Resilient Open & Agile Avionics System & Technology Development (ROAASTD)
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, specifically the AFRL Sensors Directorate, Spectrum Warfare Division (AFRL/RYW), has issued a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for Resilient Open & Agile Avionics System & Technology Development (ROAASTD). This unrestricted solicitation seeks white papers for research and development to enhance avionics systems against evolving global threats. White papers are due by April 19, 2028, at 1700 local time.
Purpose & Scope
This opportunity aims to advance technologies supporting the Air Force's ability to counter sophisticated adversaries and maintain military advantage in contested environments. The focus is on system and platform resilience, agility, and open systems standards to enable rapid integration of revolutionary sensor and mission system capabilities.
Key Requirements & Deliverables
Offerors must submit white papers as the initial step. Deliverables for awarded contracts will include data items (CDRLs, per Attachment 2), software, and potentially hardware. Contractors must adhere to Gold Standard Science (GSS) principles and comply with export control regulations, requiring a certified DD Form 2345. Security requirements are stringent, with facility clearances up to TOP SECRET and safeguarding at SECRET, involving access to various classified information types (e.g., COMSEC, SCI). Science and Technology (S&T) Protection measures are critical, requiring adherence to AFRLI 61-113 and submission of security risk review documents (Attachments 8-12). Contractor employees requiring base or network access must be U.S. citizens.
Contract Details
The Air Force reserves the right to award various contract types, including FAR-based contracts, Other Transactions (OT), grants, or cooperative agreements. The estimated total program cost is $30,000,000, with multiple awards anticipated, each ranging from $3,000,000 to $6,000,000. Individual awards will have a period of performance of 12-24 months, while the overall effort spans 60 months.
Submission & Evaluation
This is a two-step solicitation. Only white papers are being solicited at this time. White papers, limited to 5 pages (1 cover, 3 technical, 1 summary chart) and including a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost, are due by April 19, 2028, 1700 local time. Selected offerors will be invited to submit full technical and cost proposals within 30 days of the request. White papers will be evaluated based on technical approach, research interest, innovation, and ROM funding. Proposals will be assessed on technical approach, understanding of scope, risk mitigation, and potential for transition.
Eligibility & Security
This is an unrestricted solicitation, and small businesses are encouraged to participate. Cost sharing is not required but is permitted. Foreign participation is prohibited. Offerors must complete a Proposal Adequacy Checklist (Attachment 7) for cost/pricing data and provide detailed security documentation, including a Security Program Questionnaire and Key Person Profile Worksheets.
Contact Information
For technical and contracting questions, contact Sarah Ballard (sarah.ballard@us.af.mil) or Kathryn Skaleski (kathryn.skaleski@us.af.mil).