DIU: Robotic Exclusion & Engagement Framework (REEF)
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
The Robotic Exclusion & Engagement Framework (REEF) is a bilateral U.S.–UK Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) seeking technologies to detect, track, classify, and defeat underwater threats such as AUVs, UUVs, and semi-submersibles targeting ports and critical waterways. Solutions can address individual components or provide a full system, with preference for approaches that can integrate into a broader REEF architecture.
Selected vendors will work directly with U.S. and UK government teams and must be prepared to integrate and conduct in-water testing within 90 days of award.
Application deadline: 2026-04-03 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time.
How much funding would I receive?
Not specified in the solicitation, but typically will lead to awards between $500k - $2m.
What could I use the funding for?
Funding supports development and demonstration across four REEF components:
1. Detect, Track, and Classify
Subsea detection (bearing, range, tracking data)
Multi-sensor tracking and classification (including AI/ML)
False alarm and clutter reduction
Sensors (e.g., sonar, EO/IR, acoustic, magnetic, fiber optic sensing)
Deployable fixed and mobile systems (USVs, UUVs, UAVs, buoys)
Open architecture, MOSA-compliant systems
2. Defeat Capabilities
Non-kinetic: nets, barriers, bubble curtains
Kinetic: payloads, directed energy, physical disruption
Decoy systems
3. Data and Network Architecture
Secure, near real-time data transmission
Encrypted systems compliant with DoD interfaces
4. COP/C2 (Command and Control)
Common Operating Picture integration or standalone tools
AI/ML decision support
Multi-modal sensor fusion (AIS, radar, RF, acoustic, EO)
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Direct path to follow-on production without further competition under 10 U.S.C. 4022(f)
Opportunity for adoption across multiple DoD organizations
Collaboration with U.S. and UK government teams
Participation in technical development sessions
Integration into a broader multi-vendor system
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
Application deadline: 2026-04-03 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time
Post-award requirements:
Participate in several week-long technical development sessions
Be ready for:
Integration with other systems within 90 days of Other Transaction award
In-water testing within that same timeframe
Where does this funding come from?
Commercial companies
U.S. and UK
Non-U.S. companies may apply, subject to export control compliance
Additional requirements:
Only one submission per vendor
Must clearly identify which REEF component(s) the solution addresses
Who is eligible to apply?
All sources capable of addressing the objectives of this CSO are eligible
Additional requirements:
Must comply with security requirements (including DoD classification guidance)
Must be able to operate in DoD cloud environments (IL5 with scalability to IL6)
What companies and projects are likely to win?
The government indicates preference for solutions that:
Show a credible path to a full REEF system
Are modular, scalable, and rapidly deployable
Comply with open architecture (MOSA)
Support the full Detect–Track–Classify–Defeat chain
Perform reliably in complex maritime environments
Can integrate with other vendors and systems
Both component-level and end-to-end solutions are encouraged.
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Export Controls:
U.S. EAR and ITAR provisions apply (with UK-specific exemptions)
UK companies may use General Export Authorisation No. 001
Non-U.S. companies must comply with home-nation export laws
Submission limits:
Maximum 15 slides or 5-page whitepaper
Only one submission per vendor
Collaboration requirement:
Vendors must work with other vendors and government partners
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
Based on requirements:
A 15-slide or 5-page submission
Clear mapping to REEF components
This is structured for rapid preparation, especially for teams with existing technology.
How can BW&CO help?
Identify the strongest REEF component fit for your solution
Position your offering for system-level integration
Translate capabilities into clear defense outcomes
Ensure compliance with CSO format and evaluator expectations
Build a concise, high-impact submission (slides or whitepaper)
How much would BW&CO Charge?
We have both fractional engagements ($250 an hour) and full engagements ($9,000 + 5%) available.