Request for Information 26R5012 - Combat Rubber Raiding Craft.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR FORCE LIFE CYCLE MANAGEMENT CENTER

WRIGHT PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE

22 April 2026

FROM: AFLCMC/WISK

Special Warfare Contracting Office 1895 Fifth Street Wright Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7200

SUBJECT: Request for Information (RFI) FA8629-26-R-5012 - Combat Rubber Raiding Craft

(CRRC) Boats

NOTICE:

1. This Sources Sought Synopsis (SSS)/Request for Information (RFI) is issued for informational purposes and market research only; it does not constitute a solicitation. The Government will not reimburse any company or individual for any expenses associated with preparing/submitting information in response to this posting. The information provided may be used by the Government in developing its acquisition strategy, statement of work/statement of objectives, and/or performance specifications. Interested parties are responsible for adequately marking proprietary or competition sensitive information contained within their response as instructed later in this posting.

BACKGROUND AND SCOPE:

2. The United States (US) Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance & Special Operations Forces (ISR & SOF) Directorate, Special Warfare (SW) Program Office (AFLCMC/WISN) is conducting market research to identify possible sources capable of providing a CRRC. The current Guardian Angel (GA) weapon system relies on CRRC boats and engines that are nearing the end of their service life and no longer fully meet the evolving requirements of the Personnel Recovery (PR) mission. The obsolescence of the current engine fleet and the limitations of the existing flat-bottom hull design in adverse weather conditions restrict operational capabilities and increase mission risk.

Specifically, the inability to operate effectively in rough seas limits the ability to conduct PR missions in certain geographic locations and weather conditions. The current program lacks a viable replacement solution that addresses these deficiencies, restores the weapon system’s full operational capability, and provides GA personnel with a reliable and effective CRRC system for all operational environments. Furthermore, the decreased fuel efficiency or increased weight of a potential replacement engine adds logistical complexity and can reduce operational range.

CAPABILITY GAP:

3. The current flat-bottom CRRC boat fleet (including reinforced bottom variants) meets the requirements for many mission sets and can be readily deployed via barrel drop. Its hull design limits operational effectiveness in rough sea conditions exceeding Sea State 3, leading to increased crew fatigue and potential for mission degradation, especially during extended transits.

The 5.2 meter V-hull variants have been demonstrated to reliably transit in Sea State 4, pushing its operational effectiveness well beyond that of its flat-bottomed counterparts. Though V-hulled CRRCs offer improved performance in adverse conditions, their deployment requires more advanced air-drop methods, precluding barrel drop capability. This leaves a gap in capability for missions requiring rapid barrel-drop deployment into rougher sea states or extended operations in choppy conditions.

REQUIREMENT:

4. The System Program Office (SPO) requirement is to procure a next-generation CRRC boat and engine system that enhances the operational capabilities of GA personnel during PR missions. This system will address the obsolescence of the current engine fleet and the limitations of existing boat hull designs in certain operational environments. The next-generation system must improve upon the current CRRC system by providing increased speed, maneuverability, reliability, and the ability to operate effectively in adverse weather conditions, while maintaining or improving upon the current system's deployment methods. A potential solution could include M50-65 High Output (HO) combined with a reinforced (drop-stitch) flat bottom hull CRRC, or a V-hulled CRRC requiring more advanced airdrop methods. Further analysis will be conducted to validate integration, lifecycle costs, compatibility with existing GA equipment and deployment methods, and suitability for operations in various environmental conditions (e.g., rough seas, cold weather).

a. Initial Operational Capability (IOC):

2 CRRCs Buy, Try, Decide at 88 TES

b. Full Operational Capability (FOC):

56 CRRCs

c. Definitions:

(1) KPP: Key Performance Parameter; capability crucial to the operational utility or operational suitability of a solution.

(2) KSA: Key System Attribute; Capability that is important to achieve for operational utility or operational suitability.

(3) (T): Threshold performance value (required to be met initially by selected object fielded).

(4) (O): Objective performance value (desired final equipment performance parameters if technically feasible and determined to be cost effective).

d. Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) CRRC:

(1) Maximum Payload Capacity: The CRRC shall transport four Operators, one Littered Patient, and 200 lbs. of operational equipment, corresponding to a minimum payload of 1780 lbs.

(T). The CRRC shall transport four Operators, one Littered Patient, and 200lbs of operational equipment, corresponding to a minimum payload of 2610 lbs. (O). Note: This Payload does not include the weight of the outboard engine. It does include the weight of all other operational equipment, including fuel bladders and lines, as well as SCUBA tanks for CRRC inflation.

