Protocol Free Encryption Device (PFED) for Sensitive But Unclassified (SBU) Networks Request for Information (RFI)
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 Army, specifically the Capability Program Executive Command (CPE) and Control Information Network (C2IN), Product Manager Communications Security (PdM COMSEC), is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to identify commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) Protocol Free Encryption Devices (PFEDs). These devices are sought for securing high-speed, point-to-point data links on the United States Army’s Sensitive But Unclassified Encrypted (SBU-E) Networks, providing transparent "bump-in-the-wire" encryption at OSI Layer 1/2. This RFI is for market research to gauge industry interest and potential for Bailment and Government evaluation. Responses are due by June 10, 2026.
Scope of Interest
The Army is looking for solutions that offer protocol-agnostic inline network encryption. The primary goal is to enhance the security of SBU-E Networks by providing robust, transparent encryption without interfering with network protocols. Information gathered will help define use cases and assess the impact of these technologies on current field operations.
Requested Information
Vendors are requested to submit a white paper addressing:
- Company and Device(s) Overview: Experience in network security, description of primary PFED devices (model names, use cases, differentiators), example deployment diagrams, and a non-binding pricing model overview (licensing structure).
- Technical Information: Supported throughput rates (with full duplex and industry standards), Size, Weight, and Power (SWAP), power/cooling/rack unit requirements, management interface details, logging/auditing capabilities, secure software/firmware update processes, typical latency, physical network interfaces, CNSA Suite compliance, security certifications (e.g., FIPS, Common Criteria EAL4+), cryptographic algorithms, PQC protocols, and key management architecture (generation, distribution, storage, rotation, ephemeral keys, key-life, external KMS support).
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Purpose: Market research and planning only; this is not a Request for Proposal (RFP) and does not constitute a commitment to contract.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Response Due: June 10, 2026
- Published: May 26, 2026
Submission Instructions
Interested vendors must submit a white paper, not exceeding fifteen (15) pages (excluding administrative sections), in Microsoft Word format (Office 365 compatible). The submission should include administrative information (POC, business size/classification under NAICS 334210) and address the requested technical and company overview details. Responses must be emailed to Contracting Officer Sharon A. Peterson (sharon.a.peterson15.civ@army.mil) and Contract Specialist Melody S. Thomas (melody.s.thomas.civ@army.mil). Clearly mark any proprietary information. Questions regarding this RFI must be submitted in writing via email to the same contacts; verbal questions will not be accepted.