.225-7974) that require specific representations or certifications from offerors regarding their business practices, financial status, and compliance.
• SAM.gov Integration: Emphasizes that offerors may complete annual representations and certifications electronically in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) and verify their currency and applicability.
• Cost Accounting Standards (CAS): Includes provisions related to Cost Accounting Standards notices, certifications, and disclosure statements, particularly for contracts exceeding certain thresholds.
• Identification and Assertion of Restrictions: Addresses requirements for identifying and asserting restrictions on the Government's use, release, or disclosure of technical data or computer software.

This document is critical for all potential bidders as it specifies the mandatory representations and certifications required for proposal submission. Failure to complete these accurately and in the prescribed manner may render an offer ineligible for award. Bidders must carefully review each provision to ensure compliance and provide the necessary information, either through SAM.gov or directly within their proposal submission.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document outlines the Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) process for conducting Security Risk Reviews for federally funded research. The objective is to identify potential vectors of undue foreign influence and protect Department of the Air Force Science and Technology (S&T). The review process assesses risk factors to determine an appropriate Risk Acceptance Level (RAL).

Applicants/Recipients/Offerors/Contractors are required to submit the following with their application/proposal:

• Research and Related Senior and Key Person Profile Worksheet (Attachment 7)
• Security Program Questionnaire (Attachment 6)
• "Privacy Act Statement" consent form for each "Covered Individual", signed by the individual and the Applicant/Recipient as Sponsor (Attachment 8)

Not explicitly detailed in this document, but it references "Contract or Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) proposals".

• Submission of the required documentation is mandatory.
• By submitting the required forms, the applicant agrees to:
  • Certify that covered individuals are aware of disclosure requirements and potential liabilities for false representations.
  • Establish internal processes to address foreign talent programs, conflicts of interest, and research integrity.
  • Exercise due diligence to identify foreign components or participation in foreign government talent programs.
• If a security risk is identified that exceeds the acceptable threshold, the award may be declined, with rationale provided as Government OPSEC measures allow.

Not specified in this document.

• "Covered Individuals" are defined as individuals contributing substantively to a research and development project, designated as such by the federal research agency. For BAA solicitations, all Senior/Key Personnel are considered "covered individuals".
• Federal law requires disclosure of all current and pending research support for covered individuals.
• During the period of performance, applicants must re-submit profiles annually and whenever new covered individuals are identified. They must also notify the government within 5 business days if Senior/Key Research Personnel are believed to be participating in a Foreign Government Talent Program or have foreign components with strategic competitors.
• This requirement must be flowed down to sub-awardees/contractors.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Privacy Act Statement" for the Air Force Research Laboratory. It outlines the authority, purpose, routine uses, and consequences of not providing information related to applications for Federal research and development awards, grants, cooperative agreements, contracts, and Other Transaction Agreements sponsored by the Department of the Air Force.

• Authority: Lists various laws, executive orders, and memoranda governing the collection and use of information.
• Purpose: Explains that the collected information is used for processing, investigating, and maintaining records relevant to awards and agreements.
• Routine Uses: Details how the information may be shared with contractors, grantees, consultants, government entities, and law enforcement.
• Effect of not providing information: States that providing information is voluntary, but non-compliance with disclosure requirements (42 U.S. Code § 6605) can lead to rejection of applications, civil, or criminal remedies.
• Acknowledgment of consent: Includes fields for signatures and printed names of the covered individual and the institution's authorized representative, along with the proposal title and date.

Bidders responding to opportunities involving Federal grants, cooperative agreements, contracts, or Other Transaction Agreements with the Air Force Research Laboratory must understand the privacy implications and consent requirements outlined in this statement. Failure to provide the requested information or consent may result in the rejection of their application or proposal.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Research and Related Senior and Key Person Profile Worksheet" intended for use with FAR-Based Contracts. It serves to collect detailed information about the senior and key personnel proposed for an opportunity.

• The worksheet requires the collection of personal and professional details for a Project Director / Principal Investigator and up to five Senior / Key Persons.
• Required fields include First Name, Last Name, Position/Title, Organization Name, and Email Address.
• Optional fields include Middle Name, Suffix, Department, Division, Phone Number, and LinkedIn Profile.
• For each individual, a "Project Role" (with "PD / PI" pre-filled as an option) and "Other Project Role" field are included.
• A footnote indicates that fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required items.

Bidders must accurately complete this worksheet for all proposed senior and key personnel as part of their proposal submission. The information provided will likely be used by the government to evaluate the qualifications and suitability of the proposed team for the opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document serves as a placeholder for Government Furnished Information (GFI) Addendum. It indicates that GFI is expected to be provided, but the specific details are not yet available in this attachment.

• The document title is "Placeholder GFI Addendum".
• It references "Call 05 - FA2377-26-R-B006" and is labeled as "Attachment 11".

Potential bidders should note that GFI will be provided. To obtain a copy of the GFI Addendum once it is available, interested parties are instructed to email the Program Engineer, Kameron Grubaugh, at Kameron.Grubaugh@us.af.mil.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

This document, titled "Placeholder Statement of Objectives (SOO) SOO Title: CATCH Call 05 SOO", outlines the objectives for the CATCH Call 05 SOO.

This SOO contains Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Not specified in this document.

To obtain a copy of the SOO, interested parties must email the Program Engineer, Kameron Grubaugh, at kameron.grubaugh@us.af.mil.