Third Generation Forward Looking Infrared (3GEN FLIR) B-Kit

Quick Summary

The Army Contracting Command-Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG) Belvoir Division is conducting market research for Third Generation Forward Looking Infrared (3GEN FLIR) B-Kits. This Sources Sought notice aims to identify potential manufacturers, solution providers, and second-source providers to inform future acquisition strategies for both Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) and Full Rate Production (FRP). Responses are due May 17, 2026.

Purpose

This Request for Information (RFI) has three primary objectives:

• Identify potential sources capable of manufacturing and delivering 3GEN FLIR B-Kits.
• Assess innovative acquisition strategies and business models to significantly reduce the Government's total lifecycle cost, addressing high unit costs and component obsolescence.
• Identify potential second-source providers capable of completing the design, development, qualification, and production of the 3GEN FLIR B-Kit.

Scope of Work

The 3GEN FLIR B-Kit consists of common assemblies, including Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) Dewar Cooler Bench (DCB), optics, and circuit card assemblies (CCAs). It collects radiation in MW and LW infrared bands across four fields of view to enhance threat detection, situational awareness, and combat effectiveness. The B-Kit is integrated into the Thermal Receiver Unit (TRU). Providers will be responsible for integrating the GFE DCB into their B-Kit design. All components must meet requirements outlined in specific technical documents (e.g., MIL-PRF-A3381791, MIL-PRF-A3381787).

Qualification & Technical Responsiveness

Respondents must demonstrate a viable path to providing a fully qualified B-Kit and TRU. This can be achieved as:

• Manufacturer: Possessing a fully qualified B-Kit and TRU design (SVR/FCA completed or verified performance).
• Solution Provider: Providing a detailed plan and verifiable evidence to acquire and deliver qualified B-Kits/TRUs from a qualified manufacturer (e.g., letters of intent, teaming agreements).
• Second Source Provider: Demonstrating technical expertise to design and qualify a 3GEN B-Kit, detailing a plan for design, development, qualification, and manufacturing for LRIP/FRP.

Security & Access

Technical documents are Distribution D restricted, authorized for DoD and U.S. DoD contractors only, and subject to export control. Foreign participation is excluded. A SECRET clearance is required, at minimum, for potential future classified information. Access to documents requires registration with the Corporate Management System Online (CMS II) portal and verification of eligibility.

Requested Information

Respondents must clearly indicate their proposed role (Manufacturer, Solution Provider, or Second Source) and provide detailed answers across four sections:

• General Company & Capability: Company info, facility/personnel details (including clearances), core competencies, and teaming arrangements.
• Production & Manufacturing Approach (for Manufacturers & Second Sources): Qualified design, manufacturing capability, and production ramp-up plans.
• Strategic Sourcing & Cost Reduction Approach (for Solution Providers): Acquisition strategy proposals (e.g., non-traditional models, alternative pricing), obsolescence management, Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) pricing for various annual quantities, and subcontractor management.
• Small Business Information: Interest in being a prime, ability to meet limitations on subcontracting, anticipated small business status, and financial sustainability.

Submission Details

White Papers, not exceeding twenty (20) pages (excluding Small Business questions), are due no later than 4:00 PM EST on May 17, 2026. Email responses must not exceed 5 MB. This is for market research only; no solicitation exists.

Contact: Taylor Venanzi (taylor.l.venanzi.civ@army.mil) or Alexis Williams (alexis.r.williams.civ@army.mil).