RFI for Robust Communications (RoCo) for Sub-Sonic Targets

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI seeks industry capability to provide a robust, high-bandwidth, and long-range communications solution for the Subsonic Aerial Targets (SSAT) fleet. The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is issuing this RFI for market research to inform potential prototype projects under Other Transaction Authority (OTA) and to identify firms capable of providing these supplies prior to a potential Request for Proposal (RFP).

• The solution must address identified capability gaps in the current SSAT communication architecture, including:

  • Limited Range/Blue Water Capability (current max range ~200 nmi)
  • Insufficient Data Rate (current max bitrate 230.4 kbps)
  • Low Signal Resiliency
  • Restricted Datalink Connectivity (incompatibility with platforms like Link-16)

• The solution must interface with the existing System for Naval Targets Control (SNTC) and integrate with BQM-177 and BQM-34 target aircraft.

• Key performance thresholds include:

  • Range: 200 nmi (threshold), Global Operations from CONUS (objective)
  • Data Rate: 1.0 Mbps (threshold), 30 Mbps (objective)

• Airborne hardware must adhere to Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) constraints (Size: 3.5"H x 6.5"W x 7"D, Weight: 7.8 lbs, Power: 28 VDC, Range: 200 nmi).

• NAVAIR is considering awarding one or more Other Transaction Agreements (OTA) for prototype projects.

• The government reserves the right to pursue production of a successful prototype.

• Interested parties should submit a Capability Statement (no more than 20 pages) addressing:

  • Proposed technical solution for the four key capability gaps.
  • Solution architecture and integration with SNTC and target aircraft.
  • Potential impacts on frequency management, cybersecurity, and range safety.
  • Maturity and Technological Readiness Level (TRL) of the solution.
  • Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost estimate.
  • Estimated schedule for development, testing, and fielding.
  • Plan for OEM collaboration (Kratos, Northrop Grumman, Micro Systems, Inc.).
  • Company experience in developing and integrating similar C2 or datalink systems.

• Response Due Date: 13 July 2026, 5:00 PM ET.

• Not specified in this RFI.

• This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation.

• All information submitted must be unclassified.

• Responses are not offers and do not obligate the government to award a contract.

• No funds are available to pay for preparation of responses.

• The government may share information with contractor support personnel.

• A briefing on this effort will be held at the NASC Membership Meeting on 25 June 2026.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "ATTACHMENT 1: ROCO TECHNICAL BACKGROUND AND CAPABILITY GAPS," provides background information on the current system's limitations and potential solutions for improving its capabilities. It is intended to inform potential bidders about the technical challenges and areas for development.

This attachment details several capability gaps in the existing system, including:

• Limited Range/Blue Water Capability: The current Line of Sight (LOS) UHF transmission has a limited range (approx. 200 nmi), hindering blue-water operations and threat presentation testing. Potential solutions include extended LOS with relays or Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) systems using satellite networks.
• Insufficient Data Rate: The current data transmission rate is at capacity, leading to lost targets and insufficient data for investigation. Solutions involve modernizing to a higher data rate (e.g., 30 Mbps) to support telemetry backhaul and video.
• Low Signal Resiliency: The LOS UHF transmission is sensitive to airframe masking and signal loss. Solutions proposed include mesh relay networks, LOS RF multipath, and multi-band transmission.
• Restricted Datalink Connectivity: The current NCDL data format is incompatible with operational platforms, limiting data exchange. Solutions include integrating legacy operational datalinks (e.g., Link-16) or IP-based connections.
• Fixed Telemetry Data Stream: The current telemetry data stream is fixed and cannot be modified to meet customer needs, requiring a standalone system. A configurable data backhaul is proposed to allow for mission-specific telemetry.

This document is crucial for bidders to understand the technical context and existing limitations of the system. It highlights areas where the government is seeking improvements or solutions, guiding bidders in developing relevant proposals and technical approaches.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment 2 - Definitions," provides a glossary of terms and acronyms used within the context of the System for Navy Targets Control (SNTC) and its associated components. It is intended to clarify technical terminology for bidders.

• GCS (Ground Control Station): Defines the components and network structure for controlling targets.
• GRFU (Ground Radio Frequency Unit): Describes the RF component of the GCS.
• HRCL (Host Range Communications Link): Explains the requirement for a communications link between geographically separated GCS and GRFU.
• MCC (Main Control Console): Details the user interface for SNTC datalink configuration and system health monitoring.
• RIC (Range Interface Computer): Identifies the RLC configuration hosting the RIP.
• RIP (Range Interface Processor): Explains its function in translating SNTC track data.
• RLC (Ruggedized Laptop Console): Describes the SNTC user interface hosted on these consoles.
• RSD (Range Situational Display): Defines its purpose for displaying target telemetry.
• SNTC (System for Navy Targets Control): Outlines the system's function for command and control of aerial targets.
• TCA (Target Control Assembly): Describes an auxiliary panel for target command activation/deactivation.
• TCC (Target Control Console): Explains the console for controlling aerial targets and telemetry.
• TQUAL (Transmission Quality): Defines the metric for message transmission success.

Understanding these definitions is crucial for bidders to accurately interpret technical specifications, requirements, and statements of work related to the SNTC system and its operational environment. It ensures a common understanding of the terminology used throughout the solicitation documents.