DIU: Runway Independent Maritime & Expeditionary Strike (RIMES)

Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).

Executive Summary:

This is a DIU Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) that invites companies with novel unmanned aerial systems (UAS) capable of providing long-range strike support for naval surface combatants—without relying on large runways or flight decks—to submit a solution. It is a fast, flexible path to a prototype Other Transaction (OT) award that could potentially lead to follow-on production contracts across the U.S. Department of Defense. Proposals are due February 27, 2026 at 23:59:59 US/Eastern Time.

How much funding would I receive?

The DIU CSO does not specify a fixed award amount on the posting. Instead, selected vendors typically negotiate a prototype Other Transaction (OT) agreement. Funding levels vary based on solution complexity and scope, and successful prototype awards can lead to larger follow-on production arrangements.

What could I use the funding for?

You may propose funding for:

• Technical development of a long-range UAS capability that meets the challenge criteria

• Prototyping of vehicle hardware, autonomy software, and integration with naval systems

• Test, evaluation, and demonstration efforts

• Integration and safety risk reduction activities

• Personnel, materials, subcontractors, and other direct costs aligned with system delivery and prototype execution

DIU’s focus is mission-relevant prototyping that can be transitioned rapidly to DoD users.

Are there any additional benefits I would receive?

If your prototype is successful:

• You may be considered for follow-on production contracts or agreements that do not require further competitive procedures, under 10 U.S.C. 4022(f).

• DIU’s CSO process provides strategic exposure and faster contracting than traditional DoD pathways.

What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?

Submission Deadline: February 27, 2026 at 23:59:59 US/Eastern — submit solution brief by this time.

After submission:

• DIU reviews briefs and may invite you to pitch or submit a full proposal.

• Prototype OT awards are typically executed weeks to a few months after selection, depending on evaluations and negotiations.

Where does this funding come from?

This solicitation is run by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) — a Department of Defense organization that accelerates commercial technology adoption for national security missions. It uses Other Transaction Authority (OTA) to award prototype agreements directly to commercial tech companies.

Who is eligible to apply?

• U.S. and foreign owned businesses are generally eligible; eligibility specifics are governed by the broader CSO requirements.

• Companies must register in SAM.gov and obtain a CAGE code prior to award if not already registered.

• A CMMC Level 2 (Self) cybersecurity posture is required before award.

DIU encourages commercial entities of all sizes — including first-time defense contractors — to submit solutions.

What companies and projects are likely to win?

Strong candidates will offer a UAS that:

• Operates without runways or large flight decks

• Has ≥1400 NM one-way range with a ~1000-lb payload of standard naval munitions

• Integrates with existing combat systems

• Demonstrates mission autonomy and resilience in contested environments

• Offers cost-effective, maintainable, and scalable approaches

• Supports rapid prototyping and field demonstration within 12 months

Projects that show technical maturity, clear operational benefit, and transition readiness are most competitive.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?

• Solutions must meet DIU CSO format and content requirements, typically not exceeding five pages or fifteen slides.

• CMMC Level 2 (Self) compliance is required before award.

• Any award will include compliance with applicable laws such as Section 889 NDAA requirements.

How long will it take me to prepare an application?

• A compliant Solution Brief should take a few weeks of focused effort to develop, including company overview, technical description, risk assessment, and linkage to challenge attributes.

• For competitive positioning, start well before the deadline to refine mission relevance and prototype feasibility.

How can BW&CO help?

BW&CO can help you:
• Translate your technical capabilities into a competitive DIU solution brief.
• Strategize on Line of Effort selection and demo readiness.
• Prepare compliance documentation and security coordination plans.
• Draft a high-impact live demonstration plan that aligns with DIU and DoD expectations.

How much would BW&CO Charge?

We have an hourly rate to strategize, review, and edit applications of $250.

Additional Resources

Review the solicitation here.