The Air Force Global Strike Command has launched a five-year, $100 million initiative in an effort to accelerate commercial partnerships and enhance rapid acquisition capabilities.
The Phase III Small Business Innovation Research indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract award for Commercial Engagement and Integration – Rapid Acquisition Decision Support, or CEI-RADS, will enable U.S. Air Force organizations to order commercial services in support of their research and development programs, AFGSC said Thursday.
“CEI-RADS allows us to tap into commercial innovations that were previously out of reach,” said Lt. Col. Alyssa Premus, deputy division chief of AFGSC’s Commercial Capabilities Integration & Transition Division. “This ensures we can rapidly respond to emerging threats, keeping our forces prepared and our operations ahead of adversaries.”
The Phase III CEI-RADS contract is aimed at increasing small business engagements and integrating their products into the Department of Defense ecosystem. It supports commercial market research, acquisition analysis and workforce training.
“Our goal is to build sustainable, results-driven partnerships with the private sector. This CEI-RADS contract will help ensure we not only identify promising private sector commercial technologies, but also that we transition those technologies efficiently for military use,” said Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, director for strategic plans, programs and requirements at AFGSC.
Keen on knowing more about the DOD’s research and development efforts? Register to join the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 Defense R&D Summit on Jan. 23 and hear insights from the nation’s leading defense researchers, experts and decision-makers.
