Next Generation VADR
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 Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice for a Next Generation Voice and Data Recorder (VADR) for military rotary wing aviation applications. The objective is to identify potential sources capable of satisfying agency requirements for this technology. Responses will inform USSOCOM's acquisition strategy and help determine potential small business set-asides or full and open competition for a future Request for Proposal (RFP). Responses are due by February 27, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
USSOCOM seeks a Flight Data Recorder (FDR) with specific capabilities, including:
- Crash Protected Memory: 1TB (not less than 20GB)
- Processor: Multi-Processor System on Chip (MPSoC) capable of 12,000 MIPS per core (not less than 3,000 MIPS per core), with a minimum of 4 cores up to 16 cores.
- Supplemental Memory: 1TB (not less than 64GB) for third-party software.
- Recording: Video and audio recording and compression capability.
- Interfaces: MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, RS-422, Gigabit Ethernet (GBE), and fiber connection for video (e.g., ARINC 818).
- Compliance & Security: ED-112A compliance, cyber-security measures, and data encryption capability.
- Additional Features: Integrated Underwater Locator Beacon and user-defined data analysis software.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified at this stage; market research will inform future set-aside decisions.
- Response Due: February 27, 2026, 3:00 PM Eastern Standard Time
- Published: January 22, 2026
Submission Requirements
Interested sources must submit a statement of interest on company letterhead, demonstrating qualifications for developing, qualifying, producing, maintaining, and updating VADRs for aviation. Submissions must include:
- Source Profile: Name, address, affiliate information, year established, number of employees, two points of contact, UEI, CAGE Code, and Small Business designation/status.
- Capability Description: A table correlating vendor's current FDR capabilities with the 15 specific capabilities sought.
- Experience: Specific capabilities and experience, including relevant prior contracts with customer points of contact.
Responses must be complete, detailed, and not exceed 10 double-sided pages (including attachments). Late responses will not be accepted. This is strictly market research; no questions will be answered at this time, and no contract will be awarded based on this notice.
Additional Notes
USSOCOM utilizes support contractors for review; by responding, vendors agree to share submissions, including proprietary information, with these contractors, who are bound by non-disclosure agreements.