AARO Seeks Classified Case Management System on JWICS
DefenseScoop coverage of aaro’s first formal contractor solicitation for a custom classified case management system (CMS) to track UAP investigations.
Key Details
- First such solicitation since AARO’s 2022 establishment
- System will operate on JWICS (Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System), the DoD’s top secret/SCI network
- A defense official confirmed AARO “currently uses a variety of tools” and aims to “integrate them” through a unified platform
Technical Requirements
The CMS must support:
- Categorizing UAP cases by type, severity, and priority
- Converting documents into structured data with auto-generated identifiers (weather, speed, location)
- Maintaining case action histories and status tracking from initiation through resolution
- Generating automated responses for case submissions
- Encrypting data according to sensitivity levels
- Customizable dashboards for different user roles
Timeline and Scope
- Capability statements due from contractors by June 9, 2025
- Requires active top secret clearances
- One base year with four option years
- Includes software development, JWICS certification, training, and sustainment
Context
As of November 2024, AARO’s caseload exceeded 1,600 reports, growing from 650–800 cases in earlier years. The acquisition supports AARO’s expanding mission, including the planned public UAP reporting mechanism. The structured system would replace ad hoc tracking practices and meet government records management requirements.
Cross-References
- aaro — the office acquiring the system
- brandi-vincent — reporter covering this development
- uap-reporting-infrastructure — broader reporting ecosystem this fits into