NIWC Atlantic Plans $1B C5ISR Procurement Competition

The Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic (NIWC Atlantic) has announced an ambitious plan to initiate a full-and-open competition for a single-award Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract focused on the procurement of Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) systems. This contract, known as the C5ISR Acquisition, Engineering, and Integration (CAEI) contract, comes at a projected value ranging between $500 million and $1 billion, signifying a robust procurement opportunity for seasoned contractors in the defense sector. The detailed Request for Proposals (RFP) is expected to be formally released in Q1 FY2027.

This contract outlines the requirement for the production and delivery of approximately 20 to 30 integrated C5ISR systems that will serve multiple platforms, including shipboard, subsurface, land-based, and field-deployed systems. The significance of this contract cannot be overstated, as the successful execution of these systems is critical for enhancing the military's operational capabilities. The contractor will be tasked with managing concurrent production of these diverse systems, which may be at varying stages of complexity and development, illustrating the need for comprehensive integration and engineering expertise.

The impending competition also holds strategic implications for the information warfare domain, especially as it supports Major Defense Acquisition Programs (MDAPs) ranging across different Acquisition Categories (ACAT). NIWC Atlantic’s CAEI Integrated Product Team (IPT) plays a pivotal role by providing essential engineering development, production, and delivery of integrated C5ISR systems that contribute to the U.S. military's broader strategy to modernize and streamline operations across multiple warfare domains.

As the contracting landscape heats up, potential bidders will need to prepare accordingly. Key details regarding eligibility have been outlined, including alignment with the stated NAICS code 335999 (which corresponds to other communication equipment manufacturing), and ensuring that the company size does not exceed 600 employees. Therefore, it is imperative that interested contractors assess their operational capacities to meet these requirements effectively.

In terms of deadlines, contractors looking to engage with this opportunity should note that questions regarding the RFP can be submitted until October 15, 2026. Additionally, registration for a vital virtual presolicitation conference on October 22, 2026 is required, providing a crucial platform for potential bidders to gain insights and clarify any uncertainties about the upcoming solicitation.

Overall, the NIWC Atlantic's intention to foster competition through this significant IDIQ contract signals a continued investment in cutting-edge defense technologies. It reflects a commitment to advancing U.S. military capabilities and addressing the rapidly evolving landscape of information warfare, thereby presenting lucrative opportunities for knowledgeable and capable firms in the defense contracting space.

• The C5ISR CAEI contract is critical for integrated defense systems, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Estimated contract value is between $500M and $1B, indicating high stakes for competing contractors.
• The contract will be structured as a single-award, resulting in exclusive procurement rights for the winning bidder.
• The anticipated ordering period includes a 5-year base with an optional 5-year extension, promoting long-term partnerships.
• Potential bidders must consider the established size standard under NAICS code 335999, which limits eligibility.
• Contractors must be proactive; questions must be submitted by October 15, 2026.
• Registration is critical for the October 22 virtual conference to facilitate understanding of the solicitation requirements.
• Systems produced will span a range of complexities, enhancing UC military readiness across platforms.
• Bidders should prepare detailed engineering integration processes to align with procurement needs.
• Success in this competition can lead to significant revenue and influence in the defense market.