Request for Information - Low-Cost MESH radio in contested environments
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 US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), specifically the Program Executive Office (PEO) – Tactical Information Systems (TIS), Remote Advise and Assist – Virtual Accompany Kit (RAA-VAK) Program Management Office (PMO), has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for a low-cost mesh radio capable of operating effectively in contested environments. This RFI is for market research purposes only to inform future acquisition strategies. Responses are due by July 1, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI aims to identify potential industry sources and gather information on commercially available or near-commercial low-cost mesh radio solutions. The data collected will assist the Government in developing its acquisition strategy, Statement of Work, Statement of Objectives, and/or performance specifications for future procurements. The focus is on radios suitable for use in challenging operational settings.
Key Requirements for Responses
Interested parties should submit comprehensive responses that include:
- A detailed product description outlining performance parameters.
- A statement regarding the current availability of the product.
- A summary of any prior testing conducted, along with relevant test reports addressing resolution and accuracy.
- A Rough Order-of-Magnitude (ROM) for production units.
- Complete firm contact information: name, address, point of contact, phone number, and email address.
System Requirements for the Radio
The desired mesh radio should meet the following specifications:
- Physical Dimensions: Less than 35 cubic inches.
- Weight: Less than 9 ounces.
- Power Source: Rechargeable internal power source, rechargeable with a non-proprietary cable.
- Scalability: Capable of operating 12 nodes within a single mesh network.
- Battery Life: Minimum of 8 hours (based on transmitting one text message or location update per hour).
- Messaging: Support for free-text messaging (user-created) and user-modifiable pre-defined messages.
- Ruggedization: Suitable for all operating environments.
- Data Encryption: AES-256 encryption.
- Transmission Latency: No greater than 10 seconds.
Submission & Evaluation
This RFI is solely for market research; it does not constitute a Request for Proposals (RFP) or a commitment to issue a solicitation. Submission of information is voluntary, and the Government will not reimburse costs incurred in responding. Respondents are responsible for clearly marking any proprietary or competition-sensitive information.
Timeline & Contacts
- Response Due Date: July 1, 2026, by 7:00 PM ET.
- Published Date: June 1, 2026.
- Primary Contact: Stephanie Mathewson (Stephanie.a.mathewson.civ@socom.mil)
- Secondary Contact: Steven Gilby (Steven.Gilby.ctr@socom.mil)
Additional Notes
This is a Special Notice from the Department of Defense, USSOCOM. There is no set-aside designation as this is a market research RFI.