R1 NGTIS Network RFI_v2.pdf

Subject: Request for Information: Common Network Solution for OCONUS Combat Training Centers – Instrumented Live Training

1. INTRODUCTION

The Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation (PEO STRI) is seeking information from qualified organizations and experts to inform the acquisition of a Network Solution for outside the continental United States (OCONUS) Combat Training Centers – Instrumented Live Training (OCTC-ILT). This system will improve the Live training capabilities, enabling the integration of new Synthetic Training Environment (STE) training devices and improving the ability to capture training data.

STE Live Training System (LTS) Increment 1 includes simulators for grenades, Claymores, 81mm and 60mm mortars, and Stinger missiles. Increment 2 has not yet been defined and requirements for Increment 2 are not part of this RFI.

Currently the Increment 1 devices are being fielded at the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) and the National Training Center (NTC). The devices fielded at these locations connect to the Instrumentation System using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and Long-Term Evolution (LTE) cellular. Existing cellular communications infrastructure at these locations is sufficient for the level of traffic for Increment 1 devices. The network traffic from these devices is similar to traffic from legacy Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) equipment. The diagram below presents an overview of the current solution in place for these locations. This is provided to clarify the approach PEO STRI has used, and it is not intended as a requirement.

Figure 1High Level Network Diagram STE-LTS Increment 1

In this diagram the label IPU represents an Instrumented Player Unit worn by a human.

RDMS is the Range Data Management system which is the network that transfers messages from the individual to the Instrumentation System. The term CTCS-D indicates a laptop computer that may be used to view the current state of an exercise given an interface to the wireless network.

The version of the IPU shown below is a recent update referred to as a Lite Weight IPU which requires less power and a lighter battery than previous generations of the IPU.

Again, this diagram is provided to give insight into the type of messaging and application running on the existing solution in a CONUS environment and should not be considered a constraint on potential OCONUS solutions. Specific software and applications change as different configurations of training equipment are placed in use, updated, and removed. PEO STRI maintains a standard to keep messaging in a consistent format.

Figure 2 Detailed Data Transmission STE-LTS Increment 1

There are two OCONUS systems where PEO STRI would like to field the Increment 1 devices. The Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JRMC) supporting Europe and the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) supporting the Pacific make use

Key

GOVT SW GDMS SW COTS SW

Bluetooth

Zigbee

Narrowband RF

4G LTE Cellular

GNSS

Laser

Wired Interface (Data)

Wired Interface (Power)

RUGGED CELL PHONE

SONIM XP-8

US00241366

TESS ADAPTER

GDMS UTA

US00237012

DB-26

INTEGRATED DOCK

US00263323

Soldier Worn Pouch IWS HCU Pocket

USB-C

RECHARGABLE BATTERY

BREN-TRONICS BT-70838-2/3CV

US00252237

Commercial Tower

AT&T APN

ISP

Infrastrcuture

GNSS

Constellations

BT

LTEGPS

BT HALO

FRONT DETECTOR

BACK DETECTOR

IR TRANSCEIVER

SPEAKER

IWS VEST

GFE

LEMO

Serial

LTEC

LCS

Live Training Application (LTA)

External Battery Manager

LTE Limiter

Launcher

Kiosk Control Hub

Software Update Client

UTA-X Embedded FW

Android O S

N ordic ZEPHYR

Storage Case

ECS

US00235023

USB-C

RIFLEMAN KIT

US00234833

Pouch Condor

US00259552

of Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) rather than LTE to support wireless communication. Furthermore, the existing devices at these locations do not support BLE communication. This presents a gap in integration of the Increment 1 products with the OCONUS CTCs. PEO STRI is seeking effective means to integrate Increment 1 devices with the MILES equipment at JMRC and JPMRC.

In addition, information from this RFI may influence integration of STE-LTS Increment 1 products at home station locations.

2. INSTRUCTIONS FOR RESPONDING

• Response Format: Respond electronically in either MSWord or PDF format.

• Submission Method: Respond via email to: brian.m.williams14.civ@army.mil

• Contact Person: Bruce Robbins; bruce.e.robbins.civ@army.mil

• Deadline for Submission: 10 SEP 2025

• Page Limits: No more than 8 standard, 8.5 x 11 pages.

