Theater Deployable Communications Agile Communications Package - Enhanced (TDC ACP-E)

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Cyber and Networks Directorate (HN) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for its Theater Deployable Communications (TDC) Agile Communications Package Enhanced (ACP-E) program. This RFI, dated October 8, 2025, is for market research purposes only and does not obligate the U.S. Government to award a contract. The goal is to enhance the existing ACP-E through rapid prototyping using commercially available products. The document includes background on TDC's role in extending the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN) and specific questions for respondents regarding their status as traditional/non-traditional defense contractors, small businesses, Trusted Integrators, and experience with various technical solutions like CSfC systems and Active Directory Federation. Respondents are also asked to provide a rough order of magnitude (ROM) for a scenario involving 12 ACP-E sites. Responses, limited to 10 pages, should be submitted via email to Ms. Lynn Tran and Capt Velia Colunga.

The Statement of Objectives (SOO) outlines the U.S. Air Force's Theater Deployable Communications (TDC) Agile Communications Package Enhanced (ACP-E) initiative. The program aims to modernize and enhance existing deployable communication systems through a "try, decide, buy" rapid-prototyping approach, leveraging commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) solutions. The primary objectives include identifying and evaluating technical solutions for a tactical mesh network that integrates with current compute and store edge nodes, providing dynamic connectivity across various platforms. The project seeks solutions capable of 100 Mbps throughput over a 10-mile radius, iterative expansion, and compliance with MILSPEC810 and NSA-approved encryption, all while reducing transit case weight. The SOO also details procurement plans for both existing and enhanced ACP versions and outlines requirements for contractor support during operational evaluations, including participation in technical and safety reviews and data provision.

The provided document outlines the hardware and software components for a TDC GFP system, likely detailing specifications for a government Request for Proposal (RFP) or a similar procurement document. Key hardware includes Panasonic management laptops, various PacStar series devices for servers and switches, and a PacStar 463 for RoIP SIPR. The software suite specifies Windows 11, Cisco C8000v for routing, Aruba VMC for NIPR WiFi, Forcepoint NGFW for firewall capabilities, Windows Server for domain control, Wave for SIPR RoIP, Redcom Sigma Core for VoIP, ACAS for security scanning, ESS for HIPS, IQ-CORE for system management, and Redhat as a hypervisor for virtual software. The document also mentions a File Server and virtual router, providing a comprehensive overview of the required IT infrastructure.

The document discusses the integration and deployment of various communication technologies, including Cisco 8000V, MILSAT, and Mesh radio systems, within multiple enclaves (NIPR, SIPR, and GRAY) and their corresponding hardware setups (laptops, switches). It emphasizes the ability of certain FACTs (Flexible and Adaptive Communication Technologies) to maintain connectivity while relocating to different sites. Overall, it outlines the infrastructure necessary for a robust communication network in secure environments.

The document outlines the integration and capabilities of various communication tech, including MILSAT MBK (4G/5G) Mesh antennas and Cisco 8000V laptops, in SIPR and NIPR enclaves. It emphasizes the ability of FACTs to relocate to different sites while maintaining connectivity. Additionally, it addresses various mesh radio configurations and site extension technologies for secure communication.

The document outlines a non-mesh enabled scenario involving various equipment and communication enclaves, including Cisco 8000V and laptops operating within NIPR and SIPR enclaves. It emphasizes the capability of FACTs to physically relocate to their designated sites while maintaining WAN connectivity. The overall focus is on the integration of military and commercial communication systems.