Transformational AI Capabilities for National Security

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI is issued by the Department of Energy (DOE) / National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) to gather market information for the "Transformational Artificial Intelligence (AI) Capabilities for National Security" initiative, also known as the Genesis Mission. The goal is to inform strategic planning, program design, and future funding for the long-term Genesis program. The NNSA seeks to integrate cutting-edge AI capabilities into its operations to accelerate nuclear weapons development timelines and enhance nuclear nonproliferation missions. This RFI is not a solicitation and does not commit the government to any contract.

The NNSA is seeking input from a wide range of entities, including businesses of all sizes, universities, think tanks, investors, and research organizations. Specifically, they are interested in capabilities related to:

• Classified AI Development and Deployment: Advanced AI models, fine-tuning, training, and deployment in classified environments, secure cloud platforms, and integration with existing HPC and edge devices.

• Data Curation and Management for AI Training: Methods for curating, structuring, cleaning, and preprocessing scientific and engineering data (including classified data) for AI training, anonymization techniques, and building FAIR, AI-ready data repositories with strong access controls.

• AI Model Development and Enhancement: Strategies for developing self-improving AI models, combining general-purpose AI with NNSA-specific models, identifying priority areas for AI development (e.g., high consequence design, deterrence, nonproliferation), and validating AI capabilities.

• Partnership Models and Operational Considerations: Structuring and incentivizing partnerships, governance models for shared resources, lessons learned from existing consortia, intellectual property rights, and protecting U.S. research and technology security interests.

• Cost, Pricing, and Budget: Information on cost drivers, typical pricing models, and indicative total cost ranges for AI solutions.

• Response Due Date: Friday, January 23, 2026, 12:00 PM Mountain Standard Time (MST).

• Format: Responses should not exceed 15 pages, be single-spaced, with 1-inch margins, and use Times New Roman 12-point font. Cover pages, tables of contents, acronym lists, pictures, and proprietary markings do not count towards the page limit.

• Content: Include organization name, point of contact, and a brief overview of relevant core competencies. An optional appendix for feedback on terms and conditions is permitted.

• Submission Method: Via email to clinton.rohloff@nnsa.doe.gov, with stephanie.vigil@nnsa.doe.gov in CC. The subject line must include "Transformational AI Capabilities for National Security".

• Confidential Business Information: Specific procedures are outlined for submitting confidential information.

• Research, Technology, and Economic Security (RTES) Requirements: Participation is restricted for certain entities, and ongoing risk reviews and reporting of foreign connections are required (detailed in Appendix I).