Request for Information - Outboard Submersible Motors for Combat Rubber Raiding Crafts (CRRCs)
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. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC/WISN) is conducting a Sources Sought Synopsis/Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources for next-generation outboard submersible motors for Combat Rubber Raiding Crafts (CRRCs). The current CRRC engine fleet is obsolete and limits operational capabilities for the Personnel Recovery (PR) mission. The Air Force seeks solutions to enhance performance, reliability, and operational range in adverse conditions. Responses are due by May 20, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern time.
Purpose & Scope
This RFI is for market research to find motors that address the obsolescence of current CRRC engines, which no longer meet evolving PR mission requirements. The goal is to restore full operational capability, providing Guardian Angel (GA) personnel with a reliable and effective CRRC system for all operational environments. The new motors must overcome limitations in rough seas, improve fuel efficiency, and avoid increased weight.
Key Requirements
The Air Force is seeking motors with specific capabilities, including:
- Propulsion Power: Ability to propel CRRC at 15 kts (threshold) or 10 kts (objective) with a Beaufort Wind Force 3 (threshold) or 5 (objective) headwind.
- Submergibility: Dewater and start within 60 seconds (threshold) or 30 seconds (objective) after 10 minutes submerged at 10 feet.
- Survivability: Must operate after impact from air-deployment.
- Fuel: Operable on mixed-gasoline (2-stroke); Diesel and Jet Fuel operation is desired.
- Weight: 180 lbs or less (threshold), 150 lbs or less (objective).
- Other Attributes: Operable by one person, start/run after storage from -30°F to 120°F, meet ASTM B117 for corrosion, include emergency toolkit, portability, fuel bladder compatibility, universal attachment, and NMMA Certification.
Submission Details
Interested parties should submit responses electronically by May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM ET. Responses should demonstrate technology and qualifications, including company data, small business status, product information, specifications, capabilities, rough order of magnitude (ROM) cost estimates, current contract performance, commercial solution status, warranty terms, spare parts, training details, potential improvements, and risks. Responses should not exceed 15 pages.
Eligibility & Notes
U.S. and non-U.S. firms are permitted to respond, but must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database. Information regarding small business utilization and compliance with the Buy American Act is requested. This is an RFI for market research only and does not constitute a solicitation. The Government will not reimburse for response preparation expenses and may use the information for acquisition strategy development.