Request for Information (RFI) – Multiple in Multiple Out (MIMO) signal Mobil Ad Hoc Network (MANET)

This Sources Sought Synopsis (SSS)/Request for Information (RFI) is issued for informational purposes and market research only; it does not constitute a solicitation. The Government will not reimburse any company or individual for any expenses associated with preparing/submitting information in response to this posting. The information provided may be used by the Government in developing its acquisition strategy, statement of work/statement of objectives, and/or performance specifications. Interested parties are responsible for adequately marking proprietary or competition sensitive information contained within their response as instructed later in this posting.

The United States (US) Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance & Special Operations Forces (ISR & SOF) Directorate, Special Warfare (SW) Program Office (AFLCMC/WISN) and Contracting Office (AFLCMC/WISK) are conducting market research to identify possible sources with the ability to transmit a Multiple In-Multiple Out (MIMO) signal Mobile Ad Hoc Network (MANET) waveform in the S, and C bands with the ability to cancel interference, and to null jamming beams. The waveform should operate at or below the local noise floor and enable over 250 miles of Air-Ground Line of Sight communication. The system needs to be compatible with the AN/PRC-163 to support cross-branding data.

Currently, the USAF dismounted operators will be forced to employ at or near the forward edge to conduct operations including but are not limited to Tactical control of airborne strike assets, Special Tactics, and Assault Zone Operations. This could involve forward staging at dispersed forward operating sites up to 250 NM from main operating bases and command and control (C2) nodes to support Combat Air Forces in combat. These forward operating sites may face enemy attempts to locate friendly force electromagnetic emissions, line of site/Over the Horizon (OTH) communications, and global positioning systems jamming. Adapting communication and jamming capabilities to counter near peer detection are essential to ensure uncontested access and the ability to freely maneuver throughout the range of military operations around the globe.  This capability will allow dismounted operators to extend their radio frequency MANET connections through denied and degraded RF environments.

This is a Request for Information (RFI) only to identify potential sources for the solution. The information provided in the RFI is subject to change and is not binding on the Government. The Government has not made a commitment to procure any of the items discussed, and release of this RFI should not be construed as creating such a commitment or as an authorization to incur cost for which reimbursement would be required or sought.

Please see attachment for further details and instructions on responding to this Request for Information.