RFI - Parachutist Emergency Release System (PERS)
ID: PERS-2025Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE ARMYW6QK ACC-APG NATICKNATICK, MA, 01760-5011, USA

NAICS

Hardware Manufacturing (332510)

PSC

PARACHUTES; AERIAL PICK UP, DELIVERY, RECOVERY SYSTEMS; AND CARGO TIE DOWN EQUIPMENT (1670)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/839e333fec054b2596468964e48a72fe/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army Natick Acquisition Center, is seeking information from manufacturers regarding the Parachutist Emergency Release System (PERS), aimed at enhancing safety during airborne operations. The PERS is designed to secure both conscious and unconscious parachutists being towed, addressing critical capability gaps identified in current systems. This initiative is vital for improving operational safety and efficiency in emergency scenarios, with plans to acquire 506 systems following successful testing. Interested vendors must have a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 or higher and are encouraged to integrate existing technologies. Responses to the Request for Information (RFI) are due by January 27, 2025, and inquiries should be directed to Michael Harris at michael.l.harris88.civ@army.mil or Michael Quinlan at michael.j.quinlan3.civ@army.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Michael Harris
    michael.l.harris88.civ@army.mil
    Michael Quinlan
    michael.j.quinlan3.civ@army.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    RFI for PERS.pdf
    The U.S. Army Natick Acquisition Center has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to identify manufacturers for a Parachutist Emergency Release System (PERS) intended to enhance safety for airborne operations. The PERS aims to secure conscious and unconscious parachutists being towed, addressing identified capability gaps. With a goal of acquiring 506 systems post-testing, only vendors with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7 or higher will be considered. The document outlines key performance parameters and desirable attributes, including system reliability, altitude loss, weight capacity, descent rate, installation ease, repack cycle, and lifecycle tracking. Respondents must demonstrate production capabilities and provide supporting information. The Army encourages integration with an existing technology, a snap hook probe capable of interfacing with airborne cables, to ensure operational effectiveness. The submission deadline for responses is 27 January 2025, and all inquiries should be directed to the provided point of contact. This RFI serves to collect information rather than issue a solicitation, aiming to enhance the Army's operational capabilities in aerial maneuvers while ensuring safety and efficiency in emergency scenarios.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    RFI - Parachutist Emergency Release System (PERS)
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