TACAN Shore Based Antenna
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 Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is conducting a Sources Sought for a TACAN Shore Based Antenna to replace its obsolete OE-258/URN Antenna groups. This market research aims to identify qualified sources, particularly small businesses, capable of providing a Non-Developmental Item (NDI) antenna group that directly interfaces with the AN/URN-32 transponder and includes an Antenna Controller. NAVAIR anticipates procuring 2 test units, followed by four option years of production, with an estimated maximum of 5 units per year, for a total estimated period of performance of five years. Responses are due by April 30, 2026, 2:00 PM EDT.
Purpose & Scope
This notice is for acquisition planning purposes to gather information on industry capabilities. The requirement is for a TACAN Shore Based Antenna Group that meets extensive performance, design, environmental (MIL-STD-810H), and Electromagnetic Environmental Effects (E3) standards (MIL-STD-464D, MIL-STD-461G). The system must operate in the 960 MHz to 1215 MHz frequency band, provide azimuth and distance information, and utilize integral monitoring. Key aspects include electrical interface compatibility with the AN/URN-32 using existing cabling, specific antenna pattern, modulation, and signal integrity requirements.
Key Requirements & Deliverables
The antenna group must demonstrate high achieved availability (≥ 0.99), maintainability, modular construction, and field-updatable software/firmware. Special requirements include:
- Cybersecurity: Minimum CMMC Level 2, Program Security Implementation Plan (PSIP), and Cybersecurity Vulnerability Report.
- Logistics: Comprehensive support documentation (Bill of Materials, Provisioning Technical Documentation, Engineering Data for Provisioning, Technical Data Package).
- Counterfeit Prevention: Systems to detect and avoid counterfeit electronic parts (SAE AS5553D) and other materials (SAE AS6174A).
- Training: Development Program for operational and maintenance personnel.
- Data Rights: Government requires unlimited rights for first-produced material.
- Warranty: Minimum one-year post-installation.
- Testing: Rigorous First Article Testing (FAT) and Production Acceptance Testing (PAT) are mandated, including verification of fault detection, isolation, and false alarm rates.
Submission Details
- Opportunity Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Response Due: April 30, 2026, 2:00 PM EDT
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research for all sources, including small businesses)
- Submission Method: Electronically via email to Quinn Wenger (quinn.a.wenger.civ@us.navy.mil). The email subject line must be "Response to Sources Sought: TACAN Shore Based Antenna."
- Format: Responses shall not exceed ten (10) pages (excluding cover/TOC), 8.5 x 11 inches, 12-point Times New Roman font.
- Content: A capabilities statement package addressing source information (DUNS, CAGE, socio-economic status), detailed capabilities to perform tasks outlined in the specification and SOW, specific past experience with TACAN Antennas, and answers to specific questions regarding testing approach, unattainable requirements, use by other agencies, and Government Furnished Equipment/Information needs. Comments on the attached specification and SOW are encouraged.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Proposal, and no contract will be awarded based on this notice. Information gathered will inform future acquisition planning.