Request for Information - Accelerated Development of the Second Generation Anti-Jam Tactical UHF Radio for NATO (SATURN) Enhanced Data Rate (SEDR) Waveform

The Request for Information (RFI) from the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Aerial Networks Division (AFLCMC/C3N) seeks to identify potential contractors for the accelerated development of the Second Generation Anti-Jam Tactical UHF Radio for NATO (SATURN) Enhanced Data Rate (SEDR) Waveform. This RFI is for market research and planning purposes only, not a solicitation for proposals. The government is looking for sources with expertise in designing, developing, and prototyping waveform algorithms and functions, specifically for the SEDR waveform. Tasks may include development, analysis, and testing of SEDR radios, focusing on features like Physical Layer, MANET, IP Interface, COMSEC, TRANSEC, Modeling and Simulation, Hardware Development, and Information Assurance. Vendors are requested to submit information on their technical capabilities, experience in Software Defined Radio (SDR) and waveform development, security and cryptographic integration, and development/test processes by April 20, 2026. Corporate information, including contracting personnel, CAGE Code, DUNS Number, and business size, is also required.

This RFI addresses the development of the Saturn Enhanced Data Rate (SEDR) waveform, a distinct effort from a previous December RFI focused on porting a finished waveform. The government has extended the response deadline to May 22, 2026, and the question deadline to May 7, 2026. This RFI seeks industry expertise to accelerate waveform refinement, with partners collaborating with a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) to review existing work, recommend improvements, and define a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for rapid initial deployment and iterative upgrades. The government plans to transition this development-focused RFI into a formal Request for Proposal (RFP).

This Air Force Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) outlines the terms for individuals accessing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). It defines CUI as government-created or possessed information requiring safeguarding or dissemination controls under law, regulation, or government-wide policy, excluding classified information. Signers acknowledge understanding and agreeing to conditions for CUI access, including non-disclosure to unauthorized parties, adherence to protection standards (32 CFR Part 2002, Air Force guidance, and applicable LRGWP), and prompt reporting of any unauthorized disclosures. The agreement emphasizes that these obligations are perpetual while the information remains controlled, with potential civil and criminal sanctions for breaches. It also assigns royalties from unauthorized disclosures to the U.S. Government, which can seek legal remedies to enforce the agreement.

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Aerial Networks Division (AFLCMC/C3N) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify sources capable of supporting the Accelerated Development of the Second Generation Anti-Jam Tactical UHF Radio for NATO (SATURN) Enhanced Data Rate (SEDR) Waveform. This RFI seeks vendors with expertise in designing, developing, and prototyping key algorithms and functions for waveforms, specifically the SEDR waveform. The government is interested in capabilities related to Physical Layer, MANET features, IP Interface Issues, COMSEC, TRANSEC, Modeling and Simulation, Hardware Development/Prototyping, and Information Assurance boundary issues. Interested vendors must submit documentation by May 22, 2026, detailing their technical capability and experience in areas such as Software Defined Radio (SDR) development, waveform types, security and cryptographic integration, classified development, facility clearance, and development/test processes. Corporate information, including company contacts, CAGE code, DUNS number, NAICS code, and small business classification, is also required. This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract.