PUMA DARTs
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 the 6th Contracting Squadron at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, is conducting a Sources Sought for market research purposes. This notice aims to identify potential sources (Small Businesses and Other-than-Small Businesses) capable of providing PUMA DARTs (Deployable Aircrew Radio Terminals), including supply, installation, and training. This is not a solicitation, and responses will inform future acquisition decisions. Responses are due by 10:00 a.m. EST on March 25, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement involves the supply, installation, and training for PUMA DARTs. Vendors must be able to unpackage, assemble, and conduct a full functional demonstration of the machine on-site to verify correct system operation. The PUMA DART is a multi-channel, single-man-portable communications suite designed for airborne applications, featuring SATCOM, Integrated Communications Systems (ICS), and Line of Sight (LOS) capability. Key components include a Harris Falcon III® AN/PRC-158 Multi-Channel Radio, Tricom Research TCR-MBA-50-WB Multi-Band RF Amplifier, SATCOM Diplexers/LNAs, and a Two-Way Combiner/Divider. The system provides 50 watts of RF power, weighs 45 lb, and operates on 28 VDC.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: None specified (seeking both Small and Other-than-Small Businesses)
- Response Due: March 25, 2026, 10:00 a.m. EST
- Published: March 18, 2026
- Place of Performance: Tampa, FL 33621
Submission Details
Interested and qualified contractors are encouraged to submit a narrative (maximum 4 pages) demonstrating experience in similar projects. Responses must be emailed to Thomas Grove (thomas.grove.1@us.af.mil). Required information includes:
- Company Name
- Distributor verification/certification of Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) products/services
- POC email and phone number
- Business size, socio-economic status, and CAGE Code
- SAM Information
- Narrative explaining interest, capability, and qualifications
- Any other pertinent information
Additional Notes
This is for market research only and is not a Request for Proposal, Quotation, or Invitation for Bid. No solicitation is currently available. The Government will not be held accountable for any costs incurred in response to this notice. All responses will be shared only with the Government project management team and held in strict confidence. A future solicitation, if issued, will be announced separately.