Request for Information (RFI) - Project Manager, Short and Intermediate Effectors for Layered Defense Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense Increment 4

Quick Summary

The U.S. Army Project Manager, Short and Intermediate Effectors for Layered Defense (SHIELD) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) for Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) Increment 4. This RFI seeks solutions to provide air defense capability for dismounted and light mounted maneuver forces, specifically to defeat unmanned aircraft systems (Groups 1-3) and close support aircraft. The Army is interested in vehicle-agnostic, SLED or pallet-based systems with modular, open system architecture. Responses are due April 6, 2026.

Scope of Interest

The Army is seeking solutions that deliver air defense capability to support dismounted maneuver, Joint Forcible Entry (JFE) operations (C-130 transportable, air droppable, sling load capable), and light mounted maneuver operations. Key characteristics include:

• Vehicle-Agnostic Design: SLED or pallet-based systems compatible with light tactical vehicles (e.g., Infantry Squad Vehicle, Robotic Combat Vehicle), minimizing Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) constraints. The USG desires a system that minimizes handling and specialized equipment needs.
• Modular Open System Approach (MOSA): For hardware and software, enabling reconfigurability and future upgrades.
• Intellectual Property (IP) & Data Rights: The Army desires IP and data rights to facilitate affordable reconfiguration, evolution, and a "Right to Repair," with minimum rights assertions.
• Performance: Interoperability with Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) Battle Command System for Maneuver (IBCS-Maneuver) Command and Control (C2), independent operation, multiple modular effectors/sensors (kinetic, electronic warfare, active/passive sensing), JFE capability, network enabled, human-machine integration, Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML), and Model-Based System Engineering (MBSE).
• Schedule: Candidate solutions should aim for delivery in the near- to mid-term (FY27-29). The Army will consider projects starting at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2.

Contract & Timeline

• Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Market Research (not a solicitation for contract award).
• Set-Aside: None specified.
• Response Due: April 6, 2026, by email.
• Questions Due: Within 14 days of publication (March 24, 2026).
• Published: March 24, 2026.
• Agency: Department of the Army, ACC-Redstone.

Submission Requirements

Respondents must submit a white paper (max 15 pages, 12-pt font text, 9-pt figures) detailing their candidate solution(s). The response should cover:

• Description of the solution, how it meets RFI objectives, and key performance capabilities.
• Top three technical and programmatic risks.
• Approach to modularity and open system architecture.
• How the solution meets IP and data rights objectives.
• Unclassified capability against threats.
• Projected Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL).
• Business information, including company details and small business status.
• Proprietary information must be marked "Releasable to USG Agencies and their supporting Contractors for Review Only."
• DUNS numbers are no longer required; Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is sufficient. CUI submissions are acceptable via DoD SAFE link.

Additional Notes

This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a Request for Proposal or a promise to issue one. The Government will use responses for market research to assess technical maturity, feasibility, industry capability, and risks. Non-Government support contractors will assist in assessing responses.