SATCOM Modernization

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document contains responses to vendor questions regarding the SATCOM Modernization opportunity, clarifying requirements related to terminals, modems, antennas, and operational capabilities.

• Terminal Configuration: Each dual-hub terminal will consist of two independent antennas with independent LNBs, totaling four antennas for two terminals. Each terminal requires two hubs.
• Modem Compatibility: The system must be compatible with the existing iDirect hub infrastructure. Contractors will utilize the Government's existing iDirect hub infrastructure and do not need to provide additional iDirect support beyond compatibility.
• Amplifier Configuration: Amplifiers must be capable of outputting between 1 watt and 10 watts to meet SATSIM constraints, achievable via design, attenuation, or muting.
• Dual-Hub Operation: Refers to two independent channels operating within the same band simultaneously on one terminal, utilizing two independent antennas.
• Certification: No WGS certification is required for the proposed terminals.
• Equipment Provision: Hubs and modems will be contractor-provided, not Government Furnished Equipment.
• Proposal Deadline: There is no interest in extending the proposal submission date.

These clarifications provide specific details on technical requirements, equipment compatibility, and operational parameters, which bidders should consider when preparing their proposals. Key details include the number of antennas and laptops required, the specific capabilities of the modems and amplifiers, and the reliance on existing iDirect hub infrastructure.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the SATCOM Modernization opportunity, clarifying requirements related to terminals, modems, antennas, and operational capabilities.

• Terminal Configuration: Each dual-hub terminal will consist of two independent antennas with independent LNBs, totaling two antennas per terminal and four antennas for the entire requirement.
• Modem Requirements: The system must be compatible with the existing iDirect hub infrastructure. While the current setup uses FDMA (DMD-2050) and TDMA (iDirect) modems, the primary requirement is iDirect compatibility. Hub infrastructure will be government-provided.
• Amplifier Configuration: Amplifiers must be capable of outputting between 1 and 10 watts to meet SATSIM constraints, achievable through design, attenuation, or muting. No WGS certification is required for the terminals.
• Operational Bands: Terminals will support C, X, Ku, and Ka bands. Current equipment supports full commercial and Mil bands. Dual-hub operation refers to two independent channels within the same band operating simultaneously.
• Weight Limit: The typical 112 lbs per case weight limit for a two-person lift is applicable.
• Dual-Chain Modem Assemblies: These are specialized devices for high-speed, secure, and reliable communications over multiple channels.

This Q&A document clarifies technical specifications and requirements, ensuring bidders have a precise understanding of the equipment and its intended use within the SATSIM environment. No changes to proposal deadlines are indicated.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

This SOO outlines the performance objectives for replacing two end-of-life Ground Multi-Band Terminal (GMT) and Quad-band Large Aperture Antenna (QLAA) training assets. The acquisition aims to sustain apprentice-level training by providing modern, efficient, and sustainable systems, functioning as a like-for-like replacement.

• Sustain Training Operations: Deliver two SATCOM terminals supporting dual-hub communications with two small aperture antennas each, operating across C, X, Ku, and Ka-band frequencies. Features a modular feed boom for easy band swapping.

• Reduce Manpower & Increase Efficiency: Systems must be deployable and operable by a two-person crew, support remote command and control from a classroom via ruggedized laptops, automate satellite acquisition, and operate on a low-power configuration.

• Ensure Durability & Sustainment: Systems must be fully containerized in ruggedized transit cases, integrate with existing infrastructure (concrete pads, 120/240 VAC power), and facilitate organic maintenance through modular component replacement.

• Integrate with Existing Curriculum: Provide dual-chain modem assemblies compatible with current and legacy configurations (BPSK, QPSK) and interface standards (MIL-STD-188-165A, EIA-530), along with necessary indoor equipment (laptops, UPS) and interfacility links.

• Key Deliverables: Two complete Dual-Hub SATCOM Terminal Systems, on-site turn-key integration, comprehensive technical documentation (user/technical manuals, schematics, maintenance guides), and a one-time "Train-the-Trainer" program for up to 12 personnel.

• Period of Performance: Delivery, set-up, and training activities to be completed between 180 and 225 days after contract award.

N/A (This is an SOO, not a solicitation)

N/A

• Place of Performance (Delivery): 809 Hercules St (Bldg 6902, Jones Hall), KAFB, MS 39534.
• The document references Keesler AFB, MS as the preparation location.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document is a solicitation (FA301026Q0007) for the "SATCOM MODERNIZATION" requirement. The government is procuring SATCOM Terminals.

