Colombia A-29B MPU5 Radio Integration
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 United States Air Force (USAF) is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice for the integration of Persistent Systems’ MPU-5 Airborne Wave Relay System (AWRS) into one Colombian Aerospace Force (COLAF) A-29B aircraft. This effort aims to identify qualified contractors for this complex avionics modification. Responses are due February 12, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement involves integrating the MPU-5 AWRS, which has not been previously integrated into the A-29B platform. The system connects aircraft radios to the Mobile Ad hoc Network (MANET) via Radio over IP (RoIP), integrates MANET intercom audio into the aircraft's audio system, and links to the A-29B’s EO/IR video for situational awareness and video downlink. The integrated solution includes the AWRS box, aircraft-grade RF cables, antennas, structural doublers, and mating connectors for Ethernet, USB, Power, and RoIP/Aircraft Audio. It may also include Wi-Fi capability and a mounted tablet. The integration will occur in Colombia and will culminate in a report detailing Airworthiness findings, risks, and recommended mitigations.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified; market research to determine potential small and/or other than small business firms.
- Response Due: February 12, 2026, at 8:00 PM EST
- Published: January 12, 2026
Key Contractor Requirements
Interested contractors should demonstrate:
- History of A-29B aircraft modification work.
- Experience obtaining technical data/services from OEMs (e.g., via Teaming Agreement).
- History of similar aircraft modification work with the USAF.
- Experience in Airworthiness documentation development and delivery to the USAF.
- Proficiency in creating and delivering substantiating data via CDRLs for USAF Airworthiness.
- Experience assessing and documenting technical risks/hazards per MIL-STD-882E.
- History of conducting/supporting key events like SRR, CDR, FCA/PCA, Test & Evaluation.
- Proficiency in MIL-HDBK-516C categories (Avionics, Structures, E3, System Safety, etc.).
- Ability to provide rough schedule and cost estimates for key development stages.
- Evidence of ability to update and deliver A-29B technical manuals.
- History of maintenance training and supply support.
Submission Details
Submit a capabilities package explicitly demonstrating capabilities. If lacking experience in an area, provide plans for overcoming it (e.g., teaming agreements, subcontracts). Include company name, address, POC, CAGE Code/UEID, phone, email, website, Rough Order of Magnitude, and any teaming agreements. Email responses to emmeline.spaulding@us.af.mil, kirby.williams.1@us.af.mil, and jason.cook.21@us.af.mil.
Additional Notes
This is solely for information and planning purposes and is not a Request for Proposal. The Government is under no obligation to award a contract. No funds are available for response preparation.