Request For Information_IVAS Next (SBMC)
ID: RFI-2_W91CRB_IVASNEXTType: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE ARMY

NAICS

Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing (334290)

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS (5999)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground, is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) Next, aimed at enhancing soldiers' operational capabilities through advanced technology solutions. This RFI seeks industry input on the development and manufacturing of the IVAS Next, which is intended to improve soldiers' lethality, mobility, and situational awareness, thereby providing a strategic advantage over adversaries. Interested vendors are required to submit detailed technical solutions, including system design, features, and risk management approaches, with responses due by February 26, 2025. For further inquiries, vendors may contact Karen Gibson at karen.gibson2.civ@army.mil or Michael J. Kelly at michael.j.kelly99.civ@army.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
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    The U.S. Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) Next, seeking industry input on capabilities to develop and manufacture this advanced system. The RFI aims to assess potential prime contractors for the IVAS Next, intended to enhance soldiers' lethality, mobility, and situational awareness, thereby providing an advantage over current and future adversaries. Responses should include narrative descriptions and may optionally contain hardware samples, adhering to specified formatting and content guidelines. Notably, this RFI does not constitute an obligation to issue a subsequent Request for Proposal (RFP) and does not mandate feedback on submissions. Additionally, it specifies that responses must avoid classified information and indicates that cost proposals will only be requested in a future RFP. Sample hardware submissions must follow detailed instructions for shipping and documentation and will be returned to the vendors after a grace period. Interested vendors must respond by February 26, 2025, by email, following designated protocols to ensure compliance. This RFI emphasizes the government's commitment to exploring advanced technology solutions for military applications while managing industry participation effectively.
    The Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) Next Request for Information (RFI) seeks vendor submissions detailing technical solutions for the IVAS Next System. Vendors are required to present a one-page executive summary followed by comprehensive narratives covering key components. These include system design, features such as heads-up displays and night vision, human-machine integration, and interoperability with existing communication networks. Vendors must also outline their systems engineering approach, focusing on modular design and model-based methodologies while addressing cost, software development practices, and extensibility. The document emphasizes program management strategies, including security protocols, manufacturing capabilities, and data rights. Quality assurance and product support strategies, including maintenance concepts and resource management, are also essential components. Additionally, vendors are to provide a risk management approach and demonstrate relevant experience in developing soldier-borne devices, augmented reality systems, and training tools. Lastly, projections on technology readiness and performance metrics are required, underscoring the need for innovation and effectiveness in the IVAS Next initiative aimed at enhancing operational capabilities for military personnel.
    The Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) Request for Information (RFI) seeks industry feedback following the previous IVAS Next RFI and Virtual Industry Day. The U.S. government plans to launch a full competition for the SBMC system, requiring technical and cost proposals from participants. Key deliverables for technical proposals include thermal and low light modeling data, system architecture diagrams, functional sample hardware, and a comprehensive explanation of the approach to design, testing, and production. The government aims to conduct evaluations based on prototypes, focusing on performance metrics such as sensor functionality, display performance, and compatibility with weapon systems. Up to two awards may be granted based on a best value tradeoff, with prototypes expected within seven months of initial awards for government testing. The submission deadline for responses is set for 13 March 2025, with a firm requirement that no late submissions will be considered. This RFI serves informational and planning purposes only and does not commit the government to issue a solicitation or contract.
    The Soldier-Borne Mission Command (SBMC) Industry Questionnaire solicits feedback from industry stakeholders regarding the SBMC effort, previously referred to as IVAS Next. It requests essential information from vendors, including contact details, business size, and relevant NAICS codes. Key questions probe whether the respondent intends to act as a prime contractor, if they will join a teaming arrangement, and whether they prefer a Federal Acquisition Regulation procurement or an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA). The questionnaire also inquires about conditions necessary for an OTA, potential contracting incentives, desired prototype delivery timelines, and any difficulties in meeting the SBMC requirements as outlined in earlier government documentation. Additionally, it seeks information necessary for the development of a viable SBMC solution. The document underscores the government's intent to gather proprietary industry insights while emphasizing a collaborative approach in advancing mission command capabilities. Responses are confidential and intended solely for government evaluation. Overall, the questionnaire reflects the government's strategy in shaping the procurement process while encouraging industry participation.
    Lifecycle
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    Special Notice
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