Air Force opportunity targets cyber threats

The Air Force is considering development a small-business contract for cybersecurity services to help identify and battle cyber threats to its networks, weapon systems and people.

The contract, known as Forge 2, also would support network defenses, law enforcement and counterintelligence operations.

In a sources sought notice, the Air Force said it is conducting market research to see if there are small businesses that can provide support and services in areas such as IDS/IPS systems, malware analysis, signature development triage, SCADA systems and protocols. They also are asking about familiarity with the Air Force information operations platform.

The notice includes a market analysis questionnaire that looks at resources, development capabilities, testing capabilities, risk factors and familiarity with Air Force policy, infrastructure, accreditation and other factors.

It appears a significant portion of the work will take place in San Antonio as the first question in questionnaire asks about offices, cleared facilities and subject matter experts in the San Antonio area.

The questionnaire also wants companies to say whether they can do at least 51 percent of the required work without teaming or subcontracting.

Some of the service requirements the Air Force is looking for include end point protection, network protection, computer forensics, quality assurance, integration and network and systems administration support to the 90th Information Operations Squadron.

Responses to the sources sought notice are due March 28. The Air Force has not made a final decision on whether or not to let the contract.