Helpful Airborne Wireless Communication Ecosystem Yielding Enhanced Sharing (HAWCEYES).

The Air Force Test Center (AFTC) at Edwards AFB, CA, has issued a Request for Information (RFI), HAWCEYES, to gather industry capabilities for commercial items related to HELPFUL AIRBORNE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION ECOSYSTEM YIELDING ENHANCED SHARING. This RFI is not a request for quotation or invitation for bid, but rather a sources sought synopsis to inform the AFTC's acquisition strategy. The AFTC anticipates awarding a contract under NAICS 334220 and PSC 5985, requiring SAM.gov registration. Interested parties are invited to submit capability statements detailing their experience on similar government or commercial contracts, business size, CAGE code/DUNS, and a list of relevant agreements. The AFTC will not pay for submitted information. Responses, limited to 10 double-spaced pages in Microsoft Word format, must be unclassified and non-proprietary. Submissions are due by April 21, 09:00 A.M. PDT, via email to Karina Alvarez (karina.alvarez.4@us.af.mil) and Amanda Tate (amanda.tate@us.af.mil).

The 418th Flight Test Squadron (418FLTS) at Edwards Air Force Base is seeking proposals for the Helpful Airborne Wireless Communication Ecosystem Yielding Enhanced Sharing (HAWCEYES) project. The objective is to design and build a portable, self-contained wireless communication network for test missions with up to 32 individuals on aircraft like the C-17, KC-135, and KC-46. The system must use 802.11xx (wifi) and/or Bluetooth protocols with a minimum 30-meter range, be battery-powered for at least 30 minutes (60 desired) with 115VAC plug-in capability, and utilize commercial VOIP software compatible with iOS and Android. It must also connect to the aircraft's intercom system via U-174 connector. The contractor is responsible for providing design specifications, delivering two copies for ground checkouts, and offering on-site support for troubleshooting and tuning, potentially during flight tests. Administrative requirements include initial design coordination within 90 days of contract award, with final product delivery 90 days after design agreement. Contractor personnel will require background checks, base access credentials, and adherence to security, safety, and antiterrorism regulations, including AT Level I training.