The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, has awarded six companies positions on a $200 million contract to conduct research and development for advanced aerospace vehicle technologies.
AFRL’s multiple-award contract underscores the importance of advancing aerospace technologies to strengthen national defense. At the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 Air and Space Summit on July 30, U.S. Air Force and Space Force leaders, alongside sponsor Lockheed Martin, will examine the innovations and strategies needed to maintain domain superiority. Sign up now!
What Is the Scope of the Contract?
The Department of War said Thursday the indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract covers research across multidisciplinary areas, including aerodynamics and structural technologies. The effort spans basic, applied and advanced research, as well as demonstration and validation activities. The work is intended to support the development, integration and transition of aerospace vehicle technologies for operational use.
Who Received the Contract Awards?
Each selected company will compete for task orders under the contract, which carries a shared ceiling value. The awards were made through a competitive process that drew 11 offers. The awardees include:
- Arctos Technology Solutions
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Innoveering
- Lockheed Martin Aeronautics
- Northrop Grumman Aeronautic Systems
- University of Dayton Research Institute
Other Contract Details
The work will take place at contractor facilities and is scheduled to run through April 9, 2037. At the time of the award, AFRL obligated up to $15,000 in fiscal year 2026 research, development, test and evaluation funds.
AFRL’s Broader R&D Initiative
The $200 million contract awards support AFRL’s wider effort to expand industry partnerships through large-scale R&D vehicles. In December 2025, the laboratory launched a $10 billion multiple-award contract to streamline the acquisition of science and technology services across key domains. The new awards reflect a more focused application of that strategy, targeting aerospace vehicle technologies and accelerating their transition to operational use.