(2) CRRC Minimum Speed: The CRRC, when loaded to the (T) of KPP 6.1.1, shall achieve a speed of 15 kts or greater with a Beaufort Wind Force 3 direct headwind. (T) The CRRC, when loaded to the (O) of KPP 6.1.1, shall achieve a speed of 10 kts or greater with a Beaufort Wind Force 5 direct headwind (O).

(3)Work Space: When fully deployed, the interior working space of the CRRC shall not be less than 6 feet 3 inches long and 2 feet 11 inches wide (T=O).

(4) Deck: The CRRC shall have an integrated, pressurized-air deck (T=O).

(5) Inflation System: All inflatable portions of the CRRC shall be inflated by a single-point connection to a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCUBA) tank with a yoke connector (T). In addition, the CRRC shall have a back-up manual inflation system (such as a foot pump) (O).

(6) Inflation Capacity: All inflatable portions of the CRRC shall be inflated to full pressure using a single 100cf SCUBA tank (T). All inflatable portions of the CRRC shall be inflated to full pressure using a single 80cf SCUBA tank (O).

(7) CRRC Empty Weight (without motor, fuel bladders/lines, or inflation tanks):

The CRRC shall weigh 350 lbs. or less (T). The CRRC shall weigh 300 lbs. or less (O).

(8) Hand Holds: The CRRC shall have enough hand holds for each seated passenger to hold on with both hands while underway. (T=O). Note: If handles are used, operators seated side-by-side may share handles if the handles are large enough.

(9) Life Lines: The CRRC shall have lifeline ropes, of at least ½” diameter, that run at least the length of the intended seating areas on both the starboard and port sides of the CRRC.

(T=O). Note: The lifeline rope(s) may also double as the hand holds for passengers described in

KPP (8).

(10) Inflation System Tie-Down: The CRRC shall have two (2) dedicated tie-down straps, adjustable to fit 100cf and 80cf SCUBA tanks, inside the craft (T=O).

(11) Deck Tie-Downs: The CRRC shall have not less than eight deck-mounted tie-down points distributed evenly across the working area of the deck (T=O).

e. Key System Attributes (KSAs) CRRC:

(1) Rough-Water Mobility: The CRRC, loaded to the (T) of KPP 6.1.1, shall sustain a speed of 15 knots, into a Beaufort Force 3 direct headwind, in World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Sea State 3 conditions (T). The CRRC, loaded to the (O) of KPP 6.1.1, shall sustain a speed of 10 knots, into a Beaufort Force 5 direct headwind, in WMO Sea State 5 conditions (O).

(2) Hull Geometry: The CRRC hull shall have a dead rise, measured at the transom, of

15 degrees or greater (T=O).

(3) Internal Storage: The CRRC shall have internal stowage compartments for tow-lines and boat accessories (T=O).

(4) Paddle Stowage: The CRRC shall have at least one dedicated stowage strap or mount to secure a paddle inside the craft (T=O).

(5) Repairability: The CRRC shall be field-repairable and shall include a basic tool kit to address punctures, tears, and abrasion damage (T=O).

(6) Man-Portable: The CRRC shall have enough carrying handles arranged to equally displace weight when hand carried by at least four (4) Recovery Team (RT) members. (T) The CRRC shall have enough carrying handles arranged to equally displace weight when hand carried by up to eight RT members (O).

(7) Hoistable: The CRRC shall be hoistable when inflated and configured with the outboard engine and 250 lbs. payload (T). The CRRC shall be hoistable when inflated and configured with the outboard engine and 500 lbs. payload (O).

(8) Operating in Shallow Water: The CRRC, when loaded to the (T) of KPP 6.1.1, shall have a maximum draft of 18 inches or less. (T) The CRRC, when loaded to the (O) of KPP 6.1.1, shall have a maximum draft of 12 inches or less (O).

(9) Construction: The CRRC shall have multiple isolated inflation chambers to remain afloat in the event of a puncture/tear (T=O).

(10) Pressure Relief Valves: The CRRC shall have over-pressure relief valves for all inflatable portions of the craft (T=O).

(11) Righting System: The CRRC shall have a righting system, operable by two (2) or fewer RT members, in the event the craft is capsized (T). The CRRC shall have a righting system, operable by 1 RT member, in the event the craft is capsized (O).

(12) Draining: The CRRC shall be self-bailing (T=O).

(13) Towing Points: The CRRC shall have tow eyes or similar attachment points on the bow and on the stern which are strong enough to allow the CRRC to both tow and be towed by another craft of the same type and payload (T=O).

