Mobile Technology Passive Optical Network Request for Information (RFI)

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to industry questions regarding a potential requirement for a Mobile Tactical Private Optical Network (MTPON) communications service, likely related to a Request for Information (RFI).

• NAICS Code: Anticipated NAICS code is 517112 - Wireless Telecommunications Carriers.
• Budget: CBP has funding but no finalized budget or ROM; seeking industry cost estimates.
• Place of Performance: Proof of Concept in Yuma Area, Arizona; specific locations in solicitation.
• NOC/SOC: CBP intends to leverage its internal NOC and SOC; prime contractor is not expected to operate a dedicated one.
• Operational Problem: Seeking a combined solution for LGDS fiber backhaul and WiFi-based end-user connectivity in remote areas.
• Technical Parameters: Specific technical parameters (e.g., 5-mile coverage, WiFi access, mobile platform) are exploratory and may be refined. Vendors should propose solutions that meet the operational need, with alternatives encouraged.
• Coverage Area: Requirement is for continuous WiFi coverage along a linear corridor up to five miles long and 100-200 meters wide.
• Access Technology: For this Proof of Concept, WiFi is the required and only acceptable end-user access technology.
• Solution Scope: CBP expects a comprehensive WiFi solution, including access points, controllers, roaming, and client authentication. CBP will provide fiber backhaul.
• Demarcation Point: Demarcation will be at fiber handholds; 22 of 24 strands are available for integration.
• Data Types: Data transmitted may include CUI, LES, FOUO, SSI, and PII.
• Relocation: Vendor is responsible for logistics, transportation, and site preparation for mobile platform relocation.

This Q&A clarifies key aspects of the potential requirement, guiding vendors on technical expectations, operational goals, and security requirements. Specific details will be provided in the solicitation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "ATTACHMENT A – VENDOR COMPANY DATA," is a form designed to collect essential information from potential vendors regarding their company. It is part of the market research for the "MOBILE TECHNOLOGY PASSIVE OPTICAL NETWORK" opportunity.

• Company Information: Name, Address, Website.
• Contact Information: Primary and Secondary Points of Contact (Name, Address, E-mail, Phone).
• Unique Identifiers: Unique Identity ID (from SAM.gov), Cage Code.
• SAM.gov Registration: Confirmation of registration in SAM (required for award).
• Socio-Economic Status: Checkboxes for various categories including Small Business, Small Disadvantaged Business, 8(a) Business, HUB Zone, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, Veteran-Owned Small Business, Woman-Owned Small Business, and Large Business.
• Manufacturer Status: Original Manufacturer or Reseller.
• Contract Information: Fields for Contract and Contract Number.

Vendors must complete and submit this form to provide their company's data as requested. This information is crucial for the government to assess vendor capabilities, eligibility, and socio-economic status in relation to the opportunity. Accurate completion is necessary for participation and potential award.

Request for Information (RFI)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is conducting market research via this RFI to identify vendors capable of providing a Mobile Technology Passive Optical Network (MTPON) Communications Service. The goal is to enhance bandwidth and integrate communications with United States Border Patrol (USBP) technologies, particularly for securing U.S. borders. This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for contract award. No payment will be made for responses, and submission does not guarantee future participation.

CBP seeks a managed service solution for rapid deployment of secure, high-bandwidth communications in remote and congested border areas. Key capabilities include:

• Mobile Platform: Self-sufficient for 3 days, with alternative power sources.
• Antenna Mast: Deployable between 20-60 ft.
• Coverage: Continuous WiFi coverage up to five (5) miles.
• Integration: Must interface with CBP’s Linear Ground Detection System (LGDS) fiber optic cable.
• Environmental Durability: Operable in extreme border conditions.
• End Devices: Vendor provides, deploys, and maintains all end devices (e.g., ONTs, WiFi access points).
• Maintenance: Vendor responsible for system maintenance (hardware and software).
• Network and Data Security: FIPS 140-2 validated encryption, Multi-factor authentication (MFA), Role-based access control (RBAC), network segmentation, continuous logging, WPA3-Enterprise WiFi security, tamper detection, and compliance with federal cybersecurity standards (NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-171, FISMA).
• Service Model: Provided as a managed service, not equipment procurement.

Vendors are requested to submit a white paper addressing:

• Technical Approach (solution details)
• Service Model (managed offering)
• Experience (similar solutions, government/border security)
• Integration Capability (with LGDS fiber)
• Coverage Capability (5-mile range)
• Timeline (confirmation of September 2026 operational capability)
• Questions and Feedback
• Security (how requirements are met)

Deadline: April 01, 2026, 5:00 PM EST. Submission Email: USBP_PMOD_SUBT_LGDS@cbp.dhs.gov Questions Deadline: March 23, 2026, 5:00 PM EST.

CBP is particularly interested in responses from 8(a) Alaskan Native Corporations and other small businesses.

Responses shall not exceed 10 pages plus Attachment A. Marketing documentation will be discarded. Vendor confidentiality will be maintained.