Attach 3 Frequently Asked Questions.pdf

This is a Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A) document for a Request for Information (RFI) related to a Datalink airborne and ground components acquisition effort for naval aviation systems. The RFI is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation; responses received after the deadline are not guaranteed to be reviewed.

The Government is seeking industry input on Datalink system solutions, with estimated production quantities of 200-600 airborne components and 75-250 ground components, though these are not guaranteed actual quantities. The Government anticipates awarding an Other Transaction (OT) prototype agreement under competitive procedures, with award estimated in Q2 of FY2027. The RFI is for market research to inform budget decisions, and the Government requests realistic and reasonable return on investment (ROM) data from industry. All communication must be submitted through the formal RFI process via SAM.Gov; the Government will not facilitate direct teaming arrangements between companies or provide direct technical points of contact. The effort does not include antennas, though the Government is interested in understanding industry's best possible solutions regarding antenna diversity requirements, quantity limitations, Link 16 capability, satellite capacity, and minimizing Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP). An industry briefing was held at the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium (NASC) Membership Meeting on June 25, 2026, and companies should monitor SAM.Gov and NASC for future engagement opportunities such as industry day events and one-on-one briefings.