RFI: Standoff Chemical Detector of Vehicles
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 DEVCOM Chemical Biological Center (CBC) is conducting market research through this Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources for optical standoff imaging technologies. These technologies are intended for integration onto unmanned ground platforms to detect, map, and characterize chemical contamination on materiel surfaces, specifically vehicles. The goal is to support the Warfighter by enabling faster decontamination and post-incident recovery. Responses are due by April 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern.
Purpose and Scope
This RFI, issued under FAR 15.201(c)(7), is for market research only and is not a solicitation. The Government will use the information to refine requirements, assess technology readiness, and inform future acquisition planning. DEVCOM CBC seeks technologies that can quickly scan vehicle surfaces to locate and identify chemical contamination.
Technical Requirements
Proposed optical sensors should, at a minimum, possess:
- Ability to scan surfaces from a 2-5 m standoff distance.
- Integration onto an unmanned ground platform (robotic arm integration acceptable if under 45 lbs).
- Scan vehicle surfaces at a rate of 5 m2 per minute (objective 10 m2/min for lower TRL).
- Operable under a wide range of environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dust, low-light).
- On-board processing for real-time detection and ability to export imaging data.
- Detect gross to trace chemical contamination in various presentations (droplets, films, particles) and on surfaces like CARC, glass, and rubber.
- Detect chemicals in the presence of aqueous-based decontamination solutions.
- Detect a variety of chemical agents, pharmaceutical-based agents, and degradation products.
Partial solutions at TRL 7 or higher that detect gross contamination are allowed if commercially available and only require platform integration.
Submission Requirements
Respondents must submit information in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or PDF format via email to Benjamin Gilson (benjamin.gilson.civ@army.mil) and Elizabeth Nordell (elizabeth.m.nordell.civ@army.mil). Submissions should be in Arial 12-point font, no more than five pages (excluding Business Information), with an optional 10-slide PowerPoint. Proprietary information must be clearly marked.
Requested Information
- Business Information: Company Name, Address, POC, Business Size (NAICS 541512), Small Business Representation.
- Technical Capability: Address ability to meet Section 2.0 requirements, identify gaps, and provide unit/ROM costs.
- Relevant Past Performance: Up to three examples of similar work.
- Accounting System: State DCAA-approved status or willingness to obtain.
- Purchasing System: State DFARS 252.244-7001(c) compliance.
- Facility Clearance: Current clearance level.
- Additional Information: Any other relevant details.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 15, 2026, 5:00 PM Eastern
- Published: March 26, 2026
Additional Notes
No telephone calls, office calls, or one-on-one meetings will be accepted. Questions will be addressed collectively during an Industry Day. Participation in this RFI is not required for future solicitations.