KC-135 Radio Altimeter 5G Filter RFI
ID: FA8105-24-R-0004Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8105 AFLCMC WKKTINKER AFB, OK, 73145-3303, USA

NAICS

Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing (336413)

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS AIRCRAFT ACCESSORIES AND COMPONENTS (1680)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), is seeking industry input for the KC-135 Radio Altimeter 5G Filter as part of a Request for Information (RFI) aimed at market research. The primary objective is to identify potential solutions for a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) 5G emissions filter that will protect the KC-135 aircraft's radio altimeter from interference caused by 5G technology. This initiative is critical for maintaining the operational integrity of the KC-135 fleet, which consists of 370 units, ensuring that they remain effective in a technologically evolving environment. Interested parties are invited to participate in a virtual Industry Day on October 3, 2024, and must submit their responses by September 26, 2024. For further inquiries, contact Jacob Booth at jacob.booth@us.af.mil or Trae Warcup at richard.warcup.1@us.af.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document addresses vendor inquiries regarding a government Request for Proposal (RFP) related to a modification project for avionics filters in the KC-135 aircraft fleet, which consists of 370 units. Key topics include the "Low Cost Mod" threshold, which must remain under $5 million, and clarification that EMP and nuclear certification are not required. The government confirms that the filters will be mounted inside the aircraft and outlines the vendor's responsibility for integration and testing, specifically referencing compliance with MIL STD 461 and 810 for airworthiness. The project is currently in the market research phase, with an acquisition strategy pending approval. There is an emphasis on gathering test data to meet specified requirements, and the agency encourages vendors to provide company backgrounds. All vendor questions will be shared with the wider industry to ensure transparency. Overall, the document serves as a preliminary communication to potential vendors, outlining essential requirements while soliciting input during the early stages of the procurement process.
    The KC-135 Program Office is hosting an Industry Day on October 3, 2024, to seek industry input on a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) 5G Emissions Filter to protect the aircraft's radio altimeter from interference caused by 5G technology. The event will occur virtually via Microsoft Teams and invites technology firms, government stakeholders, and experts in communications and cybersecurity to explore potential solutions. Key objectives include soliciting technological advancements, identifying sources with proven capabilities, fostering information exchanges within the program, and providing networking opportunities for collaboration among stakeholders. Participants will engage in technical discussions and one-on-one sessions to facilitate partnerships that enhance the KC-135's operational integrity against 5G interference. Response submissions are due by September 26, 2024, with additional details to follow. Contact points for further information include contracting officers and program managers listed in the document. This initiative is part of broader efforts to maintain a competitive advantage for warfighters through effective technology solutions.
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