Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III Program - Request for Information (RFI) on Advanced Canopy Transparencies
ID: FA8650-25-S-5508Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8650 USAF AFMC AFRL PZL AFRL/PZLWRIGHT PATTERSON AFB, OH, 45433-7541, USA

NAICS

Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413)

PSC

AIRFRAME STRUCTURAL COMPONENTS (1560)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/dab9c62cb429469f8abe9e65055b3118/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has issued a Request for Information (RFI) under the Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III, focusing on the development and production of advanced canopy transparencies for various DoD weapon systems. This RFI aims to gather information on domestic production capabilities, design support, and advancements in manufacturing techniques that can address the unique challenges of low-volume and high-mix production typical of DoD platforms. The transparencies are critical subsystems that must meet stringent performance standards for airworthiness and optical clarity, highlighting the importance of a robust industrial base to secure supply chains and foster research and development. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses by July 31, 2025, and may request a supplemental data package by emailing the Contracting Office at AFRL.RXKM.TitleIII@us.af.mil, provided they have an active DD Form 2345.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Joshua Cole
    AFRL.RXKM.TitleIII@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    (Dist A) Advanced Transparency Title 3 RFI_final AMEND 2.pdf
    The Department of the Air Force, specifically the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), has issued a Request for Information (RFI) under the Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III aimed at exploring the capabilities of suppliers for the development and production of advanced canopy transparencies for various Department of Defense (DoD) weapon systems. These transparencies are critical subsystems requiring stringent performance standards for airworthiness and optical clarity. The RFI seeks domestic production capacity, design support, and advancements in manufacturing techniques that could address the low-volume and high-mix market dynamics typical of DoD platforms. It also emphasizes the need for a robust industrial base to secure supply chains and foster research and development capabilities. Responses will not guarantee future projects but may inform potential Title III actions. The DPA Title III allows for government investment in domestic production capabilities that meet national defense needs, outlining strict criteria that projects must satisfy. Interested parties must submit responses by July 31, 2025, with specified guidelines for content and format. Overall, this RFI is part of a broader effort to strengthen the defense industrial base and ensure reliable supply sources for critical technology needs.
    (Dist A) DPA Title III Request for Information on Advanced Canopy Transparencies.pdf
    The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) issues a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the development of advanced canopy transparencies critical for various Department of Defense (DoD) weapon systems. The RFI aims to evaluate the capabilities of suppliers for the design, manufacturing, and production of these components, which require high performance and durability standards to ensure airworthiness and effective target engagement. The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy seeks insights on domestic production capacity, technological advancements, and strategies for securing supply chains for essential materials. While responses will inform potential future projects under the Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III, participation does not guarantee funding or competitive advantage. The scope of the RFI is limited to domestic sources, emphasizing the need for investments that enhance the defense industrial base within a five-year framework, with typical funding between $5-20 million. Interested parties must submit responses by June 19, 2025, including company details and relevant expertise, with a maximum of 30 pages allowed for the response.
    (Dist A) DPA Title III Request for Information on Advanced Canopy Transperencies AMEND 1.pdf
    The Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III Request for Information (RFI) from the Air Force Research Laboratory seeks input on suppliers' capabilities for developing and producing advanced canopy transparencies for Department of Defense (DoD) weapon systems. These transparencies are essential for ensuring airworthiness and optical performance in various aircraft. The RFI aims to enhance the domestic production capacity and establish a robust supply chain for these critical components, given their unique design requirements and low production rates. Interested parties are invited to share technical capabilities, manufacturing advancements, and potential barriers by submitting responses by July 10, 2025. Responses will help inform future DPA Title III projects, although there's no guarantee of immediate funding or competitive advantage for participants. The document emphasizes the need for domestic production to bolster national security while adhering to stringent requirements for any proposed projects. Lastly, it states that all submissions must remain unclassified while allowing room for proprietary information as needed.
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