AI Effects at the Edge Assessment Event

The Department of the Army, through the Cyber Fusion Innovation Center (CFIC) in collaboration with Army Cyber Command (ARCYBER) Technology and Innovation Center (ArCTIC), has published a Special Notice announcing a competitive assessment event for artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions. The opportunity seeks industry expertise to develop an AI/ML model embedded on a commercial platform that enables advanced capabilities for modular mission payload (MMP) development and seamless integration with connected sensors. This Special Notice outlines the government's methodology for pursuing, selecting, and assessing qualified industry solutions. The opportunity is classified under NAICS code 541330 (Engineering Services), and the place of performance is Augusta, Georgia. The assessment event follows a four-phase competitive process designed to identify and evaluate the most promising solutions.

The primary objective is to identify industry partners capable of delivering an AI/ML-embedded commercial platform that autonomously develops low-sophistication MMPs, integrates with connected sensors, complies with DevSecOps standards, and achieves Authority to Operate through automated security scanning. Eligible participants must be U.S. citizens only and must submit a maximum six-page whitepaper through the Vulcan platform by April 27, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. ET, with participating companies required to establish Vulcan accounts at least 48 hours prior to submission. The evaluation process includes Phase II assessment team review and downselection (April 29 - May 13, 2026), Phase III virtual demonstrations via MS Teams (June 9-11, 2026), and Phase IV final selection notification expected by June 15, 2026. The government intends to competitively award one or multiple contracts through non-FAR-based mechanisms, including Other Transaction Agreements under 10 U.S. Code 2371b, with potential follow-on production contracts available without competitive procedures upon successful prototype completion, subject to fund availability.