Katadyn Manual Reverse Osmosis Desalinator
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 Department of the Army is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice for a Katadyn Manual Reverse Osmosis Desalinator. This effort aims to identify qualified Total Small Business vendors capable of providing compact, lightweight desalinators for military survival kits. Responses are due June 23, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement is for a manual reverse osmosis device designed for survival kits, specifically the ACES II. Key specifications include:
- Dimensions: Must fit within 2.5” Tall (Flat) x 16.5” Long x 12” Wide.
- Capacity: Convert 11.5 – 15.5 cups of saltwater into potable water per day (or at least 1 liter/hour).
- Operation: Manual, requiring no external power.
- Certification: Approved for survival raft use (e.g., FAA, NSN assignment) and meet Technical Order 14S1-3-51 table 7-10.
- Durability: Withstand saltwater immersion, high pressure, rough handling, and harsh storage environments.
- Maintenance: Require minimal maintenance.
These are military-unique requirements due to regulatory certification for aviation/maritime survival kits, which commercial systems typically do not meet. Patented RO membranes and specialized seals are noted as long lead items.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)
- Response Due: June 23, 2026, 7:00 PM ET
- Published: June 16, 2026
Evaluation
Responses will be used for market research purposes to determine industry capabilities and potential sources for a future solicitation. This notice is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a request for proposal or commitment to issue a solicitation.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Karla Crapser at karla.crapser.1@us.af.mil or 503-335-4488.