• Confidentiality: Clearly state if the information in the response is proprietary to your company. No responses requiring a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) will be accepted.

3. TECHNICAL AND PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

PEO STRI needs to support Combat Training Center (CTC) operations for two CTCs: Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Capability (JPMRC) and Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC). The use case and technical details for each are supplied. Technical requirements common to both use cases are given after the use cases.

3.1. JPMRC

3.1.1. Use Case

JPMRC is based out of Schofield Barracks, HI and is used at various locations throughout the Indo-Pacific including international locations. This system may be used with participants from partner nations. The system provides connectivity for an instrumented exercise in a training area up to 20 X 40 kilometers supporting 4000 instrumented participants and additional traffic from simulated activities. In general, an exercise will run for 14 days with a 7-day setup prior, and a 7-day clear out period after. Transit of the system between exercise locations may be by ship or aircraft.

3.1.2. Existing Technical Solution

The existing system is a Saab proprietary network using TDMA to enable wireless communication over radio channels in support of Live Training exercises. The system includes the setup of numerous towers allowing connectivity across the training area supporting the legacy MILES protocols for communication. The current system does not provide BLE communication desired for the STE-LTS Increment 1 devices. It does not have an LTE network for connecting devices using LTE.

3.1.3. Expeditionary Locations

The system may be used at sites in Alaska and Hawaii. However, it is intended to service expeditionary locations including sites in Japan, Australia, and the Philippines. The locations represent realistic conditions where the US forces may operate. As such, the sites may be unimproved with limited or no infrastructure and electricity. Such sites do not generally have a robust cellular infrastructure. Spectrum availability is based on the host nation and is not provided by the US military.

3.2. JMRC

3.2.1. Use Case

JMRC is based out of Hohenfels, Germany with many exercises conducted there and at Grafenwoehr. In addition, portions of the system are often used in other countries in Eastern Europe and support training with partner nations.

The existing system supports connectivity for an instrumented exercise in a training area of 40 X 40 kilometers split across multiple physical locations.

Exercises supporting 3,500 instrumented participants and additional traffic from virtual activities. The voice network supports up to 3,000 radio transmitters. In general, an exercise will run for 14 days with a 5-day setup prior, and a 5-day clear up period after. Equipment needs to conform to European safety and communication standards. The ability to make use of multinational power standards is a plus. Transit of the system between exercise locations is typically by truck across European roads.

3.2.2. Existing Technical Solution

The existing system is a Tetra based RDMA network with permanent towers across portions of the range at Hohenfels and mobile towers which may be raised for additional connectivity when needed. The current network devices do not provide BLE communication. The system does not have an LTE network and there is limited coverage in many of the areas where this system is used.

Spectrum availability is based on the regulations of the host nation.

3.2.3. Expeditionary Locations

In addition to the Germany location, the system may be used to support training at partner nations in Europe. Such locations would be accessible by road from Hohenfels with vehicles conforming to European transportation standards. These locations are typically training locations for partner nations and may have limited infrastructure. Power standards would be based on the host nation. Cellular infrastructure may be limited, and spectrum determination would be based on the host nation. Such nations include, but are not limited to, Latvia, Poland, Denmark, Austria, the Czech Republic, and the Netherlands.

3.3. End User Devices

Given that the existing devices will not support BLE connections, PEO STRI recognizes it may be necessary to field new end user devices to support STE LTS Increment 1 devices. The new devices may be required even if the network transport remains the same. If LTE is not the transport mechanism, then PEO STRI would like wi-fi available on the end user devices. The intent would be to reconfigure Increment 1 devices to support wi-fi connectivity.

3.3.1. Message Transmission and Reception

Devices should have signal connectivity/range to support a variety of training areas. This range may be extended through the use of other network devices as described in the next section. Messaging needs to include Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) data in addition to handling audio and video. This is the primary focus of this RFI.

3.3.2. Rotation Operational Availability

Human worn devices should be able to support 14-day exercises. Batteries may be recharged or replaced during the exercise, but longer battery life is preferred. The expectation is for 96 hours or more. Devices should include a low-battery indicator.

