Request for Information (RFI) for Electromagnetic Spectrums Operations and Management

The Air Force Research Laboratory’s Information & Spectrum Warfare Directorate is issuing a Request for Information (RFI-RIK-26-01) to gather insights on electromagnetic spectrum operations and management, with a focus on technologies that enable the joint force to exploit, adapt to, and dominate in contested, congested, and dynamic electromagnetic environments. This RFI seeks input on a broad range of technical areas including spectrum allocation and assignment using both commercial and custom solutions, real-time resource allocation through machine learning or mathematical modeling, centralized versus distributed tasking methodologies in denied networks, coordination of conflicting RF modalities such as communications and electronic attack, commander-level spectrum visualization tools, ultra-high bandwidth monitoring capabilities, and assessments of sub-terahertz communication systems—all constrained by size, weight, power, and computational limitations. The goal is to transition away from static and uncoordinated spectrum use toward adaptive, integrated solutions that enhance operational effectiveness. Responses are required in Microsoft Word format, limited to five double-spaced pages excluding the cover page, with a mandatory inclusion of a rough order of magnitude cost estimate and a detailed technical summary addressing each area of interest. The submission deadline is June 10, 2026, and responses must be directed to Nicolas Law and Daniel Paradis at the Rome, New York facility. This RFI is explicitly non-binding, issued solely for informational and planning purposes, and does not constitute a solicitation for proposals or guarantee future contract award. No formal contract vehicles, delivery schedules, evaluation criteria, or funding amounts are included. Respondents are solely responsible for all costs associated with preparing and submitting their responses. The U.S. Government retains ownership of all submitted materials and will not return them. Responses must not contain classified information, and any export-controlled material must be clearly labeled under the Arms Export Control Act or Export Control Reform Act. Proprietary information must be marked on a paragraph-by-paragraph basis to distinguish it from publicly releasable content. The solicitation falls under NAICS code 541715 with no set-aside provisions, and all submissions must comply with the formatting, address, and content requirements outlined in the notice. The point of contact information and details are available through the SAM.gov portal, and responses are expected from industry, academia, and research institutions with relevant expertise in electromagnetic spectrum management and enabling technologies.