Request for Information (RFI) for Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Updates for APX-119 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Transponder Retrofit on the E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Fleet
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 (AFLCMC C3NK) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Updates related to the APX-119 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Transponder Retrofit on the E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Fleet. This RFI seeks to identify potential contractors with experience in amending STCs for Bombardier Global 6000 and Global XRS aircraft to facilitate the installation of upgraded IFF units. Responses are due by April 21, 2026, at 4:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The U.S. Government (USG) is conducting market research to identify industry capabilities for:
- Updating existing STCs (ST00187MC and ST00170MC) for Bombardier Global 6000 and Global XRS aircraft.
- Amending these STCs to allow for the removal of previously installed APX-119 IFF transponders and Digital Control Panels (DCPs), and the subsequent installation of upgraded units.
- Providing planning, integration, and testing services to ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and USAF airworthiness requirements.
- Developing and providing necessary data associated with STC modifications.
- Potentially conducting first article testing and DoD AIMS 1102 ground testing.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Response Due: April 21, 2026, 4:00 PM EST
- Published Date: April 10, 2026
- Issuing Office: FA2291 AFLCMC C3NK, Hanscom AFB, MA
Submission Requirements
Interested parties must submit a whitepaper, limited to 10 pages (excluding company brochures), by the deadline. Submissions must be at the Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) level and provided via DoD SAFE. Responses should be organized to address requested information areas, including Company Overview & Experience, Management and Staffing, and Recommendations for NAICS Code. The subject line for submissions must be: "IFF STC Amendment Response." Telephone inquiries will not be accepted.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for informational and planning purposes only and does not constitute a request for quotations or proposals. Submission of information is voluntary and does not guarantee future participation in any solicitation. The USG will not reimburse costs incurred in responding. The contracting effort's period of performance and award type (expected Firm Fixed Price) will be determined after responses are received. Primary Point of Contact: Rhett Reed (rhett.reed@us.af.mil) Secondary Point of Contact: Madeline Emery (madeline.emery@us.af.mil)