Request for Information (RFI) - Next Generation Audio Kit

Project ID: FA8629-26-R-5014 FederalOpportunitiesSources Sought

Overview

Agency	AFLCMC Wright Patterson AFB
Deadline	05/29/26
Posted	05/13/26
Estimated Value	$500,000 - $5,000,000 (AI estimate)
Set Aside	None
NAICS	334220 - Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing
PSC	Not Provided
Location	Wright Patterson AFB, OH United States

Description

Primary Latest Change

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 that enhance communication and situational awareness for personnel during personnel recovery operations. Currently, personnel face challenges in maintaining reliable, interoperable communication across various platforms (fixed-wing, rotary-wing, ground forces) and environments. Existing audio components (headsets, push-to-talks, and cabling) lack full functionality, hindering situational awareness, personnel accountability, and effective communication. This capability gap necessitates a small, lightweight portable, rugged, and configurable body-worn system that integrates existing dismounted radios, providing a robust communication suite for real-time information sharing and enhanced operator safety. Two different headsets, one for land and one for maritime, will be accepted but having one headset that fulfills both environmental requirements is ideal. PLEASE SEE ATTACHMENT FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND INFORMATION ON HOW TO RESPOND TO THIS RFI.

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The United States Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), specifically the Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance & Special Operations Forces (ISR & SOF) Directorate, is conducting market research to identify sources that can enhance communication and situational awareness for personnel during recovery operations. The goal is to address challenges faced by personnel in maintaining reliable communication across various platforms and environments, as existing audio components are inadequate. Work Details The contract seeks a small, lightweight, portable, rugged, and configurable body-worn system that integrates with existing dismounted radios. This system should provide a robust communication suite for real-time information sharing and enhanced operator safety. Key tasks include: 1. Development of a Next Generation Tactical Audio Component Kit (NGTACK) for land and maritime environments. 2. Ensuring interoperability between land and maritime kits, including headsets, push-to-talks, cabling, and accessories. 3. Meeting specific Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) such as: - Hearing protection with a Noise Reduction Rating of at least 20dB mean attenuation. - Multi-channel capability to monitor and transmit on at least two separate radio channels simultaneously. - Durability compliant with MIL-STD-810G standards. - Environmental listening capability while providing hearing protection. - Water resistance for saltwater submersion at specified depths. - Short-range communication features that do not rely on the user's radio transmission. Place of Performance The contract will be performed at locations relevant to the operational needs of the US Air Force, potentially including both land and maritime environments.

Contacts