Transformative Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning High-Performance Computing Commercial Solutions Openings (CSO)
ID: W912HZ25SC003Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE ARMYW2R2 USA ENGR R AND D CTRVICKSBURG, MS, 39180-6199, USA

NAICS

Electronic Computer Manufacturing (334111)

PSC

IT AND TELECOM - HIGH PERFORMANCE COMPUTE (HARDWARE AND PERPETUAL LICENSE SOFTWARE) (7B20)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/6c757725a40e4563be47a605ab2235a4/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), is issuing a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to acquire innovative commercial solutions for transformative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities tailored for high-performance computing environments. The primary objective is to identify and validate technologies that can deliver secure, scalable, and real-time AI/ML computations in complex military scenarios, addressing unique challenges such as robust security and adaptability to dynamic environments. This initiative is critical for enhancing the DoD's operational efficiency and decision-making capabilities in support of national defense objectives. Interested parties must submit their proposals through the ERDCWERX platform by October 9, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Jody Criss at jody.criss@usace.army.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Jody Criss
    jody.criss@usace.army.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    ARL DSRC Facilities 20250904.docx
    The document outlines facility and infrastructure requirements for two systems: TI-26 Base 1 at Bldg 3511, Aberdeen Proving Ground, and TI-26 TDS at Bldg 120, Aberdeen Proving Ground. Both require robust power, cooling, and networking. TI-26 Base 1 needs 2,730 sq. ft. of space, 2.0 MW of UPS/generator-backed power (480V preferred for compute, 208V for dual-sourced components), and 500 tons of 60°F chilled water cooling, with 95% liquid heat removal. TI-26 TDS requires 64 sq. ft., 0.2 MW of UPS/generator-backed power (480V preferred for compute, 208V for dual-sourced components), and 50 tons of 60°F chilled water cooling. Both systems must integrate with existing ARL DSRC network infrastructure, including 40/100 Gb/s LAN, 100 Gb/s WAN, and a 10/40 Gb/s private storage network, with specific interface requirements for data transfer and public/storage connections. The document emphasizes redundancy for critical infrastructure and the ability to maintain production even if compute racks are powered down.
    CSO Transformative AI-ML HPC Capability 17Sep2025.docx
    The Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is seeking commercial solutions for transformative AI/ML High-Performance Computing (HPC) for the Department of Defense (DoD). This Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) aims to enhance the DoD's AI/ML capabilities for national defense, focusing on secure, scalable, and real-time computations in complex military scenarios. Solutions should support various ML workloads, from large-scale training to inference, and be deployable in both unclassified and SECRET environments, with potential for TS/SCI. Key requirements include modern software environments, rapid system delivery, and robust security compliance (e.g., DISA RMF, NIST SP 800-53r4). The project also mandates 5-year hardware and software maintenance, comprehensive training, and 24/7 support with SECRET-cleared personnel. The selection process involves a two-step submission of solution briefs, followed by an RFP for promising solutions with available funding. Submissions are due by October 9, 2025.
    Similar Opportunities
    Commercial Solutions Opening - ERDC Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), is seeking innovative solutions via a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to support the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL). The focus of this procurement is on advancing research and development in six key areas: Cold Region Domain Awareness, Mobility and Maneuver in Cold Environments, Integrated Ice Operations, Advanced Materials for Extreme Cold, Resilient Energy Systems, and Cryospheric Biochemical Applications. These initiatives are critical for enhancing the operational capabilities of the Army in cold regions, ensuring effective mission execution in challenging environments. Interested parties can submit their solutions through the ERDCWERX platform starting January 31, 2025, until December 31, 2025, with all submissions directed to Melodie Fisher at melodie.y.fisher@usace.army.mil or by phone at 601-634-4687.
    SAF/CDM Commercial Solutions Opening
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Secretary of the Air Force Concepts Development and Management (SAF/CDM), is soliciting innovative commercial solutions via the Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) FA7146-21-S-C001. This initiative aims to acquire cutting-edge commercial items, technologies, and services that address defense-related activities and close existing capability gaps, particularly in areas such as countering strategic competitors, Big Data, AI/ML technologies, and emerging cyber technologies. The CSO operates under a two-step process, with White Papers due by September 1, 2026, followed by invited proposals due by September 30, 2026, and anticipates multiple awards with an estimated budget of $100 million. Interested vendors can contact Kevin T. Adams at kevin.adams.20@us.af.mil or (301) 203-4766 for further details.
    DLA Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) FY2026
    Buyer not available
    The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is conducting a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) for the fiscal year 2026, inviting proposals for innovative solutions to enhance its logistics support activities. The primary objective is to solicit Solution Briefs that address various Areas of Interest (AOIs), particularly focusing on developing Engineering Support Activities (ESA) approvable Level 3 Technical Data Packages (TDPs) for hard-to-procure or non-procurable parts, which are critical for maintaining the readiness of military services and other authorized customers. Interested offerors must submit unclassified Solution Briefs by March 13, 2026, using the provided template, and are encouraged to frequently check for updates on the AOIs. For inquiries, contact Thomas J. Walsh at Thomas.walsh@dla.mil or Lauren Runowski at Lauren.Runowski@dla.mil; please note that no funding is available for proposal submissions, as funds will only be disbursed after a signed contract.
    Commerical Solutions Opening - GRL
