Request for Information Regarding Micro Transponder for Army Aviation Platforms
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 Assured Airspace Access Systems (A3S), is conducting market research through this Request for Information (RFI) to identify sources capable of designing, producing, and delivering a micro transponder for Army Aviation platforms. This RFI aims to enhance situational awareness and interoperability by addressing Size, Weight, and Power-consumption (SWaP) constraints. Responses are due by March 19, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Army requires a miniaturized Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) transponder. Key performance specifications include:
- Operational Modes: Modes 1, 2, 3/A, C, 5L1&2, and S.
- Connectivity: Minimum two (2) Ethernet (10BaseT/100BaseT) ports.
- Cryptographic Compatibility: KIV-77 and KIV-79 crypto appliqués.
- Power: 28VAC input (MIL-STD-704A-F compliant), 500W max output.
- Compliance: DoD AIMS (diversity antennae), MIL-STD-810H (-40°C to 71°C), MIL-STD-461G (E3 resilient), DoDI 8500 (cyber resilient), MIL-STD-882E (System Safety).
- ADS-B: 1090MHz Extended Squitter ADS-B In and Out.
- Physical: Approx. 3.4" L x 2.5" W x 1.0" H, not exceeding 200 grams.
- MRL: Minimum 7.
Information Requested
Respondents should provide a concise response (not exceeding 10 pages) addressing:
- Company Profile: Overview, core competencies, relevant experience with military aviation electronics, and past performance.
- Technical Approach: Description of proposed solution meeting Section 2.1 requirements, including details on modes, crypto-compatibility, and physical dimensions.
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Assessment of proposed system/components.
- Integration and Interoperability: Information on ease of integration with existing Army aviation platforms.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: March 19, 2026, 4:00 PM EST
- Published: March 12, 2026
- Product Service Code: 5895 (Miscellaneous Communication Equipment)
- Place of Performance: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, United States
Additional Notes
This RFI is for informational and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract. The Government will not reimburse for response preparation. Proprietary information should be clearly marked and will be protected.