Aircraft Defensive Electro-optical Protection Technologies (ADEPT)
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE.AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND.AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY.FA2377 USAF AFMC AFRL PZL AFRL RYKS · Response deadline: Mon, 09 Nov 2026
What the government is buying
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is soliciting proposals for Aircraft Defensive Electro-optical Protection Technologies (ADEPT). This is research and development work focused on technologies that protect aircraft from electro-optical threats—systems such as infrared seekers, laser designators, and other optical sensor-based threats used in modern air defense and missile systems.
The ADEPT program likely encompasses the science and technology needed to develop, test, and validate defensive measures for military aircraft. This typically includes work across several technical domains: threat warning systems, countermeasure techniques, signature management, and potentially directed infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) or laser-based protection systems. The electro-optical threat environment has grown increasingly complex with advancements in imaging infrared missiles and multi-spectral tracking systems, driving continued investment in protective technologies.
This acquisition falls under NAICS 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences, except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology), specifically scientific R&D services for defense applications. See the solicitation for the complete technical scope, deliverables, and performance requirements.
Key facts
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Air Force Materiel Command |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | FA2377-26-R-B011 |
| NAICS | 541715 |
| Set-aside | No set-aside used (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | November 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time |
| Place of performance | Wright-Patterson AFB, OH |
Who can bid
This is a full and open competition with no set-aside, meaning any qualified U.S. business—large or small—may submit a proposal. Companies with capabilities in defense electro-optics, aerospace protection systems, infrared countermeasures, laser systems, or related engineering disciplines should evaluate this opportunity.
Small businesses are not excluded, but they will compete directly against larger defense contractors with established AFRL relationships and extensive R&D infrastructure. The Wright-Patterson AFB performance location suggests preference for or practical consideration of performers able to work on-site or maintain proximity to AFRL's Directed Energy and Electro-Optics research facilities.
How to put together a competitive bid
Understand AFRL's technical expectations. ADEPT is a research program, not a production contract. Proposals must demonstrate credible scientific and engineering approaches, not just manufacturing capabilities. Emphasize your team's prior research outcomes, peer-reviewed publications, or transition successes from lab to operational system.
Highlight relevant electro-optical expertise. Specific experience with aircraft survivability, infrared countermeasures, laser vulnerability analysis, or threat simulation will strengthen your proposal. If your firm has supported programs like LAIRCM, CIRCM, or related Air Force protection efforts, make this prominent.
Address phase transition risks. AFRL typically funds research through multiple phases with go/no-go decisions. Structure your proposal to show awareness of these transition hurdles and how your approach de-risks technology maturation.
Partner strategically if needed. Given the technical breadth, consider teaming: a small business with specialized electro-optical IP might partner with a systems integrator, or a research university could bolster basic science credibility. See the solicitation for any teaming restrictions or requirements.
Price realistically for R&D. Cost proposals must reflect the inherent uncertainty of research. Include adequate risk margins, but justify them with detailed technical rationales. Labor rates should reflect the specialized workforce this work demands.
Review Section L and M carefully. See the solicitation for specific instructions, evaluation factors, and page limits. AFRL solicitations often weight technical merit heavily over price.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number FA2377-26-R-B011. Confirm all requirements, evaluation criteria, and submission instructions, as only the official document governs this procurement. Responses are due November 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM Eastern Time—plan for potential system delays near the deadline.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →