Request for Novel Load Frame
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 is conducting a Sources Sought to identify commercially available external rucksack frames/suspension systems compatible with the standard issue MOLLE 4000 Rucksack. This is for market research and planning purposes, not a solicitation. Responses are due by February 6, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Army is specifically seeking frames, not complete rucksacks, capable of supporting a 120 lb load. Key requirements include:
- Compatibility: Must be compatible with the MOLLE 4000 Rucksack and other soldier equipment.
- Load Capacity: Capable of supporting a 120 lb. rucksack worn by an individual Soldier.
- Durability: Must withstand rigorous drop tests (8-foot free-fall, 3 times on frame, 3 times on rucksack) at ambient and cold-soaked (-60°F) temperatures without visual damage.
- Airdrop Impact: Capability to endure airdrop slide impact tests (31-34 ft/sec at 45 degrees from vertical, 3 times on frame, 3 times on rucksack) without visual damage.
- Human Factors: Subject to human factors testing with typical combat loads.
- Stature Configuration: Configurable for 2%-98% of the Army population's stature.
- Airborne Operations: Safely and effectively riggable for airborne operations with a Harness Single Point Release (HSPR).
- Environmental Conditioning: Durability in extreme hot and cold environmental conditions will be evaluated.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Original)
- Notice Identifier: 340ecf3c8592413981f511a98fc0fe9d
- Response Due: February 6, 2026
- Published: January 14, 2026
- Product Service Code: 8465 – Individual Equipment
- NAICS Code: 54171 – Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences
- Place of Performance: Natick, MA 01760
- Agency: Dept of the Army, ACC-APG NATICK
Submission & Evaluation
This is NOT a solicitation or request for proposal; no contract will be awarded. Responses will inform small procurements for further testing. Evaluation will consider fit/compatibility with MOLLE 4000, airborne rigging capability, stature configuration, and environmental durability.
Interested parties should submit product literature via email to Mr. Blaise Liess (blaise.p.liess.civ@army.mil) and Mr. John Kirk (john.kirk.civ@army.mil). Submissions should include:
- Company name, CAGE code, business size (small/large, socioeconomic status), and manufacturing location.
- Product description, photos/illustrations, retail price, production capacity, and quality management system description.
- Company experience, personnel, facilities, technical literature, test data, and patents.
- GSA Federal Supply Schedule contract number (if applicable).
- Samples are optional and will not be returned or paid for.
Additional Notes
Responses are voluntary, and no reimbursement will be made for costs incurred. All submissions become Government property. Not responding does not preclude participation in future RFPs. Potential responders are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for future solicitations.