Request for Information (RFI) – Friendly Force Tracker (FFT)
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 Air Force, specifically the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential sources for a small form factor Low Probability of Identification (LPI) / Low Probability of Detection (LPD) Friendly Force Tracker (FFT). This RFI aims to gather information on solutions capable of operating across new and emerging waveforms, particularly in denied and degraded frequency environments for dismounted operators. Responses are due by April 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time.
Scope of Requirements
The desired Friendly Force Tracker (FFT) is for USAF dismounted operators conducting operations at the forward edge, including tactical control of airborne strike assets and special tactics. The tracker must counter enemy attempts to locate friendly forces through electromagnetic emissions and GPS jamming. Key requirements include:
- Physical: Small form factor (Threshold: <= 5.5"x3.5"x2"; Objective: <= 4.5"x2.5"x1"), lightweight (Threshold: <= 9 oz; Objective: <= 7 oz), and ruggedized for all operating environments.
- Power: Rechargeable internal power source (removable objective), USB-C charging (objective), and extended battery life (7 days with 1-6 messages/location updates per hour).
- Functionality: Capable of 150-250 character messages, free-text and pre-defined messaging, AES-256 encryption, M-Code compliance, standalone operation, and integration with JPECDs. Data accessibility over SIPRNet and Classified Networks.
- Communications: Transmit power <= 1 watt, transmit over DISA EMSS sim-less system (objective: large spectrum spread), and low transmission latency (Threshold: <= 10 seconds; Objective: <= 5 seconds) with user-selectable transmit power.
Submission Details
This is an RFI for informational and market research purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to procure. Interested parties should submit responses electronically via email to the Contracting Officer. Responses are limited to a maximum of 15 pages (including cover page) and should include:
- Company information (name, address, POC, CAGE code, URL).
- Small business status and domestic/foreign ownership.
- Interest in prime or subcontracting roles.
- Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost estimate, including development.
- Product capabilities, specifications, and development/integration approach.
- Warranty, spare parts, NET, training details, and potential product improvements.
- Technical and schedule risk assessment.
- Rationale for FAR 52.219-14 and FAR 52.219-33 compliance, if applicable. Proprietary information must be clearly marked.
Eligibility & Notes
No specific set-aside is designated for this RFI; broad industry participation from U.S. and non-U.S. firms is encouraged. Respondents must be registered in SAM to be awarded a future DOD contract. The Government will not reimburse expenses for response preparation and may use the information to develop its acquisition strategy. Responses become Government property. The Government may contact respondents for further clarification.
Primary Contact: Jamie Sclafani (jamie.sclafani@us.af.mil) Secondary Contact: Bryce Haney (bryce.haney.3@us.af.mil)