Notice of Contract Action - Precise Ensemble Network Communications Allowing PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing)
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 has issued a Notice of Contract Action (NOCA) for the anticipated Precise Ensemble Network Communications Allowing PNT (PENCAP) effort. This NOCA provides advance information regarding a future two-step closed Advanced Research Announcement (ARA) for the development of a network clock ensemble and its implementation on a VPX card running pntOS. This is not a solicitation; no proposals are requested at this time.
Scope of Work
The PENCAP program aims to develop a robust network clock ensemble algorithm capable of evaluating local and remote timing references for stability and trustworthiness, incorporating a weighting system, and featuring outlier rejection. A resilient network method will be designed to disseminate timing and stability information, configurable for various communication links and authentication of new nodes. The algorithm and network method will be implemented on a modified Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) 3U VPX card. The project will include simulated, lab, and flight tests. Deliverables include prototype cards, networking methods, and the ensemble algorithm.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Anticipated Definitive (c-type) Cost-Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF)
- Estimated Value: $9,300,000.00 (estimate only, not a contractual obligation)
- Set-Aside: None
- Published: March 18, 2026
- NOCA Response Date: April 15, 2026 (for inquiries, not proposals)
- Anticipated ARA Publication: Around May 2026 on SAM.gov
Submission & Evaluation
This NOCA is not a solicitation, and the Government is not requesting proposals or documentation at this time. Any proposals received will be disregarded. The Government will not reimburse costs associated with any communication submitted in response to this notice.
Additional Notes
Funding for this effort is anticipated but remains uncertain and subject to change at the Government's discretion. Potential offerors should be aware that funding may change with little or no notice due to budget fluctuations.
Contact: Gabriel Berner (gabriel.berner@us.af.mil, 385-633-2263)