RFI - Satellite Communication device

The Statement of Objective (SOO) outlines the need for a satellite-based communication solution to ensure uninterrupted, secure, and real-time connectivity for USMMA midshipmen during their Sea Year, including remote locations. The objective is to facilitate academic, safety, and operational coordination globally. The scope requires a flexible maritime communication solution, potentially including dedicated satellite devices (e.g., Iridium, Inmarsat) or satellite-enabled mobile services (e.g., Starlink Direct-to-Cell). Key requirements include 100% global coverage, two-way voice and text, group messaging, real-time location tracking, emergency alerting, and a Service Level Agreement (SLA) with 99.9% uptime. The solution must support both ruggedized satellite phones and standard smartphones with satellite add-on services, and provide a centralized dashboard for monitoring and communication. Deliverables include a fully operational system, a web-based dashboard, training, and monthly reports. The document also mentions the process for federal procurement, including market research, estimated costs, and GSA vendor considerations, with an estimated quantity of around 1,000 devices.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) is seeking information for a flexible maritime communication solution to provide continuous global connectivity for Midshipmen on Sea Year. This Request for Information (RFI) is for market research purposes, asking interested contractors to submit capability statements and respond to 41 questions. Key areas of inquiry include global coverage (including nearshore and offshore), service types (voice, SMS, data, emergency signaling), data throughput and latency, service level agreements, outage notification, security controls, and 24/7 technical support. The RFI also asks about device-specific features like handset models, centralized management, ruggedization, and warranty terms. Service-specific questions cover pooled data plans, APIs, integration with government systems, scaling flexibility, contract terms, and handling personnel changes. Additionally, the RFI seeks information on business status (small business, NAICS codes), GSA schedules, educational discounts, regulatory compliance, volume discounts, onboarding timelines, known limitations, and continuous service during disruptions. Responses are due by October 24, 2025.