AFRL National Research Network Request for Information
Closed Special Notice Posted
- Solicitation number
- RFI-AFRL-FA2385-2026-9320
- Agency
-
Air Force Research Laboratory
Air Force Materiel Command, Department of Defense
- Responses due
- Set-aside
- No set-aside
Opportunity facts
- Place of performance
- United States
- Points of contact
Notice details come from SAM.gov. Updated .
About this opportunity
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), part of the Department of the Air Force Materiel Command, issued a Request for Information (RFI) on February 20, 2026, to identify potential sources capable of providing faster, more-trusted communication and network entry solutions for distributed research networks. The RFI Number is RFI-AFRL-FA2385-2026-9320, and responses are due by March 23, 2026. This is an informational solicitation only and does not constitute a commitment to award a contract or provide compensation for submissions. The initiative seeks to explore the next evolution of AFRL's successful Regional Networks pilot program to foster innovation and accelerate the development of transformational capabilities relevant to both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force. The RFI invites interested parties to submit white papers addressing five critical Lines of Effort regarding network infrastructure and governance.
AFRL seeks concepts for a scalable, agile research network that connects innovation hotspots and national partners across academic, industrial, and investment sectors to translate science and technology into dual-use applications and operational defense tools. Respondents must address five Lines of Effort: Network Architecture & Governance Model, Trusted Collaboration with AFRL, Value Proposition & Ecosystem Integration, Economic Engine & Investment Strategy, and Mission Impact & Alignment. White papers are limited to five pages, double-spaced with 12-point minimum font, and must be submitted via email with proprietary information encrypted or password-protected. Submissions should include company information, strategic alignment analysis, preferred operating models, partnership details, small business compliance information, 24-month cost estimates, existing contract history, and data rights descriptions. There are no stated eligibility restrictions, and participation appears open to academic institutions, industrial partners, and investment sector entities willing to engage in collaborative innovation with the Department of the Air Force.
Notice text
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is requesting information to identify potential sources to provide faster, more-trusted communication and network entry solutions for distributed research networks that meet future DAF needs. AFRL is exploring the next evolution of its successful Regional Networks pilot program to continue to foster innovation and accelerate the development of transformational capabilities relevant to both the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and the U.S. Space Force (USSF). Please review attached PDF document for complete details of the Request for Information.
Files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| REQUEST FOR INFORMATION-NATIONAL NETWORK - FINAL.pdf |
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