Occupant-Worn Software Defined Radio Device

1. Introduction

PMA-202 is seeking information from qualified vendors regarding their capabilities to provide an occupant-worn Software Defined Radio device for downed aircrew location and recovery in challenging operational, GPS-denied environments. This RFI is for informational and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for proposals. Responses to this RFI will be used to inform the development of future requirements and acquisition strategies.

2. Background

PMA-202 requires a robust, reliable, and secure communication and geolocation system to facilitate the recovery of downed aircrew in any world region. The system must prioritize secure and reliable communications, proof of life, and accurate geolocation even when the aircrew is incapacitated. This system is critical for ensuring aircrew survivability in challenging operational environments.

3. Requested Information

Respondents are requested to provide information regarding their capabilities to meet the following requirements. Please provide detailed information, including technical specifications, performance data, and any relevant experience with your white paper submittal.

System Overview:

1. SDR System Architecture: Describe your proposed occupant-worn device architecture


2. Communication: Describe the communication capabilities of your proposed system,
   
   
   
   • Methods and pathways for communication with overhead assets
   
   
   • Ability to communicate with rescue vehicles for the “final mile” of a rescue mission. Techniques for secure and jam-resistant communication in contested/denied environments.
   
   
   
   


3. Secure Communication and Cybersecurity: Describe the encryption methods and security protocols used to protect sensitive information from interception, unauthorized access, data breaches, and malware. Address resistance to jamming and other forms of interference


4. LPD Techniques: Detail the techniques employed to minimize the probability of detection by adversaries


5. Waveform: Describe the waveforms used, emphasizing their optimization for secure communication, and operation in contested/denied environments. Include information on resistance to jamming and interception.


6. Proof of Life: Describe the system's capability to automatically detect incapacitation of the aircrew and transmit proof-of-life data.


7. Automatic Activation Methods: Describe any automatic activation methods for the system, particularly in emergency scenarios.
   
   
   
   • Ejection Activation: How is the system automatically activated upon ejection from an aircraft?
   
   
   • Water Immersion Activation: How is the system automatically activated upon immersion in water?
   
   
   
   

Key Features and Performance:

Please provide information on how your proposed system addresses the following key features and performance requirements:

1. LPD (Low Probability of Detection): Describe the techniques used to minimize the risk of detection by adversaries. Responses demonstrating innovative approaches to LPD and secure geolocation in GPS-denied environments will be of particular interest.


2. Secure Communication: Detail the encryption methods and security protocols used to protect sensitive information.


3. Operational Environment: Describe how the system provides secure location and communications for operation in contested/denied environments.


4. Submerged Operation: Detail how the device will function and communicate in the event of an incapacitated aircrew with the device submerged in sea water.


5. Ruggedization and Waterproofing: Describe the ruggedization and waterproofing features of the device, including compliance with relevant MIL-STD or other industry standards.


6. Power Consumption: Provide information on the power consumption of the device and strategies for maximizing battery life.


7. Mounting: Describe the proposed method for securely mounting the device to the aircrew's survival gear.


8. Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP): Provide information on the size, weight, and power consumption of the device.


9. Regulatory Compliance: Identify the applicable regulations regarding radio frequency emissions and safety that the device complies with.


10. Human Factors Engineering: Describe how the device's design adheres to human factors engineering principles to minimize user error and enhance situational awareness.


11. Waveform Optimization: Describe how the device waveforms optimized for secure communication, and resistance to jamming and interception.


12. Maintenance Concept: Describe the recommended maintenance concept for the system.
    
    
    
    • Repairable vs. Consumable: Is the system designed to be repairable in the field or at a depot-level facility, or is it intended to be a consumable item replaced upon failure or at specified intervals?
    
    
    • Maintenance Schedule: If repairable, provide a recommended maintenance schedule, including preventative maintenance tasks and intervals.
    
    
    • Support Equipment: Identify any specialized support equipment required for maintenance and repair.
    
    
    • Training Requirements: Describe the training required for personnel to perform maintenance and repair tasks.
    
    
    • Estimated Lifespan: Provide an estimated lifespan for the system and its major components.
    
    
    • Obsolescence Management: Describe your approach to managing obsolescence of components and ensuring long-term support for the system.
    
    
    
    

(D) Company Information:

• Company Name


• Address


• Point of Contact (Name, Title, Phone Number, Email Address)


• Relevant Experience: Provide a brief description of your company's experience in developing and deploying similar systems.


• Facility/Security Clearances: Please indicate if your company holds a facility clearance and what level security clearances are held by employees of your company.


• Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code and business size under the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).

DISCLAIMER

“THIS REQUST FOR INFORMATION IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A SOLICITATION AND SHALL NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT. RESPONSES IN ANY FORM ARE NOT OFFERS AND THE GOVERNMENT IS UNDER NO OBLIGATION TO AWARD A BOA AS A RESULT OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT. NO FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE TO PAY FOR PREPARATION OF RESPONSES TO THIS ANNOUNCEMENT. ANY INFORMATION SUBMITTED BY RESPONDENTS TO THIS TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION IS STRICTLY VOLUNTARY.”

Interested parties, however, may identify their interest and capability by responding to the requirement with a capability statement. The Government will consider all information received prior to the closing date of this Request for Information. No phone inquiries will be entertained. Responses shall be made in writing via e-mail to the Contract Specialist at christopher.m.woehrer.civ@us.navy.mil.