Secure Unclassified Network (SUNet) Modernization - Call for Solutions
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 War (DoW), through the Army Open Solicitation (AOS), is seeking innovative commercial solutions for the Secure Unclassified Network (SUNet) Modernization. This Call for Solutions aims to develop a next-generation SUNet optimized for rapid Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) experimentation, development, testing, validation, and data labeling off the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN). Solution Briefs are due by February 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM ET.
Purpose & Scope
The DoW requires a modernized SUNet system, a government-owned, secure, unclassified digital environment. This environment enables DoW and mission partners to rapidly experiment with new software and develop AI/ML tools without compromising cybersecurity. SUNet functions as a digital sandbox, providing segmented compute and storage resources for collaboration, data labeling, and validation of emerging AI/ML tools. The overall objective is to iteratively develop and demonstrate a SUNet prototype that supports rapid experimentation and development.
Key Requirements
- Develop a prototype SUNet system for refinement into a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) within 6 months and a full production system within 12 months of contract award.
- Establish at least seven types of segmented virtual enclaves for diverse customers (DoW, academia, industry, foreign partners).
- Enclaves must support hybrid on-premises and cloud infrastructure, AI/ML development, data labeling (IL5 environment), secure internet connectivity, interaction with edge systems, and remote site communication.
- Deploy mission-specific data and tools, enterprise tools, and data management capabilities.
- Implement Zero Trust Architecture and meet NIST SP 800-53 Rev 5 requirements.
- Maximize automation of DevSecOps practices and support remote access.
- Demonstrate the ability to host Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) data at Impact Level 5 (IL5).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Call for Solutions (CSO) associated with the Army Open Solicitation (AOS), W9128Z-25-S-A002.
- Set-Aside: None specified (open competition for innovative solutions).
- Potential Outcome: A follow-on production contract or transaction may result without further competitive procedures.
- Key Dates:
- Q&A Questions/Clearance Submission Deadline: February 10, 2026, 2:00 PM ET (for SECRET facility clearance validation).
- Virtual Q&A Session: On or about February 12, 2026.
- Solution Briefs Due: February 25, 2026, 12:00 PM ET.
Submission & Evaluation
Interested vendors must submit a Solution Brief. Submissions will be evaluated based on Feasibility, Viability, Desirability, Technical Merit, Schedule, and Price (Rough Order of Magnitude). Submissions must meet specific gate criteria, including SECRET facility clearance and TS SCI eligibility. Resellers and academic research proposals are not desired.
Additional Notes
The government reserves the right to proceed directly from Solution Brief to award. All solution briefs will be valid for 180 calendar days after the submission date. An amendment (0001) was issued to correct an email address within the original document.