Sensor Agnostic Emulator and Trainer (SAET)
ID: FA8527-25-R-SAETType: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8527 AFLCMC C3IAKROBINS AFB, GA, 31098-2122, USA

NAICS

Engineering Services (541330)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is conducting market research to identify potential sources for the Sensor Agnostic Emulator and Trainer (SAET) to support the Air Force Distributed Common Ground System (AF DCGS). The primary objective of this procurement is to develop, modernize, integrate, and sustain a mission simulation tool that will enhance training and operational capabilities for GEOINT, SIGINT, and Multi-INT field support during Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. This initiative is critical as the AF DCGS serves as the lead ISR system utilized by intelligence agencies globally, necessitating robust support for system maintenance and operational readiness. Interested parties must submit their qualifications and capabilities by August 25, 2025, via email to Philip Holt at philip.holt@us.af.mil, as the government seeks a wide range of business classifications to participate in this opportunity.

    Point(s) of Contact
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    The document is a Request for Information (RFI) from the Air Force seeking potential vendors with the capabilities to support the Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS) for various intelligence operations, including GEOINT and SIGINT. It outlines the need for services such as system maintenance, administration, and management crucial for ground operations during Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The focus is on developing a simulation tool for mission training and testing that can handle ELINT, COMINT, and related data. Key objectives include the development, modernization, and sustainment of the ST Mission Simulator across multiple locations. Contractors are expected to engage in program management, agile project management, engineering services, and software development under an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. Responses to the RFI must include detailed business information and answer capability survey questions covering experience in Signals Intelligence, familiarity with Air Force and NSA processes, and readiness to support operations. The deadline for submissions is April 24, 2025, and responses are directed to designated contracting officers via email. This RFI reflects the government's strategic need to enhance capabilities within its ISR systems by leveraging qualified contractors' expertise.
    The government is seeking market research responses for a Request for Information (RFI) aimed at supporting the Air Force Distributed Common Ground System (AF DCGS). The focus is on identifying potential sources with the expertise to provide maintenance, administration, and management for GEOINT, SIGINT, and Multi-INT field support, particularly related to system operations during ISR missions. Key tasks include the development and sustainability of a mission simulation tool for training and testing purposes across multiple locations. Businesses are required to submit relevant qualifications, including their experience with software development for Signals Intelligence and familiarity with NSA directives. The submission deadline is August 25, 2025, and responses should be sent via email with specific business information and capabilities outlined. Emphasis is placed on understanding the operational and security requirements for delivering products that support AF DCGS systems effectively. The RFI seeks responses from various business classifications, ensuring a wide array of potential participants.
    The Performance-Based Work Statement (PWS) outlines the services required for the Sensor Agnostic Emulator and Trainer (SAET) and Signal Generator for the U.S. Air Force (USAF) Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS). The primary objective is to develop, modify, and sustain the SAET software to meet operational and cybersecurity requirements, facilitating realistic training and mission-related verification. The contract emphasizes non-personal services, requiring the contractor to manage tasks without government supervision. Key tasks encompass program management, software development, configuration management, and logistics support, with performance monitored via defined metrics in a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). The contractor must deliver and maintain technical documentation and training materials, ensuring compliance with cybersecurity and data management protocols. Through Agile methodologies, the contractor will do iterative software development, producing deliverables such as software source code, build instructions, and technical reports. The contract stipulates a one-year period with four option years, and the contractor is responsible for safeguarding government property and ensuring timely reporting of any deficiencies. This initiative aims to bolster the USAF’s capability for signal generation and training, enhancing its operational effectiveness while maintaining compliance with federal acquisition regulations.
    The Performance-Based Work Statement (PWS) outlines the services required for the development and support of a Sensor Agnostic Emulator and Trainer (SAET) for the U.S. Air Force's Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS). The objective is to enhance capabilities through software modifications while ensuring operational and cybersecurity compliance. The contract highlights the need for Agile project management and emphasizes the provision of training tools simulating real-world scenarios for DCGS operators. The contractor will provide non-personal services, manage employees without governmental oversight, and fulfill defined tasks under an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. Key elements include maintaining Government property, executing configuration management, providing logistics and engineering support, and ensuring thorough documentation. Performance will be measured against established thresholds, including deliverable quality and timeliness. Government compliance regarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is mandated to ensure sensitive data protection. The contractor's work will focus on detailed planning and execution of tasks, with stringent reporting and collaboration protocols established to maintain alignment with government objectives. This initiative aims to significantly enhance DCGS capabilities and operational readiness while adhering to federal standards and guidelines.
    Lifecycle
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