Personnel Recovery with Next-Generation PLB Technology – PRSS 1b Request for Information (RFI)
ID: W58RGZ-25-PRSS-PRDType: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE ARMYW6QK ACC-RSAREDSTONE ARSENAL, AL, 35898-0000, USA

NAICS

Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing (334511)

Set Aside

No Set aside used (NONE)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/94358b96047343278bda478bb7d58fe0/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Army Contracting Command at Redstone Arsenal, is seeking industry feedback for the development of a next-generation Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) known as the Personnel Recovery Device (PRD). The objective is to procure 75,000 units over a five-year contract starting in the first quarter of FY2026, aimed at enhancing personnel recovery capabilities for warfighters by leveraging advanced technology to improve recovery rates. This initiative is critical for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military operations, as the PRD must comply with COSPAS-SARSAT standards and demonstrate superior performance metrics compared to existing technologies. Interested parties are required to submit a concise response by July 7, 2025, including company details and capabilities, to Ms. Kelly Bayha or Mr. Joe Pollard via email, as this request serves solely for market research and does not constitute a commitment to contract award.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    SOURCES SOUGHT Personnel Recovery with Next-Generation PLB Technology RFI.pdf
    The Army Contracting Command is seeking industry feedback through a Sources Sought/Request for Information (RFI) for the development of a next-generation Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) known as the Personnel Recovery Device (PRD). This initiative aims to procure 75,000 units over a five-year contract beginning in FY2026 to enhance personnel recovery capabilities for warfighters. Key requirements for the PRD include compliance with COSPAS-SARSAT standards, improved accuracy, reduced latency, and a smaller design compared to existing technology. Interested parties must submit a concise response by July 7, 2025, including company details, a capabilities overview, production timelines, and participation intent. Additionally, they are requested to provide insights on the appropriateness of the NAICS code, in-house capacity for project delivery, and their intended role as a prime or subcontractor. This RFI serves to collect market research and is not a solicitation or commitment to contract award. The government encourages responses that will shape the future acquisition strategy for this critical life-saving technology.
    Similar Opportunities
    Personnel Recovery Mission Software (PRMS) Sustainment Support
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking sustainment support for the Personnel Recovery Mission Software (PRMS). This procurement is justified as an Other Than Full and Open Competition, indicating a specialized need for ongoing support services related to program management. The PRMS is critical for enhancing personnel recovery operations, ensuring that the necessary software remains functional and effective for mission success. Interested parties can reach out to Desiree Logan at desiree.logan@us.af.mil or A. Nicole Black at aimee.black@us.af.mil for further details regarding this opportunity, which is based in Michigan (ZIP code 48045).
    RECEIVER TRANSMITTER
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency, is seeking proposals for the procurement of Receiver Transmitters, specifically for the B-2 aircraft. This contract involves the supply of 14 units of the Receiver Transmitter, which facilitates two-way voice communication between the aircraft and other vehicles or surface stations, and is constructed from metal alloy with electronic components. Interested vendors should note that the estimated issue date for the Request for Proposal (RFP SPRTA1-26-R-0134) is December 26, 2025, with a closing date of January 26, 2026, and inquiries can be directed to Michael Hannan at Michael.Hannan.1@us.af.mil or by phone at 385-591-3092. The contract will not be set aside for small businesses, and all proposals must be submitted within 45 days of the notice publication.
    Request for Information – Small Form Factor Component Technologies for a C-sUAS Interceptor
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army Contracting Command at Redstone Arsenal, is seeking information on small form factor component technologies for a Counter-Small Unmanned Aircraft System (C-sUAS) interceptor through a Request for Information (RFI). The objective is to gather data on existing missile component technologies, including seekers, Control Actuation Systems (CAS), batteries, and Guidance Navigation Units/Inertial Measurement Units (GNU/IMU), that meet specific performance and production criteria, such as a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5 or greater and compatibility with missile diameters of 40mm to 70mm. This initiative is crucial in addressing the evolving threats posed by small unmanned aircraft systems in modern warfare, aiming to enhance the Army's capabilities in missile defense. Interested parties must submit their responses, including a technical white paper and an Excel data sheet, by 11:00 AM CST on December 19, 2025, to the primary contact, Ms. Tammy J. Benson, at tammy.j.benson.civ@army.mil.
    58--BEACON,DISTRESS