• The core requirement is for "SATCOM Terminal in accordance with Attachment 1 - Statement of Objectives."

• The Product Service Code (PSC) is 7G22, and the Product Type Code is 6940.

• Pricing Arrangement: Firm Fixed Price.

• Delivery Date: On or Before 30 September 2026.

• FOB: Destination.

• Offer Due Date: 06 April 2026, 02:00 PM.

• Evaluation Process: Lowest price technically acceptable.

• Quotes must be submitted electronically via email to 2d Lt Zachary Willard (zachary.willard.1@us.af.mil) and Contracting Officer, Kimberley L. Alvarez (kimberley.alvarez.1@us.af.mil).

• The SF1449 form must be completed and signed.

• Questions must be submitted in writing by 16 March 2026, 10:00 AM CDT.

• This acquisition is set aside 100% for Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB).

• NAICS Code: 334220, Size Standard: 1250.

• Funds are not presently available for this contract. The Government reserves the right to cancel this solicitation.

• The solicitation includes numerous FAR and DFARS clauses, including those related to electronic submission of payment requests (WAWF), subcontracting limitations, and representations and certifications.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This notice announces the intent to issue a 100% Small Business Set-Aside solicitation for SATCOM Terminals, Antenna, and associated assets. The acquisition is being conducted by the 81st Contracting Squadron.

• Procurement of SATCOM Terminals, Antenna, and associated assets.

• The requirement specifications will be posted with the solicitation.

• Anticipated award of a firm-fixed price requirements contract.

• Simplified Acquisition Procedures under FAR 13.5 will be used.

• The solicitation will be posted on www.sam.gov on or about February 26, 2026.

• Copies of the solicitation will not be mailed; they must be downloaded from https://www.sam.gov.

• Prospective offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) prior to award.

• Offerors are responsible for monitoring www.sam.gov for postings, changes, amendments, and closing dates.

• Proposal questions will only be accepted after the solicitation is posted and must be submitted in writing (via email).

• Answers to questions will be posted for all interested parties.

• Questions should be directed to Zachary Willard at (228) 377-1804 or zachary.willard.1@us.af.mil.

• This is a 100% Small Business Set-Aside solicitation.

• The applicable NAICS code is 334220 (Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing).

• The small business size standard is 1,250 employees.

• No paper copies of the solicitation will be available, and no verbal responses will be accepted.

• Registration in SAM is required for award with any DoD agency.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

To replace two end-of-life Ground Multi-Band Terminal (GMT) and Quad-band Large Aperture Antenna (QLAA) training assets with modern, efficient, and sustainable systems to sustain apprentice-level training missions.

This SOO requires the delivery of two complete, turn-key, and fully operational deployable dual-hub SATCOM terminal systems. This includes all necessary hardware, software, integration, documentation, and training.

• Two (2) complete Dual-Hub SATCOM Terminal Systems: Must support C, X, Ku, and Ka-band frequencies, operate across two independent communication links simultaneously, and feature a modular feed boom design for tool-less band swapping.

• Deployable by a two-person crew: Includes setup, satellite acquisition, and teardown.

• Remote Command and Control: Via two contractor-provided ruggedized laptops with intuitive GUIs per terminal.

• Automated Satellite Acquisition: With motorized drives.

• Low-power amplifier configuration for SATSIM operations.

• Containerized: All components must be in ruggedized, transportable transit cases.

• Seamless Integration: With existing infrastructure (concrete pads, 120/240 VAC power) and training curriculum (supporting BPSK, QPSK, MIL-STD-188-165A, EIA-530, and iDirect scenarios).

• On-Site Integration: Turn-key setup and integration services.

• Comprehensive Technical Documentation: User/technical manuals, schematics, and maintenance guides for organic, operator-level, and intermediate-level maintenance.

• One-Time "Train-the-Trainer" Program: For up to 12 government personnel.

• Place of Performance (Delivery): 809 Hercules St (Bldg 6902, Jones Hall), KAFB, MS 39534.

• Period of Performance: Delivery, set-up, training, and integration activities to be completed between 180 and 225 days after contract award.

Existing training assets are beyond their service life, leading to frequent downtime, high maintenance costs, and reduced operational efficiency. This acquisition aims to improve cost-effectiveness and ensure uninterrupted training.