Request for Solutions (RFS): Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) Other Transaction (OT) Opportunity
ID: W91CRB-25-S-SBMC-RFSType: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE ARMYW6QK ACC-APGABERDEEN PROVING GROU, MD, 21005-5001, USA

NAICS

Other Communications Equipment Manufacturing (334290)

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT (5895)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground, is seeking innovative solutions for the Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) initiative, aimed at developing a fused digital awareness system for enhanced situational awareness and mission command in dismounted operations. This opportunity involves a competitive Request for Solutions (RFS) process utilizing Other Transaction Authority (OTA) for rapid prototyping projects, where vendors are required to submit white papers detailing their proposed solutions, focusing on technical merit and compatibility with existing Army architectures. The initiative underscores the Army's commitment to leveraging advanced technology to improve operational effectiveness, with prototypes expected to be delivered within seven months of award, and white paper submissions due by 5:00 PM ET on May 12, 2025. Interested vendors can direct inquiries to Eric Roberts at eric.j.roberts48.civ@army.mil or Michael Kelly at michael.j.kelly99.civ@army.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The SBMC Request for Solutions CUI Document Request Form is a vendor solicitation tool used by federal agencies to collect essential information about potential suppliers. It requires vendors to submit their company name, address, point of contact details (name, phone number, and email), and specific identifiers such as the Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Code and Unique Entity ID from SAM.gov. Additionally, vendors must categorize their business size and type, including options for small-disadvantaged and veteran-owned businesses. The form also queries vendors on their designations under Title 10 US Code, capabilities to demonstrate functional hardware, and whether they hold a Facility Clearance at a minimum of Secret Level. Lastly, it inquires about the possession of a current approved DD Form 2345 concerning Military Critical Technology Data. This document structuredly captures critical vendor information necessary for compliance, security, and qualification in federal contracting processes, thus streamlining the evaluation of potential contractors and ensuring adherence to federal requirements.
    The Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) Other Transaction Opportunity seeks innovative technical solutions for a digital situational awareness system compatible with existing Army architectures. Managed by the Army Contracting Command, this initiative aims to rapidly prototype enhancements for dismounted operations at the Company level and below. Interested vendors, including Non-Traditional Defense Contractors (NTDCs) and small businesses, are invited to submit proposals through a phased process that includes white papers, solution demonstrations, and prototype proposals. The project encompasses designing, building, and testing prototypes compatible with emerging Army technologies and allows for iterative development of new features. Prototypes are expected to be delivered within seven months of award. The evaluation will focus on the technical merit, risk management, and cost-effectiveness of the proposals, with a strong emphasis on innovation. The solicitation emphasizes a non-Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) approach, allows multiple awards, and encourages collaboration among vendors to achieve optimal solutions. Interested parties must comply with security and data management guidelines throughout the project to ensure compliance with federal regulations. This RFS reflects the Army's commitment to advancing technological capabilities by leveraging industry expertise.
    The Soldier Borne Mission Command (SBMC) is a U.S. Army initiative aimed at developing an advanced digital awareness system for improved situational awareness and mission command in dismounted operations. The Army is seeking innovative solutions through a competitive Request for Solutions (RFS) process, utilizing Other Transaction Authority (OTA) to award agreements for rapid prototyping projects. Vendors are required to submit white papers detailing their proposed SBMC solutions, focusing on their technical merit and compatibility with existing Army architectures. The RFS employs a two-phased competitive process: initially, vendors submit white papers, which may lead to solution demonstrations, and subsequently to formal proposals for prototype agreements. To be eligible for OTA awards, vendors must meet specific participation criteria, particularly involving non-traditional defense contractors and small businesses. Rigorous evaluation criteria prioritize technical innovation, risk assessment, and cost-effectiveness. The document outlines submission guidelines, evaluation standards, and the expectations for timelines and deliverables. The Government maintains discretion over the number of awards and reserves the right to cancel the opportunity if necessary. This initiative signifies the Army's commitment to leveraging advanced technology and market innovations to enhance operational effectiveness and support ongoing defense capabilities.
    The document outlines the requirements for vendors submitting a white paper on their Soldier Borne Modular Computing (SBMC) solution in response to a Request for Solutions (RFS). It mandates a one-page executive summary detailing the technical approach, features, and expected benefits. Key sections include a comprehensive technical approach that covers system design, human factors, compatibility with existing military technology, and software integration, including specific compliance with standards and commercial component incorporation. Vendors are also required to detail their systems engineering strategies, program management structure, risk management assessments, and relevant experience. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to optimize system performance, weight, power consumption, and various technological advancements for improved situational awareness. Appendices provide supplementary diagrams and modeling criteria to guide the submissions. Overall, the document delineates a structured framework for vendors to present their SBMC solutions, aiming to develop effective computing systems for military applications, ensuring compliance with operational requirements and interoperability with existing technologies.
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