NATO Request for Information: Next Generation (NG) Wireless (other than SATCOM) Services

The Headquarters Supreme Allied Commander Transformation (HQ SACT) has issued a Request for Information (RFI-ACT-SACT-25-25) to solicit input from industry, academia, and NATO nations regarding the development of Next Generation Wireless (NG Wireless) capabilities, excluding satellite communications (SATCOM). This RFI aims to gather insights on existing and emerging wireless technologies, systems, and methodologies that could support NATO's digital transformation and enhance its capabilities for multi-domain operations. Responses are requested by May 14, 2025, with questions allowed until April 16, 2025. Participants' cost of responding will not be reimbursed, and information shared may be disclosed to third parties involved in capability development. The engagement under this RFI supports NATO's governance model by fostering collaboration with external stakeholders and will aid in assessing whether to adopt, buy or create necessary capabilities. Participants are encouraged to supply not only their capabilities and contact details but also any relevant technical documentation. Ultimately, the RFI is not a procurement commitment but serves to inform NATO's future operational requirements for NG Wireless systems while ensuring transparency and fair competition among contractors. It emphasizes the need for collaboration while securing proprietary information throughout the process.

The Maritime Line-of-Sight Access Points (MLOS) proposal outlines a conceptual design to enhance maritime communication capabilities, reducing reliance on SATCOM and improving operational coordination between NATO and national forces. Emphasizing synergy among stakeholders, the proposal identifies the necessity for fit-for-purpose solutions that accommodate varying levels of ambition. Key operational needs involve developing infrastructure that integrates with existing capabilities, aiming for an Initial Operating Capability (IOC) that utilizes readily available technologies. The design must address significant challenges, including security, interoperability, and coverage, leveraging Next Generation Networks (NGN) like IMT/5G to meet requirements for scalability and capability. Deployments may vary between trusted and untrusted infrastructure, impacting metadata security and service management. Proposed solutions include network slicing to ensure segregation of NATO metadata from commercial networks, ultimately aiming to provide a coherent, resilient MLOS capability while acknowledging the complex balance between operational needs, security, and investment costs. The document serves as a roadmap for future discussions and decisions regarding MLOS development aligned with NATO operational requirements.

The NATO Request for Information (RFI) seeks to gather insights into wireless capabilities, focusing on the supply chain supporting the Next Generation (NG) Wireless Capability Programme. The initiative, led by NATO HQ Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, aims to enhance wireless communications systems that are resilient, secure, and aligned with NATO's digital transformation goals. The RFI invites industry and academia to propose innovative solutions that fulfill operational needs, facilitating informed planning and investment for NATO defense and civil missions. Participants are asked to complete a survey outlining their organization’s experience with wireless systems, compliance with NATO standards, and any legal considerations impacting their solutions. The RFI encourages thorough responses to aid in the Analysis of Alternatives that will assess various capabilities in meeting NATO’s strategic requirements. Important guidelines emphasize the importance of not including proprietary information and detail on the submission process to designated points of contact. This document highlights NATO’s ongoing commitment to integrating advanced technologies to support multi-domain operations and bolster coalition partnerships.