Comms on the Move RFI

1. NOTICE

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.

2. BACKGROUND AND SCOPE

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) is conducting market research to identify possible sources capable of providing a highly reliable communications system that provides commercial broadband internet service while on the move.

3. CAPABILITY GAP

The system will need to have the ability to operate on redundant transport nodes which include both 4G LTE and/or 5G and commercial KU band Satellite Communications. Additionally, the system will need to have the ability to seamlessly fail over between transport modes if one fails or becomes degraded. The system will need to include a low profile, light weight, ruggedized configuration that can easily be mounted and dismounted from one vehicle to another. The antenna system will need to be electronically steerable to ensure that operators are not required to manually require satellites at any time during use. It will also need to have the ability to maintain satellite tracking and acquisition while operating on the move and through rough terrain with continued availability throughout operations. This capability will allow Special Tactics team the ability to have seamless C2 reach back during global operations and will be independent of any local communications infrastructure, providing the teams and commanders in the field the ability to battle track and direct operations as needed in real time. Additionally, it will provide the capability to operate within local infrastructure while utilizing 4G LTE transport which would provide the effect of low probability of detection (LPD) due to the blending in with normal routine communications traffic.