Precise Ensemble Network Communications Allowing PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing)

The Air Force Research Laboratory seeks proposals for development of a Precise Ensemble Network Communications Allowing Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PENCAP) system, with white papers due July 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM EDT. This is a two-step, unrestricted solicitation under a Cost-Plus Fixed Fee contract structure for 36 months of performance.

The estimated program cost is $9.3 million with anticipated funding allocation of $300,000 in FY26, $4 million in FY27, $2 million in FY28, and $3 million in FY29. The Air Force anticipates one award but reserves the right to award zero, one, or more contracts based on offeror performance capability and funding availability. Award is anticipated for February 28, 2027.

Step 1 requires white papers limited to five pages with a rough order of magnitude cost estimate, evaluated within 30 business days on unique and innovative approach, understanding of scope, soundness of technical approach, and affordability. Step 2 requires selected offerors to submit technical proposals (20 pages plus separate 10-page Statement of Work) and cost proposals within 30 business days of notification. Technical evaluation emphasizes innovation, scope understanding, technical soundness including risk identification and mitigation, and potential for transitioning deliverables to future government needs; cost is a substantial but secondary evaluation factor.

Deliverables include prototype PENCAP cards modified from Commercial-Off-The-Shelf 3U VPX cards capable of running pntOS, ensemble algorithms, resilient network methods, and integrated test fixtures. The ensemble algorithm must robustly evaluate local and remote timing references for stability and trustworthiness in dynamic environments, incorporating weighting systems and outlier rejection. The network will authenticate nodes, utilize existing aircraft communication links in point-to-point or hub-and-spoke configurations, and emphasize open standards for data and physical interfaces. The project culminates in simulated, lab, and flight tests.

All hardware equipment and non-consumed materials must be delivered to the government. The government expects unlimited rights in non-commercial technical data and computer software developed exclusively with government funds. Small businesses are encouraged. Foreign industry participation is not authorized at the prime contractor level; contractors must be registered and certified with the Defense Logistics Agency and submit a certified DD Form 2345.

Contractor personnel requiring access to USAF bases and IT networks must be U.S. citizens, with waivers available only through written Contracting Officer approval. All contractor employees must complete Operations Security (OPSEC) training at Level I within 30 days of joining the project, with annual refresher training required. Security incidents involving Critical Technology Elements or Critical Program Information must be reported within 24 hours. Contractors must comply with Science and Technology Protection Plan requirements and submit Protection Implementation Plan CDRL A013.

The Statement of Objectives is classified as Controlled Unclassified Information restricted to qualified U.S. contractors with current certification under DoD Directive 5230.25, evidenced by certified DD Form 2345. Contractors must contact Gabriel Berner (gabriel.berner@us.af.mil) or Kathryn Skaleski (kathryn.skaleski@us.af.mil) to request access via DoD Safe Website.

Intent to propose notifications are due by July 1, 2026 at 3:00 PM EDT. Amendment 1 issued July 10, 2026 added a Q&A attachment addressing timing sources, receiving platform quantities, and Link-182 use clarification; specific demonstration details will be finalized during post-award kick-off, though proposals must demonstrate scalability of proposed methodologies. The contract remains entirely unclassified.

NAICS code 541715; PSC code AC13.