RFI AMSS Band Aid

Quick Summary

The Department of the Army, specifically PdM Force Sustainment Systems (FSS), is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) for the Arctic Mobility Sustainment System (AMSS). This RFI seeks mature (TRL 7+) Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) or emerging technologies to enhance Soldier mobility and survivability in extreme Arctic environments. Responses will inform a potential future production effort for over 3,000 systems. Responses are due April 16, 2026, by 5 PM EST.

Purpose

This RFI is for market research to assess industry capabilities and identify potential solutions for the AMSS. It is not a request for proposals or a commitment to contract. Information gathered will help shape the Government's acquisition strategy and may lead to invitations for an Industry Day in June 2026 to demonstrate capabilities.

Scope of Interest

The Army is interested in solutions for dismounted Soldiers operating in Arctic conditions for 72-hour missions. Key capabilities sought include:

• Arctic Transport System with Cover: Towable by Soldiers/snowmobiles, UH-60 compatible, multiple lift points, includes harness and trace lines.
• Arctic Heater w/ Safety Mod Kit: Easily assembled/maintained, vents exhaust, lightweight, portable, compatible with various fuels (diesel, kerosene, wood, etc.), heats shelter from -40F to +40F in one hour, max 15-min repair time.
• Locking Carabiners: For mountainous terrain tasks (ascent/descent, casualty evacuation), with specific strength requirements (24 kN closed major axis).
• Oval-type Carabiner (non-locking): For towing sleds up to 800 lbs, with specific strength requirements (24 kN closed major axis).
• Bow Saw: Locking, integrated, stowable.
• Collapsible Avalanche Shovel: Shovel/hoe system, "D-handle" compatible with mittens.
• Lopper: At least 18", ideally 20-24".
• Multipurpose Tool: For cleaning heaters, sled/shelter repairs (pliers, picks, screwdrivers).
• Emergency Blanket: Supports 98th percentile Soldier, provides ≥12 hours thermal insulation (-40F to -65F), ≥24 hours active heating, access points for medical treatment, multiple handles, litter compatible, small/lightweight.
• Emergency Stove: Collapsible, lightweight, compatible with wood and solid fuels.

All systems must be Berry Amendment and Buy American Act compliant, fully operational at -40F (ideally -65F), ergonomically suitable for cold-weather gear, lightweight, meet MIL-STD-810H, have 5 years useful life, 10 years storage life, subdued color, and be capable of continuous 72-hour operation.

Submission Requirements

Respondents must submit a white paper (not to exceed 10 pages) in .PDF or .DOCX format (size 12 font, 1-inch margins), along with the attached Submission Form. The white paper should include:

• Cover page (product name, manufacturer, contact, photo).
• Executive summary.
• Product technical description (operational concept, weight, dimensions).
• Narrative and graphical depiction of the system.
• Product specifications with quantitative metrics.
• Identified supply chain risks.
• Relevant product history and test results.
• Required tools and equipment.
• Transportation requirements and limitations.
• Consumables.
• Catalog price or rough unit cost estimate.
• Detailed manufacturing capability (production capacity, throughput, scalability, timeline, locations).

Do not attach marketing brochures or extraneous materials.

Timeline & Next Steps

• Response Due: April 16, 2026, 5 PM EST.
• Industry Day: June 2026 (by invitation for selected technologies).
• Notification of Invitation/Non-Invitation: By end of May 2026.

Contact Information

• Raul Lopez, Project Lead: raul.a.lopez.civ@army.mil
• Clinton McAdams, Project Engineer: clinton.b.mcadams.civ@army.mil

Email subject line must be: "Arctic Mobility Sustainment System (AMSS)".