Basic Information Awareness Operations (BIAO) Request for Information (RFI)

The Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO) is conducting a Request for Information on Basic Information Awareness Operations (BIAO), a rapid prototyping effort to detect and counter adversary cognitive domain operations, with responses due by August 21, 2026. The procurement will be conducted under Other Transaction (OT) authority at the Unclassified level across two distinct tracks: Track A for modular technology component developers and Track B for a single systems integrator, with no predetermined set-aside.

Track A targets capabilities in detection of coordinated inauthentic behavior and AI-generated content across digital platforms; generation of counter-narratives with human-in-the-loop oversight; modeling, simulation, and validation of campaign efficacy using population models and behavioral metrics; and deployment and measurement of operational effectiveness. Track B seeks a systems integrator to architect and maintain the Layered Information Nexus (LIN), a secure, modular platform integrating Track A components through open APIs and common data schemas at DoD Impact Levels 5–6. Organizations may submit for both tracks during the RFI phase but cannot be selected for both in formal proposal evaluation.

All solutions must employ open architecture with well-documented interfaces to prevent vendor lock-in. The Government does not impose minimum Technology Readiness Levels or require pricing in RFI responses. The overall program timeline is anticipated at 3–5 years from prototype through transition, with Track A components operating on a six-month on-ramp/off-ramp cadence. Facility and personnel security clearances for classified work are highly desired but not prerequisites. The Government will sponsor facility clearances on an as-needed basis and encourages responses from small and non-traditional businesses. A consolidated Q&A document was posted to SAM.gov on August 17, 2026. White papers must not exceed 10 pages plus cover page, with two additional pages per additional component or track.