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL), is issuing a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to acquire innovative commercial technologies and services. The solicitation aims to enhance mission command environments, develop full 3D mapping capabilities, and advance remote sensing technologies, inviting proposals for both existing technologies and new applications that address geospatial capabilities. Proposals will be evaluated based on technical innovation, relevance to agency needs, and pricing, with a maximum of two submission volumes allowed. The solicitation is open until June 30, 2026, and interested parties can contact Anna Crawford at Anna.Crawford@usace.army.mil or LaShanda Areghan at lashanda.d.areghan@usace.army.mil for further information.
    Mississippi Valley Division Civil Works Areas of Interest Commercial Solutions Openings
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Mississippi Valley Division (MVD) of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), is issuing a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to solicit innovative commercial products, technologies, and services aimed at enhancing civil works operations. The primary objectives include addressing maintenance of navigation channels, improving materials and repair methods for navigation structures, and developing solutions for sedimentation prediction and flood risk management. This initiative is critical for maintaining navigability and safety in U.S. waterways, with specific focus areas including the maintenance dredging of the Vermilion River in South Louisiana, which faces unique environmental and logistical challenges. Interested parties should submit solution briefs by December 5, 2025, with potential contract awards anticipated by January 30, 2026. For further inquiries, contact Whitney Dee at Whitney.R.Dee@usace.army.mil or Catherine Hansen at catherine.a.hansen@usace.army.mil.
    Protecting Army Modernization and Supply Chains- Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, through the Army Contracting Command, is seeking innovative solutions to enhance cybersecurity within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) as part of the Protecting Army Modernization and Supply Chains initiative. This opportunity invites proposals for automated cybersecurity measures that comply with critical standards such as NIST controls and Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), aimed at supporting small businesses in mitigating cyber threats while ensuring the protection of intellectual property and secure access. The initiative is crucial for safeguarding defense technologies and ensuring the rapid delivery of military capabilities, with submissions accepted until March 6, 2030. Interested parties can contact the Army NCODE Team at usarmy.apg.acc.mbx.dc3oe-ncode-cso@army.mil for further information.
    DARPA's Commercial Solutions Opening (DCSO) for Commercial Strategy
    Buyer not available
    The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting proposals under its Commercial Solutions Opening (DCSO) for transitioning and commercializing innovative solutions derived from DARPA-funded research and development efforts. The primary objective is to close military and civilian capability gaps by leveraging commercial solutions, with a particular focus on the Embedded Entrepreneur Initiative (EEI), which funds entrepreneurs to assist in commercialization efforts. This initiative is crucial for enhancing national security and economic growth by bridging the gap between innovation and practical application. Proposals are due by April 30, 2026, and must adhere to the updated solicitation requirements, including a detailed Statement of Work and pricing documentation. Interested parties can contact Melissa Ramirez at DARPACSO@darpa.mil for further information.
    Defense Innovation Unit Commercial Solutions Opening
    Buyer not available
    The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) of the Department of Defense is seeking proposals for its Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO), aimed at enhancing military capabilities through innovative commercial technologies. This opportunity invites both traditional and nontraditional defense contractors to submit prototype projects that align with national security objectives, focusing on technologies that contribute to the sustainment of global peace and U.S. national security. The CSO process consists of three phases: submission of a solution brief, a pitch session for selected companies, and a full proposal submission for those invited, with successful prototypes potentially transitioning to production without further competition. Interested parties can find more information and updates on Areas of Interest on the DIU website at https://www.diu.mil/work-with-us, and are encouraged to contact DIU at info@diu.mil for inquiries.
    Blast Overpressure Protection Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
    Buyer not available
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army's Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC), is issuing a Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) to acquire innovative commercial products, technologies, or services related to blast overpressure protection. This solicitation allows for the competitive award of proposals that do not need to be commercially available but must meet the requirements set forth by the regulation, enabling the use of commercial procedures for contract execution. The solutions submitted will be evaluated by subject matter experts within the ERDC, emphasizing the importance of innovative approaches in enhancing safety and effectiveness in military applications. Interested parties must submit their proposals through the ERDCWERX platform by 12 PM EST on December 22, 2025, and can reach out to Allison Hudson at allison.b.hudson@usace.army.mil for further inquiries.
    USAFA Rapid Acquisition Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
    Buyer not available
    The Department of the Air Force, through the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA), is issuing a Rapid Acquisition Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) FA700025SC001, seeking innovative commercial technologies and services to enhance warfighter capabilities. Specifically, Call 002 focuses on the development of passive and AI-enabled exoskeleton technology aimed at improving warfighter lethality by enhancing endurance, situational awareness, and mission effectiveness. This initiative is critical for ensuring that cadets receive the advanced training necessary for their roles, with proposals due by September 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM MDT. Interested offerors should direct inquiries to Christian A. Cornell or Alex W. Kephart at 10CONS.PKB.CSO@us.af.mil.