Request for Information (RFI) - Solid-State Power Amplifier
ID: AFNWC_PZHS_002Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA2293 AFNWC PZHSBEDFORD, MA, 01730, USA

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/80388852666947f5a490c5bb81316f12/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Air Force, is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to gather market research on solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs) that operate within the 44 GHz band. The RFI outlines the requirement for SSPAs with a minimum RF output power of 80 W, which will be integrated into a Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) that includes a power supply, control logic, and heat sink, aimed at enhancing communication systems for air, ground-fixed, and transportable applications. Interested vendors are encouraged to provide detailed information regarding their capabilities, production readiness, and relevant technologies, with responses due by December 5, 2024, to designated USAF contacts, including Michael Pacheco at michael.pacheco.4@us.af.mil. This initiative is part of the USAF's strategy to improve reliability and adaptability while reducing life-cycle costs, with an anticipated need for approximately 120-150 units starting in the first quarter of FY26.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Michael Pacheco
    michael.pacheco.4@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Request for Information - Solid State Power Amplifier.pdf
    The U.S. Air Force (USAF) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to conduct market research for solid-state power amplifiers (SSPAs) that operate within the 44 GHz band. The desired specifications include a minimum RF output power of 80 W, with the SSPA being part of a Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) that also contains power supply, control logic, and heat sink. This RFI aims to assess the current advancements and readiness of SSPA technologies for air, ground-fixed, and transportable communication systems. Interested parties are invited to provide detailed responses regarding their capabilities, production readiness, environmental hardening, manufacturing processes, and relevant technologies. The projected need is approximately 120-150 units beginning in the first quarter of FY26. Key areas of inquiry include technology and manufacturing readiness levels, performance metrics, integration challenges, and available contract options. The RFI emphasizes that all information submitted will be used for market research purposes and does not constitute a solicitation for proposals. Responses are due by September 23, 2024, to designated USAF contacts, and businesses responding will not incur costs for submission. This initiative aligns with the USAF's goal of lowering life-cycle costs while ensuring high reliability and adaptability to various mission requirements.
    RFI - SSPA - Question and Answer.pdf
    The Solid-State Power Amplifier (SSPA) Request for Information (RFI) outlines the government's needs for market research on solid-state power amplifiers operating in the frequency range of 43.5 GHz to 45.5 GHz, requiring a frequency hopping bandwidth of 2 GHz. The query acknowledges both Continuous Wave (CW) and Pulse applications, with particular attention to the necessity for aperiodic pulse RF capabilities that adhere to specific environmental conditions and output power requirements. While respondents can provide alternatives regarding size and weight, the government currently maintains strict requirements and is not offering any relief in this area. This RFI serves to gather information on existing technologies that meet the outlined specifications and support the development of adaptable communications plans. Overall, the document emphasizes the importance of compliance with the established parameters while encouraging feedback from potential suppliers regarding their capabilities.
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