Call 03 M-DASH - Joint All Domain Persistent Adaptive Collaborative Technologies II (JADPACT II)
DEPT OF DEFENSE.DEPT OF THE AIR FORCE.AIR FORCE MATERIEL COMMAND.AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY.FA2384 USAF AFMC AFRL PZL AFRL RAKH · Response deadline: Wed, 21 Oct 2026
What the government is buying
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is soliciting proposals for Call 03 M-DASH - Joint All Domain Persistent Adaptive Collaborative Technologies II (JADPACT II). This is a research and development contract focused on advanced defense technologies in the multi-domain operations space.
JADPACT II continues work under the broader M-DASH (Multi-Domain Agile Security Hardware) program structure. AFRL's RAKH directorate, which handles this type of acquisition, typically manages rapid innovation and experimental technology development for the Air Force. Multi-domain operations involve integrating capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains—requiring persistent (always-on), adaptive (responsive to changing conditions), and collaborative (interoperable) technology solutions.
The work falls under NAICS 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences—except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology). This classification covers defense-related R&D services including advanced systems engineering, technology prototyping, and integration of complex operational capabilities. See the solicitation for specific technical requirements, deliverables, and performance objectives.
Key facts
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Agency | Department of the Air Force, Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL RAKH) |
| Notice type | Solicitation |
| Solicitation number | FA238426SB007 |
| NAICS | 541715 — Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences |
| Set-aside | None (full and open competition) |
| Response deadline | October 21, 2026, 5:00 PM EDT |
| Place of performance | Las Vegas, NV |
Who can bid
This solicitation is full and open competition with no set-aside designation, meaning all responsible sources—including large businesses, small businesses, and other eligible entities—may compete. Because the NAICS is 541715 with no set-aside, there is no Small Business Administration size standard restriction limiting eligibility.
Small businesses capable of performing advanced defense R&D should evaluate whether they have:
- Relevant multi-domain or C2/C3 (command and control) technology experience
- Capacity to deliver R&D in a fast-paced, iterative environment typical of AFRL's rapid innovation programs
- Ability to perform in Las Vegas, NV or manage subcontractor/teaming arrangements for that location
Joint ventures, mentor-protégé arrangements, and subcontractor teams are permitted under full and open competition. See the solicitation for any specific security clearance requirements, past performance standards, or other qualification criteria.
How to put together a competitive bid
For R&D solicitations like this, focus on technical credibility and innovation approach:
Demonstrate domain expertise: Propose personnel with direct experience in multi-domain operations, persistent surveillance technologies, adaptive systems, or collaborative autonomy. AFRL values demonstrated understanding of operational challenges over generic capabilities.
Emphasize speed and agility: M-DASH program calls typically favor proposals with clear, incremental development paths and rapid prototyping cycles. Structure your technical approach with identifiable milestones and decision points.
Address the "adaptive" and "collaborative" elements specifically: These are program differentiators. Explain how your solution evolves under varying conditions and integrates with existing or planned joint force architectures.
Team strategically: If your firm lacks breadth across all required technical areas, identify partners with complementary capabilities. For full and open competition, a strong team may outweigh small business status.
Price for R&D risk: Cost realism matters in AFRL R&D. Avoid low-ball pricing that undermines credibility, but demonstrate efficient resource use. Include clear basis of estimates.
Past performance: Cite relevant AFRL, DARPA, or service laboratory contracts. Operator-facing technology demonstrations or experiments carry significant weight.
Next steps
Read the full solicitation on SAM.gov using solicitation number FA238426SB007 — this notice is a summary only; technical requirements, evaluation criteria, proposal format, and any amendments will be in the complete posting.
Note the deadline: Proposals are due October 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM EDT — the response window is approximately two weeks from posting, requiring prompt action.
Register in SAM.gov if not already registered, and ensure your entity registration is active and complete.
View the official notice on SAM.gov →