Questions and Answers.docx

Questions and Answers

· How are you envisioning the orchestration and control layer managing connectivity between private 5G, SATCOM, and edge computing in a fully disconnected or degraded environment To preface this, the fully “disconnected” or degraded environment refers to the loss of connections to a higher echelon network (ie the DIV tactical network) and not the internet as a whole. The main communications node, with this system considered as the “Hub”, will manage all connections and be the demarcation point for backhaul to the DODIN. The edge computing is also intended to be housed at the Hub to maintain the connection with the DODIN. The Private 5G will act as a trunk, enabling the connection back to the HUB without the limitations associated with a physical connection. Authentication for access to the private 5G mesh would be tied to the certificates loaded on the physical 5G receivers at each of the dispersed CP nodes and would require routine reloads with new certificates to mitigate risk of compromise effects. It is important to note that this Private 5G is NOT the transport for the node.

· What level of autonomy are you expecting at the edge when operating without reach back, particularly for decision making and network management We would retain the current level of autonomy we have with our WIN-T infrastructure to ensure reach back to DODIN enterprise services such as Microsoft 365, Maven Smart Systems, and other cloud-based services that are hosted externally to the 1CD domain.

· How are you planning to approach integration across legacy tactical systems and newer high bandwidth platforms without introducing latency or complexity The capability we seek is for the “box” to do all the work, i.e. it takes whatever radio is connected to it and automatically converts voice into encrypted VOIP data, which then transmit that encrypted VOIP data over the output side (internet) which is then received by a internet connected computing device with a proprietary software application that emulates the interface and capability of push-to-talk comms. Acknowledging that latency cannot be eliminated, the transmission over PLEO and cellular networks should aid in minimizing latency. The crossbanding between radio waveforms should be transparent to the radio operator with the system automatically transferring voice from one radio to another through the “box”.

· Is the intent to procure a single integrated solution, or a modular approach where deployment and operational integration partners play a key role The intent is for a single integrated solution that allows for network extension through attribute-based authentication and physical security.

· How are you evaluating survivability beyond hardware hardening, specifically in terms of maintaining network performance during active cyber or electronic attack scenarios We intend to evaluate the survivability of network performance through the system’s ability to automatically assess and failover between multiple transports.

· Can the Government provide the anticipated number of concurrent users and the approximate coverage area (in square km or radius) required for the 90-day evaluation? This will enable respondents to propose an appropriately sized equipment package.

The anticipated users for the BDE MCP (Dispersed) is 131 with an approximate coverage area of a 1km Radius.

· Is the MIL-STD-188-125-1 EMP hardening requirement for the 5G system itself, or is the Government open to the 5G system being housed within a separately certified EMP-hardened enclosure?

It is preferred that the system as a whole is in a single EMP hardened enclosed to maximize mobility and rapid deployment. If the 5G system is housed within a separate EMP-hardened enclosure, they must be easily transportable as a single unit when being moved with quick connect/disconnect capability for rapid setup.

· What legacy radio systems does the requesting unit currently operate that the private 5G system would need to interoperate with during the evaluation?

The private 5G will not interoperate with any radio system and will only act as a trunk between the system (hub) and the 5G receivers at each of the dispersed command post sections (spokes).

· What type of form factor or SWAP constraints are you looking for?

We are looking for a something small enough that can be loaded in the bed of a two-seater JLTV. Small enough that it can be concealed under a vehicle soft cover and moved by hand into buildings. It should not exceed a four-man lift, though two-man lift is preferable. Operators should be able to carry the system up stairs and through standard doorways.

· Does it need to be something a soldier can carry on their kit?

No. The main system (the hub) is intended to support command posts, however the receiver/transmitter devices at the dispersed command post sections (spokes) should be small enough that it can be carried by a Soldier for set up if replacements are required.

· Beyond 5G, are you looking for other connectivity options to be integrated like LEO/Starlink?

Yes. We are looking for a system that can independently provide a network connection when it is isolated from the primary network transport. Additionally, the system must be rapidly deployable, and an integrated PLEO transport terminal reduces setup steps.