Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology (CATCH) Call 05

The Combat Identification Automated Target Recognition Technology (CATCH) Call 05 solicitation, issued by the Department of Defense at Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio, seeks to advance technology in Combat Identification (CID) and Automated Target Recognition (ATR). This research and development contract, identified by solicitation number FA237726RB006, requires offerors to develop and transition enhanced combat identification capabilities in line with the outlined Statement of Objectives and supplemental requirements. The solicitation process is open until February 23, 2026, and does not include any set-aside provisions. The prime contacts for this effort are Kameron Grubaugh and Omar Eldadah. The contract type largely follows a cost-plus fixed-fee structure with clearly defined contract line items covering R&D, hardware, and software deliverables. The contract incorporates numerous compliance and regulatory provisions as detailed in the included representations and certifications document, requiring adherence to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) clauses. These include safeguarding sensitive defense data, veteran employment reporting, security clearance requirements, and mandatory Operations Security (OPSEC) training. Security protocol is strictly enforced, including controls over classified and sensitive compartmented information, restrictions on non-U.S. citizen access to USAF bases and IT systems, and mandated security program reviews aligned with AFRL policies. The contract data requirements list (CDRL) and government-furnished information (GFI) attachments establish clear guidelines on data submissions, reporting, and information sharing. Overall, this solicitation represents a robust, security-conscious initiative designed to innovate and enhance the Air Force’s combat identification and target recognition capabilities under rigorous regulatory and performance oversight.