Sources Sought/Request for Information - Infill Radar Sensor for Wind Turbine Clutter Mitigation for Air Traffic Control
ID: RFI_InfillRadar_FA2330Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA2330 ARSPC MGNT SYSTMS AFLCMC/HBAHANSCOM AFB, MA, 01731, USA

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/ab98074d056549e7bb6aabbad5e25c4c/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, is seeking information from industry regarding radar systems capable of mitigating wind turbine clutter for air traffic control. The objective is to identify existing radar technologies that can enhance surveillance and improve coverage in areas affected by wind turbine interference, which poses significant challenges for air traffic safety and operational efficiency. This initiative is crucial as the rapid growth of wind energy in the U.S. has led to increased radar clutter, resulting in false plots and potential undetected aircraft over wind farms. Interested vendors must submit their detailed capability statements by February 17, 2025, with responses limited to 25 pages in PDF format. For further inquiries, contact Tiffany Hinson at tiffany.hinson.1@us.af.mil or Julie Tolek at julide.tolek@us.af.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Tiffany Hinson
    (781) 225-5215
    tiffany.hinson.1@us.af.mil
    Julie Tolek
    Julide.Tolek@us.af.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Infill Radar Qualification Requirements Document FINAL 20210921 AG.JR Sig.pdf
    The Infill Radar Qualification Requirements Document details a collaborative project between the FAA and USAF to develop a radar system intended to provide supplemental surveillance in areas affected by wind turbine interference. The document outlines specifications necessary for qualifying non-cooperative radar systems that can effectively mitigate clutter caused by wind turbines, which traditionally degrade radar performance, leading to erroneous air traffic control information. Key functional, informational, and performance requirements are established, covering areas such as aircraft detection, data processing, and resolution of targets amidst clutter. Specifications include necessary coverage volume, accuracy thresholds, detection probabilities, and guidelines for reliable system operation and maintenance. Additionally, it addresses security, quality assurance, and integration with existing FAA systems. The document serves as a foundational guide for both testing and evaluating the system's capabilities, ensuring that operational effectiveness aligns with air traffic control missions. This comprehensive framework is crucial for the successful implementation of the Infill Radar project within the National Airspace System, highlighting its importance in managing evolving airspace traffic challenges posed by renewable energy structures.
    Sources Sought_Infill Radar FINAL 1.docx
    The Air Traffic Systems Branch issued a Sources Sought/Request for Information (RFI) regarding an Infill Radar Sensor aimed at mitigating wind turbine clutter for air traffic control. The request is part of market research and is not a solicitation for proposals. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center seeks industry input on existing radar systems capable of addressing interference caused by wind turbines, which significantly impact radar operations and air traffic safety. Wind energy capacities in the U.S. have surged, leading to challenges for air traffic control systems, including false radar plots and the risk of aircraft being undetected over wind farms. The envisioned infill radar would enhance surveillance, reduce mid-air collision risks, and improve air traffic control coverage, thus supporting broader renewable energy initiatives. The RFI outlines expectations for technology demonstrations at government-selected test sites and requires vendors to provide detailed information on their radar systems, deployment plans, operational capabilities, and data management processes. The deadline for submissions is February 17, 2025, with specifications on content length and format provided. This initiative underscores the U.S. military’s efforts to integrate renewable energy while maintaining airspace safety and efficiency.
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