Next Generation Airlift Program (NGAL)- Platform Request for Information
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, specifically AFLCMC WLYK FUTURE TANKERS, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the Next Generation Airlift Program (NGAL). This market research seeks industry concepts and technological capabilities for a future strategic airlift aircraft intended to replace legacy platforms like the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17A Globemaster III. Responses are due by July 17, 2026, at 1700 EDT.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI aims to gather information on potential NGAL platform solutions. The Air Force is interested in aircraft concepts addressing general airlift capabilities, including dimensions, propulsion systems, payload-range capabilities, and cargo handling for standard 463L pallets, military rolling stock, and oversized/outsized cargo. Key areas of interest also include cargo bay pressurization for personnel and Aeromedical Evacuation (AE) missions, configuration flexibility, ground time efficiency, performance characteristics (e.g., takeoff/landing, austere operations, fuel efficiency), airdrop capabilities, and advanced systems like federated mission-systems architecture, digital engineering (Digital Twins/MBSE), defensive systems, cyber-attack mitigation, and logistics support.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Purpose: Market research and planning purposes only; does not constitute an RFP or commitment to contract.
- Set-Aside: None specified (open market research).
- Published: June 12, 2026
- Industry Questions Due: June 26, 2026
- Industry Q&A Posting: July 02, 2026
- RFI Whitepaper Packages Due: July 17, 2026, 1700 EDT
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties must submit a white paper, limited to 30 pages (including pictures and graphs), in a Microsoft Word compatible format. Submissions should be sent via encrypted email or DoD SAFE to the listed points of contact. Proprietary information must be minimized, clearly marked, and segregated. Responses must include administrative details such as Company Name, Address, Point of Contact, CAGE/DUNS Code, Phone Number, E-mail Address, Web Page URL, and facility security clearance. This RFI is for information gathering; no payment will be made for submissions.
Additional Notes
Submissions become Government property. Industry discussions may be held for clarification. All questions must be submitted in writing via email. Contractors must be registered in SAM.gov to be eligible for future Government contracts.