Post Quantum Cryptography Support for FAA Information Technology and National Air Space Systems
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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI Number 697DCK-26-RFI-PQC) to identify industry capabilities for providing Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Support for its Information Technology and National Airspace Systems. This RFI aims to gather strategic insights to inform the FAA's acquisition strategy for PQC modernization. Responses are due by April 10, 2026.
Scope of Work
The FAA seeks information on industry's readiness and capabilities to support the transition of the National Airspace System (NAS), Air Traffic Control (ATC) infrastructure, and FAA business systems to quantum-resistant cryptography. Key areas of interest include:
- PQC Migration Strategy: Input on transitioning both FAA enterprise IT and NAS safety-critical ATC systems.
- Procurement Models: Evaluation of "One-Stop Shop" versus "Individual Component" approaches.
- Technical Requirements: Considerations for NAS and non-NAS environments, including safety, complexity, longevity, and crypto-agility.
- Vendor Capabilities: Information on technology tiers, PQC algorithm implementation, FIPS validation, and cryptographic agility.
- Operational Impact: Analysis of potential disruption, performance constraints, and interoperability.
- Costs: Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimates for implementation and training.
- Vendor Insights: Challenges and opportunities in coordinating PQC upgrades and certification.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Purpose: Market research to inform future acquisition strategy.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Response Due: April 10, 2026, 4:00 PM ET
- Published: March 10, 2026
- Anticipated PSC: DA01 - IT AND TELECOM - BUSINESS APPLICATION/APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT SERVICES
- Anticipated NAICS: 541511 - Custom Computer Programming Services
Evaluation
Responses will be used to assess industry capabilities and inform the FAA's approach to PQC modernization. This is not a request for proposals, and the government will not pay for information received.
Additional Notes
All responses, questions, and comments must be submitted in writing via email to Jackson.T.LeMay@faa.gov and Kristin.T.Frantz@faa.gov. The email subject line should be "RFI Response: [697DCK-26-RFI-PQC – Company Name]". FAR references are not applicable to the FAA, which follows its own Acquisition Management System (AMS).