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Aviation), is seeking quotes for the procurement of 10 units of the distress beacon (NSN 5820017230289). This solicitation is part of a combined synopsis/solicitation process, and the approved source for this item is identified as 30941 101166-2 KIT. The distress beacon is crucial for communication and detection in emergency situations, underscoring its importance in defense operations. Interested vendors must submit their quotes electronically, as hard copies of the solicitation will not be available, and all inquiries should be directed to the buyer via email at DibbsBSM@dla.mil. The deadline for quote submission is set for 134 days after the award date.
    59 - Switch, Reed
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Land and Maritime), is seeking offers for the procurement of 149 units of Reed Switches, identified by purchase request number 7003629302 and NSN 5930-01-510-9740. The solicitation is expected to be issued around December 2, 2025, with a response deadline on or about January 8, 2026, and will be available for download on the DLA's DIBBS website approximately 15 days after publication. These switches are critical components used in various military and commercial applications, and the government is not utilizing the policies for the acquisition of commercial items for this procurement. Interested vendors are encouraged to express their capabilities to meet the requirements and may contact Brian Maxwell at brian.maxwell@dla.mil or by phone at 614-693-0362 for further inquiries.
    Request for Information - Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing System (MAPS) GEN II Production and Sustainment IDIQ
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army Program Executive Office Intelligence, Electronic Warfare & Sensors (PEO IEW&S), is seeking sources for the Mounted Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing System (MAPS) Generation II through a Request for Information (RFI). The objective is to gather feedback and identify potential prime contractors capable of providing assured PNT to warfighters and combat platforms, particularly in GPS-contested environments. This system is crucial for enabling mission execution across the Army, as it supports various combat and combat service support missions. Interested parties must submit a white paper by January 19, 2026, detailing their capabilities, including production plans, technical documentation, and quality management systems, while also completing a security questionnaire to access further documentation. For inquiries, contact Charles Compton at charles.t.compton5.civ@army.mil or Lori Andrese at lori.r.andrese.civ@army.mil.
    58--BEACON,DISTRESS
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA Aviation), is seeking quotes for the procurement of 137 units of the distress beacon (NSN 5820016676007). This solicitation is aimed at acquiring essential communication and detection equipment, specifically designed for use in emergency situations. The approved source for this procurement is GLOBALFIX V6 CAT I, and all responsible sources are encouraged to submit their quotes electronically, as hard copies will not be available. Interested parties should direct any inquiries to the primary contact at DibbsBSM@dla.mil, with quotes due within 78 days after the award date.
    Amended Request for Information (RFI) – Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) for Ground/Maritime Search and Rescue
    Dept Of Defense
    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), is seeking information on small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) for ground and maritime search and rescue operations. The objective is to identify systems that can provide organic Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to enhance communication, threat detection, and personnel location in contested environments. These systems are crucial for Air Force Rescue Forces, particularly in scenarios where traditional aircraft may be denied access, such as in dense foliage or maritime conditions. Interested parties should submit their responses to the Request for Information (RFI) FA8629-25-R-6004 by July 25, 2025, and can contact Marissa Greenleaf at marissa.greenleaf@us.af.mil or Bradford Kenney at bradford.kenney.1.ctr@us.af.mil for further details.
    SPRRA224R0081 PATRIOT SPARES – LOCKHEED MARTIN SOLE SOURCE
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is soliciting proposals for the procurement of supplies related to the Patriot Missile System, with Lockheed Martin identified as the sole source provider for specific items. The procurement involves a Firm Fixed Price supply contract, emphasizing compliance with military specifications, including First Article Testing (FAT) and strict packaging requirements. This opportunity is critical for maintaining the operational readiness of defense systems, ensuring that high-quality materials are sourced from established suppliers. The proposal due date has been extended to January 14, 2026, at 3:00 PM, and interested parties should contact Theresa Beshenich at theresa.beshenich@dla.mil or Becky Brady at becky.brady@dla.mil for further information.
    SPRRA225R0002 MLRS SPARES
    Dept Of Defense
    The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is soliciting proposals for the procurement of MLRS spares under solicitation SPRRA225R0002, with a focus on firm fixed-price supply contracts. This procurement is critical for maintaining the operational readiness of the U.S. Army's missile systems, ensuring that necessary components are available for effective defense operations. The proposal due date has been extended to January 19, 2026, at 5:00 PM, allowing potential offerors additional time to prepare their submissions. Interested parties should contact Mari Bretz at hecmari.bretz@dla.mil or Becky Brady at becky.brady@dla.mil for further information regarding the solicitation and its requirements.