Integrated Demonstrations and Applications Laboratory (IDAL) Cognitive Enabling Technologies (ICET)

The contract FA8650-20-S-1958, titled "Trusted and Elastic Military Platforms and Electronic Warfare (EW) System Technologies (TEMPEST)," is administered by the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Sensors Directorate at Wright-Patterson AFB and aims to develop advanced methodologies, tools, and technologies to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in avionics and electronic warfare systems. The scope encompasses manned and unmanned vehicles, ISR systems, EW equipment, and subsystems critical to mission assurance in multi-domain environments. The primary objectives include advancing cyber security solutions, open system architecture standards, novel sensor and avionics technologies, and platform architectures that enable agile and revolutionary capabilities for current and next-generation Air Force and Department of Defense weapon systems. The effort is a broad, indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (IDIQ) type, with multiple awards anticipated under calls issued until March 31, 2026. The estimated total program value is approximately $808.5 million, with contract types primarily FAR-based cost-plus-fixed-fee but may include Firm Fixed Price or Other Transaction Agreements depending on the specific call. The contract places significant emphasis on stringent security requirements, anticipating most work to require Top Secret classification and adherence to Defense Security Service standards, including DD254 attachments and export control compliance. Proposals undergo a comprehensive security risk review (AFRLI 61-113) to safeguard against undue foreign influence, requiring detailed security questionnaires and disclosure forms for senior/key personnel. Subcontracting plans are mandated for awards exceeding $700,000 unless the offeror is a small business. Evaluation of proposals follows a two-step process prioritizing technical merit foremost, assessing understanding, technical approach, innovation, and transition potential, with cost/price as a substantial secondary factor. The contract incorporates numerous FAR, DFARS, AFFARS, and AFMCFARS clauses with provisions tailored per call, including patent rights, data rights, export controls, and limitations on pass-through charges. Deliverables cover research data, software, hardware, and operations/maintenance tasks, with all shipments requiring commercial packaging, special handling instructions when necessary, and appropriate marking per incorporated DFARS clauses. Payment and invoicing are administered electronically through the Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) system, with placeholders for specific accounting and contact details to be determined per individual call. The contract includes a comprehensive structure for submissions, with stringent formatting and security protocols and encourages ongoing dialogue between offerors and government technical and contracting representatives to ensure alignment with Air Force strategic objectives in advanced avionics and EW system technologies.