3.3.3. Software Applications

These devices need to support a variety of government provided software applications similar to a smartphone. It would be useful to have a device with a graphical user interface.

3.4. Network Architecture

PEO STRI would like to minimize the infrastructure required for network setup and removal. Depending on the location of the exercise the US government may not be able to set up permanent structures for the installation of network equipment.

Network architecture needs to meet the characteristics described in this section.

3.4.1. Transmission technology – PEO STRI is open to upgrading existing TDMA networks and to moving to LTE based networks. Satellite technology may also be appropriate in remote areas. The desired solution will have support for connectivity without PEO STRI needing to reserve spectrum for each event.

3.4.2. Reliability - Network should have a 98% uptime during exercise events.

Removal of any temporary network equipment needs to be accomplished within 5 days of an event.

3.4.3. Scalability – Network architecture needs the ability to easily scale to accommodate increasing numbers of users and expanding training areas.

Training areas are 20x40 kilometers at a minimum and may extend to 60x60 kilometers. Architecture needs to support messaging from at least 4000 live participants and additional traffic virtual effects.

3.4.4. Flexibility – The network design needs to have the adaptability to support different training scenarios and evolving requirements. This may involve rapid revisions as soldiers choose unexpected maneuvers during training. PEO STRI would like to know the maximum number of users who could be supported on a tower.

3.4.5. Backhaul - There are occasions when the data needs to be transmitted from the exercise area to a control center at a different location. The response should include ways that fiber, microwave, and satellite connections could be used for this purpose. It should also describe ways to make use of existing infrastructure when available.

3.4.6. Transportability/Movement to Site – Given that the OCONUS exercises are not always in the same location the supporting infrastructure must be highly transportable including travel over European, Australian, and Japanese public roads. Responses should describe the ease of deployment and relocation of network components. PEO STRI would be interested in infrastructure that could be deployable to exercise sites using organic unit assets.

3.4.7. Tower Construction - Assess the need for tower construction and/or mobile tower deployment depending on the size and terrain of a training area. The US government may not own the training area limiting the ability to install permanent towers.

3.4.8. Power & Environmental Control - Discuss the need for power and cooling of network equipment. Discuss the need for other environmental controls on network equipment including protection from extreme cold. Discuss potential degradation of the network due to extreme weather conditions (heat, humidity, rain, snow, ice, etc.).

4. REQUESTED INFORMATION

The Government seeks to understand purchase options for wearable data transmission devices and systems in a fully interoperable OCTC-ILT. Please address the following in your response:

a) Provide an overall company profile including experience with similar projects.

b) Recommend a network approach for JMRC that will support operations at Hohenfels and Grafenwoehr.

c) Recommend a network approach for JMRC that will support operations at locations in allied Eastern European nations.

d) Recommend an end user device to connect STE-LTS Increment 1 devices and existing MILES devices to the recommended network.

e) Recommend a network approach for JPMRC that will support operations at Schofield Barracks, HI.

f) Recommend a network approach for JPMRC that will support operations at locations in allied nations in the Pacific.

g) Recommend an end user device to connect STE-LTS Increment 1 devices and existing MILES devices to the recommended network.

h) Provide a Rough Order of Magnitude cost estimate broken down by major components (hardware, software, installation, support) including recommended quantities. This is NOT a formal cost proposal. PEO STRI is interested in lease and service models.

5. NEXT STEPS

Following the review of RFI responses, PEO STRI may invite selected vendors to participate in more detailed technical discussion and industry collaboration sessions on the topic.

6. SUMMARY

This RFI seeks information from industry partners capable of supplying an OCONUS Network solution that meets PEO STRI's requirements for delivering Live training operations with emphasis on the INDOPACOM area. The ideal solution will provide an adaptable means to deliver Live Training communications in the diverse locations where the Army conducts exercises.

Responses to this RFI will be used to inform acquisition planning and market research efforts for the STE-LTS program. The Government does not intend to award a contract based solely on responses to this RFI but will use the information gathered to refine requirements and acquisition strategy.

Disclaimer:

This RFI is issued solely for information and planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation. PEO STRI reserves the right to not proceed with any procurement or engagement based on the information received.

Thank you for your interest and participation.