Cyberspace Operations for Resilient Tactical Engagement and Execution (CORTEX)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force, Air Force Materiel Command (AFRL) has issued an Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) titled "Cyberspace Operations for Resilient Tactical Engagement and Execution (CORTEX)" (FA8750-26-S-7002). This two-step ARA seeks innovative research to advance Cyberspace Operations and Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO), and their synergy, for resilient tactical engagement. The total estimated funding is approximately $460 million. Initial submissions are white papers only, with formal proposals by invitation. White papers are accepted until December 31, 2030.
Purpose & Scope
The CORTEX ARA aims to catalyze capability and technique development that pushes the boundaries of Cyberspace Operations and EMSO, enabling operations in contested and dynamic Cyber-Physical environments. The research should focus on technologies that can operate, adapt, and persist in these challenging domains. Key technical areas of interest include:
- Microelectronics: For airborne/edge computing and Software-Defined Radio (SDR).
- Gateware, Firmware, and Software: Advancing Electronic Warfare (EW) and EMSO-enabled Cyberspace Operations.
- Maneuver Techniques: Across mediums, modalities, and phenomenology intersecting Cyberspace and the EMS.
- Analog and/or Biological Technology: For SDR and EMSO to achieve disruptive improvements.
- Anti-Tamper, Hardening, and Fencing Technology: To enable wider transition of hardware/software products to foreign partners.
- Formal Methods: For developing SDRs with superior Cybersecurity and reliability in contested environments. Submissions are expected to demonstrate entry Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 and exit TRL 6.
Contract Details
- Type: Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) leading to FAR-based procurement contracts or Other Transactions (OT) under 10 USC 4021, 4022, and 4023.
- Estimated Funding: Approximately $460 million total.
- Individual Awards: Normally range from $10 million to $50 million over up to 60 months, with potential for contracts up to $99 million in ceiling value.
- Anticipated Awards: Multiple awards are anticipated. Successful prototype projects under OTs may transition to follow-on production contracts.
Submission & Evaluation
This is a two-step process. Step One requires the submission of white papers. Formal proposals will only be accepted by invitation. While white papers will be considered until the final deadline, suggested submission dates are:
- FY26: April 8, 2026
- FY27: September 30, 2026
- FY28: September 30, 2027
- FY29: September 30, 2028
- FY30: September 30, 2029 The final deadline for white paper submissions is December 31, 2030, at 5:00 PM EST. Evaluation will be based on Overall Scientific and Technical Merit, Openness/Data Rights/Impact, Related Experience, and Reasonableness of Costs.
Eligibility & Set-Aside
This opportunity is open to all qualified offerors. There is no specific set-aside. Foreign participation is generally closed, with exceptions for fundamental research and FOCI companies with approved mitigation plans. U.S. Citizenship is required for contractor employees accessing USAF bases or IT networks, unless a waiver is granted.
Contact Information
Technical questions and white paper submissions should be directed to Jason Hallahan (AFRL/RIGB) at jason.hallahan.1@us.af.mil or (315) 330-3413. Contractual/business questions should go to Amber Buckley at Amber.Buckley@us.af.mil. Pre-proposal communication is encouraged.