Request for Information - Event-based Sensing Applications for Missile Defense
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 Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to gather data on Event-Based Sensing (EBS) applications for Next-Generation Missile Defense. This RFI seeks to understand the availability and technical capabilities of ground, airborne, and/or space-based EBS systems to enhance detection and tracking of evolving missile threats, including hypersonic and maneuverable missiles. Responses are due March 13, 2026.
Scope of Interest
The MDA is exploring EBS applications across three critical mission areas:
- Track: Improving early and precise tracking of sophisticated threats.
- Engage: Enhancing kinetic and non-kinetic weapon capabilities for interception.
- Assess: Utilizing advanced sensors and AI for real-time battle damage assessment.
Specific technical capabilities sought include:
- Tracking, typing, and discrimination for various missile phases.
- Interceptor seeker guidance (endo- and exo-atmospheric).
- Assessment of intercepts and Integrated Air and Missile Defense applications.
- Processing/computing hardware (including neuromorphic processing), algorithms (AI/ML), and data architecture.
Market Research Objectives
This RFI aims to:
- Assess the current marketplace, including capabilities from small businesses and nontraditional defense contractors (NDCs).
- Gather recommendations on rapid acquisition strategies and contractual approaches.
- Collect data on the state of EBS technology for missile defense applications.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Purpose: Market research and planning for future missile defense initiatives.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Response Due: March 13, 2026, 22:00 UTC.
- Published: February 12, 2026.
Submission Information
Respondents should provide organization details, type (NDC, nonprofit, small business), acquisition strategy recommendations, and technical responses detailing capabilities, Technology Readiness Level (TRL), and space demonstration readiness. Technical responses have a limit of 55 pages total (5 pages per subsection), with 2 pages for organizational/acquisition info.
Unclassified responses must be submitted via DoD SAFE (https://safe.apps.mil/) to mda.ebs@mail.mil. SECRET collateral responses can be sent via SIPRNet email (mda.ebs@mda.smil.mil) or physical mail if SIPRNet is unavailable.
Important Notes
This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP). The Government will not pay for any costs incurred in responding. Proprietary information must be clearly marked. Responses will be reviewed by MDA and potentially FFRDC/UARC/SETA contractors.