Request for Information - Arresting Cable Release Mechanism (ACRM)
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 U.S. Army Contracting Command - Rock Island (ACC-RI) is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) for the development of an Arresting Cable Release Mechanism (ACRM) capability for the Mine Clearing Line Charge (MICLIC). This RFI aims to conduct market research to identify potential sources offering innovative and mature components or integrated solutions. Responses are due by May 5, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Army is seeking an ACRM that can automatically sever or disconnect a 3/4-inch nylon rope (containing two MIL-C-13486-1 electrical wires) while under approximately 1,000 lbs of tension. The envisioned ACRM should consist of two major subsystems:
- Modular Triggering Mechanism: Must withstand the peak tension during the arresting event.
- Modular Release Mechanism: Must complete release within 3-45 seconds after the Line Charge (LDC) settles on the ground (approximately 7 seconds post-rocket launch). It must fully sever the arresting cable from the M58 LDC container, accounting for the two embedded electrical wires if cutting is proposed. Power sources can be electrical, pyrotechnic, or mechanical, with a preference for battery-operated electrical systems. The mechanism must survive the MICLIC launch environment, which includes a maximum/peak arrest force of 10,500 pounds.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: May 5, 2026, 22:59 UTC
- Published: April 6, 2026
Evaluation
The ACRM Integrated Product Team will review white paper responses to identify, analyze, and evaluate innovative, mature, and emerging technologies. This RFI is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation.
Additional Notes
Interested parties must submit a white paper, not exceeding 10 pages plus a cover page, detailing:
- Company background, size, experience, and differentiators.
- Technical approach, theory of operations, dependencies, complexity, ease of use, reusability, response time, reliability, SWaP (Size, Weight, and Power), real-world applications, material availability, lead time, country of origin, and unit production costs.
- Assumptions and risks.
- Past investment/defense contracts and Technology Readiness Levels (TRL).
Detailed interface drawings are available upon written request from JCP-registered contractors. The government will not pay for any costs incurred in response to this RFI. Responses are strictly voluntary. Submit responses via email to Danielle Miller (danielle.d.miller3.civ@army.mil).