Radio frequency (RF) Delivered Effects Platform – Man Pack 2.0 (RDEP-MP2)

This Solicitation is associated with the Army's Open Solicitation, W9128Z-25-S-A002. Please see the referenced link for more information https://sam.gov/opp/20f6ad25a7c64be891ca8a24fa9b452b/view.

Interested vendors should access the full Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) announcement through the Vulcan platform at the link provided. https://vulcan-sof.com/login/ng2/submission?collectionUuid=95ca00be-1d97-4e74-a5dc-f9ba5fc32537

The Government requires a lightweight (i.e. threshold of no more than 20 lbs), efficient, and man-packable CEMA system capable of being carried and operated by a single soldier. Current systems lack integrated on-board compute capabilities and a reliable means for data backhaul, limiting their ability to support advanced CEMA operations at the tactical edge. To address this gap, the desired solution must seamlessly integrate general-purpose processing, specialized graphical processing, storage, networking, Radio Frequency (RF) switching, software-defined radios (SDRs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), position/navigation/timing (PNT), tactical radio communications, and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs).

These capabilities must be modular and configurable to support mission-specific requirements, with a primary focus on a lightweight, man-packable form factor that enables single-soldier operation. While the solution may inform broader applications, the emphasis is on optimizing performance for dismounted operations at the tactical edge. The solution must also enable connectivity to mesh or cloud relay networks to ensure robust data backhaul and interoperability within the NGC2 architecture. By addressing these gaps, the United States Army will be equipped to achieve desired battlefield effects with greater efficiency and operational flexibility.

The desired system is a state-of-the-art CEMA effects solution designed to deliver secure, adaptable, and interoperable radio frequency-enabled capabilities that address the evolving demands of modern military operations. Fully compliant with current and emerging communication and network technologies, the desired system must ensure seamless integration with existing and next-generation military communication architectures while maintaining interoperability across diverse platforms.

Engineered for versatility, the desired system—defined as one or more hardware devices—must operate effectively in both unclassified and classified environments, providing secure and adaptable functionality for a wide range of mission profiles. Its lightweight design, with a total system weight objective of 15 lbs and threshold of no more than 20 lbs., must enable a single CEMA Operator to maintain freedom of movement and operational flexibility on the battlefield.

The desired system must include on-board or attached compute capabilities, including the incorporation of graphical processing unit (GPU) resources, to support the execution of complex CEMA effects, enabling advanced processing, decision-making, artificial intelligence (AI) / machine learning (ML), and robust communication capabilities, including connectivity to mesh networks or cloud relay systems for secure and reliable data backhaul at the tactical edge.

To maximize operational efficiency, the desired system must allow for the re-programmability of internal SDRs and Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) using the Common Framework Environment (CFE) and/or Warped Alloy (WA) (Government Furnished Software) software frameworks. Forward re-programmability is critical for enabling rapid adaptation to evolving mission requirements and minimizing downtime by eliminating the need to return to secure locations for updates, thereby reducing operational and maintenance complexity.

The desired system must feature an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) that integrates seamlessly with established military capabilities, such as the Tactical Assault Kit (TAK). This user-friendly interface enhances situational awareness, streamlines operational workflows, and gives the Operator full control of the hardware and applications.

Designed for advanced communication capabilities, the desired system must enable remote control of RF platforms over-the-air (OTA), ensure operational flexibility and reduce physical intervention requirements. It must be fully compatible with established U.S. Army fielded Internet Protocol (IP)-based communications platforms, potentially eliminating the need for external radio systems and enhancing connectivity across the force. Furthermore, the system must support OTA data transmission across other relevant Army Programs of Record, fostering interoperability and ensure mission-critical information is shared effectively.

This innovative solution represents a significant leap forward in tactical technology, delivering robust, adaptable, and secure capabilities to meet the demands of modern military operations.

Interested vendors should access the full Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) announcement through the Vulcan platform at the link provided. https://vulcan-sof.com/login/ng2/submission?collectionUuid=95ca00be-1d97-4e74-a5dc-f9ba5fc32537