Azimuth Gearbox Assembly Requirement Documents
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force is conducting market research via a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) to refine requirements for the qualification and production of an Azimuth Gearbox Assembly (AGA) suitable for controlling 27-meter dish radar. Industry feedback is sought on draft solicitation documents, including the Statement of Work (SOW), Contract Data Requirements Lists (CDRLs), Instructions to Offerors (Section L), and Evaluation Factors (Section M). Feedback is due by January 23, 2026, 4:00 EST.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI aims to gather industry insights to ensure the clarity, accuracy, and feasibility of the draft requirements for a future solicitation. The Government is particularly interested in feedback on technical feasibility, clarity and completeness of requirements, potential cost and schedule challenges, responsiveness to Sections L & M, and potential innovations. The effort involves manufacturing and delivering two Azimuth Gearboxes according to Raytheon drawing No. D2220940 REV C, including Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE) to update existing design documentation and create missing engineering drawings.
Key Technical Details & Clarifications
Recent Q&A documents clarify that reverse engineering of existing parts is required, and an actual gearbox will be provided for disassembly, reassembly, and testing. The motor has a MAX RPM of 3600 and is 55 HP, with an expected 25% operational duty cycle. The total weight above the azimuth mount should not exceed 550,000 pounds. Gearboxes must support operational loads in both directions, with a desired backlash of .010" to .040" and an operating center distance of approximately 802.95mm. They must be designed for a 20-year operational life with continuous 24-hour operation capability. While no health monitoring sensors are currently included, options can be proposed.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due (Feedback): January 23, 2026, 4:00 EST
- Published: January 8, 2026
- Product/Service Code: 5840 - Radar Equipment, Except Airborne
Submission Instructions
Interested vendors should review the provided draft documents (SOW, CDRLs, Section L, Section M) and submit comments, questions, and suggestions. Feedback should be formatted by Document, Section/Paragraph Number, and Comment. Submissions can be made directly in attached documents using track changes or in a separate document. Submit feedback to:
- Brandon Jones, Lead Contracting Officer (brandon.jones.96@us.af.mil)
- Jessica Roberts, Contracting Officer (jessica.roberts.21@us.af.mil)
- Jason Hersey, Program Manager (jason.hersey.1.ctr@us.af.mil)
Important Notes
This is solely for market research; the Government does not intend to award a contract based on this RFI and will not accept unsolicited proposals. Participation does not guarantee future involvement. Companies must have a current SAM record. Starting November 10, 2025, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements may be included in future DoD contracts.