Low-Cost High-Speed Air-to-Air Missile RFI
ID: AFLCMC-EB-25-RFI01Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8659 AFLCMC EBIEGLIN AFB, FL, 32542-6883, USA

NAICS

Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing (336414)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of the Air Force is seeking industry partners to provide information for the development of a Low-Cost High-Speed Air-to-Air Missile, aimed at enhancing the Air Force's operational capabilities globally. The initiative focuses on creating a prototype missile that is cost-effective, utilizing high technology readiness level components while maximizing the reuse of existing resources to improve range and loadout capabilities. This RFI is crucial for identifying potential solutions that can integrate with various aircraft, including the F-15EX and F-16, and aims to establish a production capacity of 1,000 units within 24 months at a target price of $250,000 or less per lot. Interested parties must submit their responses by June 2, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Lt Col Clair "YETI" Corbin at clair.corbin@us.af.mil or Jill Harms at jill.harms.1@us.af.mil, with preliminary questions due by May 16, 2025.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Lt Col Clair "YETI" Corbin
    clair.corbin@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The document announces an "Ask Me Anything" event scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, at 1300 CST, which will be recorded, and all questions and responses will be publicly posted as an amendment to the announcement. This one-hour session is designed to address inquiries regarding a particular federal RFP. Participants can join through a provided Microsoft Teams link or dial in by phone using specified meeting IDs and passcodes. The document outlines logistical details including meeting accessibility options via phone, information for conference call options, and support resources for participants. The overall purpose of the event is to facilitate transparency and communication concerning the RFP process, encouraging engagement from interested parties.
    The "Ask Me Anything" event, scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, at 1300 CDT, aims to address questions related to federal RFPs. This one-hour session will be recorded, and all inquiries along with their answers will be published as an amendment to the event posting. Participants can join via Microsoft Teams using the provided link, meeting ID, and passcode for virtual attendance. For those preferring dial-in options, a phone number and conference ID are included. The event is an opportunity for individuals to seek clarifications and gain insights regarding ongoing federal initiatives, particularly relevant to the context of government grants and proposals at federal, state, and local levels. The session emphasizes the importance of transparency and accessibility in federal contracting processes, ensuring stakeholders are well-informed.
    The Department of the Air Force is seeking industry input through a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the development of a Low-Cost High-Speed Air-to-Air Missile. This initiative aims to identify potential partners capable of delivering a prototype that adheres to cost-effective integration while maximizing reuse of existing high-readiness weapon systems. The target design is to resemble the AIM-120 AMRAAM, ideally half its size to enhance aircraft loadout without compromising range. Vendors are expected to provide a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost estimation and layout a delivery schedule while considering possibilities for production, specifically targeting an All Up Round cost of $250,000 for 1,000 units within 24 months post-award. Key specifications include compatibility with various aircraft, such as the F-16 and F-15E, and the incorporation of technologies ensuring supersonic to hypersonic flight capabilities. Responses should illustrate vendors' capabilities and experience alongside any proposed solutions that might differ from stated requirements but align with the overarching goal of the RFI. This document serves primarily for information and planning, and it does not obligate the government to enter into a contract.
    The government Request for Information (RFI) seeks industry input for developing a new air-to-air missile system comparable to the AIM-120 AMRAAM. Key parameters include size, with a diameter of approximately 7 inches and a length of 144 inches; weight limits capped at 370 lbs; and integration possibilities with existing launchers like those on F-15EX and F-16 Block 40 or later variants. The RFI emphasizes a modular design, aiming for affordability and usability across 4th to 6th generation platforms, particularly for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs). Current goals are to gather industry capabilities, establish a production capacity of 1,000 units within 24 months, and assess the feasibility of export options. The document is open regarding specific design and performance criteria, encouraging innovative proposals that prioritize cost while meeting the intended operational requirements. The government clarifies that there is no predetermined funding or formal contract strategy, viewing the RFI as a market research tool to guide future strategy for potential missile procurement and development. Responses should include any assumptions made due to the intentionally broad guidelines set forth.
    The Department of the Air Force's Air Force Materiel Command has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential industry partners for developing a Low-Cost High-Speed Air-to-Air Missile. This RFI is for information and planning purposes only, not a solicitation for proposals. The goal is to create a prototype missile at a lower cost by utilizing high technology readiness level components while maximizing existing resources to enhance range and loadout capabilities. Interested companies should demonstrate their ability to produce 1,000 All Up Rounds (AURs) within 24 months, adhering to a target price of $250,000 or less per lot. Responses should include capabilities statements detailing target specifications, integration with various aircraft (such as the F-16 and F-15E), and alternative testing platforms. A two-cycle design phase may lead to production within the suggested schedule. Vendors must also provide a Rough Order of Magnitude cost estimate and are encouraged to explore teaming arrangements. Specifications related to speed, range, reliability, and compatibility with current aerospace technologies are key considerations. Responses are due by June 2, 2025, with preliminary inquiries accepted until May 16, 2025, as part of the information-gathering process.
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