Runway Independent Mobility / Next Generation Intra-theater Airlift (NGIA) Request for Information (RFI)
ID: RFI-AFRL-RQKP-2024-0002Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEAIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; APPLIED RESEARCH (AC12)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is seeking innovative ideas and technologies for the Runway Independent Mobility / Next Generation Intra-theater Airlift (NGIA) platform. The objective is to enhance airlift capabilities in contested environments, focusing on aircraft that can perform short to very short takeoff and landing operations to support Agile Combat Employment (ACE) and various secondary missions, including joint support and rapid force projection. This RFI aims to gather information to shape future investments in advanced airlift capabilities, with responses due by November 1, 2024, and a Stakeholders' Forum anticipated in mid-November for further discussions. Interested parties can contact Peter Seiley at peter.seiley@us.af.mil for additional information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking innovative ideas and technologies for a next-generation intra-theater airlift platform, which aims to enhance logistics capabilities in contested environments. The RFI emphasizes the need for aircraft with exceptional agility, short takeoff and landing capabilities, and advanced propulsion systems to support missions such as rapid force projection and joint support in challenging conditions. Responders are encouraged to provide insights into risk reduction strategies, aircraft modifications, early-stage technologies, and the application of digital engineering to streamline development processes. Responses should address various topics, including trade-offs between performance and costs, supportability concepts for efficient cargo handling at austere locations, and required testing facilities. Written submissions are due by November 1, 2024, with an anticipated Stakeholders' Forum occurring mid-November for further discussions. The AFRL clarifies that this RFI is purely for information gathering and does not constitute a solicitation for proposals. The goal is to shape future investments in the development of advanced airlift capabilities, contingent on ongoing and planned governmental procurement processes.
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