(14) Hull Durability: All inflatable portions of the CRRC shall be constructed from a material with equal or greater puncture and abrasion resistance than 33 oz/yd2 polyurethane-coated fabric (T=O).

(15) Retroactive Capability: The CRRC transom attachment point shall accommodate the legacy RAIDER 40 hp outboard engine (T=O).

(16) Vessel Portability: The CRRC, when folded/rolled, shall not exceed 88”x36”x24”.

(T=O).

INSTRUCTION TO POTENTIAL RESPONDENTS:

5. Interested parties who desire to participate in this SSS/RFI are encouraged to submit responses that demonstrate they presently have the technology and qualifications to provide the system described above. Responses shall also include the following information:

a. Respondent Data:

Company/Institute Name Address Point of Contact (to include phone number and email address) CAGE Code Web Page URL

b. Pursuant to NAICS Code 336612, Boat Building, state whether the company is:

(1) Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(2) Women-Owned Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(3) Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(4) HUBZone Certified (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(5) Veteran Owned Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(6) Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(7) 8(a) Certified (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified

(8) SBA Certification Date: SBA Graduation Date:

State whether the company is domestically or foreign-owned (if foreign, indicate the country of ownership).

State whether the respondent is interested in being a prime or subcontractor for this requirement.

c. Describe the capability of your product or products and provide product information and specifications. Additionally, describe the capability of your product(s) to meet the desired performance requirements listed below. If you are proposing development to integrate existing or new subsystems, clearly describe your approach.

d. Responses may include but are not limited to:

(1) Pictures

(2) Training videos

(3) Architecture views

(4) Drawings

(5) Associations or connectivity with other end items/systems

(6) Test results to support meeting threshold and objective requirements

(7) Ability to deliver 2 units within 6 months after receipt of order

e. Rough cost estimate (i.e. rough order of magnitude (ROM)) based on an optimum or varied pricing quantities (this is for Government budget planning purposes and will not be considered a bid or binding in any manner). If development and/or integration is required to meet the system requirements, the Government also needs an estimate of the development cost based on complexity (for planning purposes only) to include PHS&T, such as warranties, portable storage, special tooling required, and training.

f. Indicate whether the company is currently performing this type of work/whether the capability can be obtained under an existing Government contract. Provide the contract number(s) and Government points of contact accordingly.

g. Indicate whether the company currently provides this type of work as a commercial solution. In this instance, “commercial item” means an item that is of a type customarily used by the general public or non-Governmental entities for purposes other than Governmental purposes. Please indicate if this item has been sold, leased, or licensed to the general public; or has been offered for sale, lease, or license to the general public. Indicate whether all materials used are in compliance with the Buy American Act or Berry Amendment (10 U.S.C. 2533a), as applicable.

h. Please include product warranty terms as applicable, along with any warranty limitations. If product warranty terms are not applicable, please include N/A.

i. Include any spare parts that would potentially be included.

j. Provide the details of training including process and cost.

k. Describe any possible product improvements that could be made or are planned for the future for the solution.

l. Describe any risks associated with the fulfillment of this projected requirement. This can include technical or schedule risks associated with development, key performance parameters, etc.

m. Please provide specific details and rationale as to how compliance with FAR 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting, and FAR 52.219-33, Non-Manufacturer

Rule, would be achieved in the event the Government sets this requirement aside for small business. Include specific details regarding teaming arrangements, etc. If subcontracts are to be used, provide the anticipated percentage of effort to be subcontracted and whether small or large businesses, including foreign, will be used. If this effort is not set-aside for small business, small business utilization will be considered. Large and small businesses should provide a reasonable expectation for small business utilization as a percent of total contract value as well as supporting rationale for the recommended percentage.

RESPONSES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS:

6. The Government may contact respondents to obtain additional information or clarification in order to fully understand a company's response. This may include discussions, site visits, demonstrations, etc. to further the Government's understanding of a proposed solution, as well as a company's understanding of the Government's requirements.

7. Responses shall not exceed 15 pages (including cover page). Include technical and descriptive text and photographs/illustrations to provide sufficient detail. The submitted documentation becomes the property of the United States Government and will not be returned.

8. Respondents shall clearly mark proprietary data with the appropriate markings. Any proprietary information received in response to this request will be properly protected from any unauthorized disclosure. Any material that is not marked will be considered publicly-releasable.

9. Government-contracted contractor support personnel may handle proprietary data submitted in response to this RFI. These support personnel will have signed the same Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) as Government personnel.

10. If you are currently providing your proposed capability on an existing Government contract, please identify the contract and a Government POC.

11. Broad industry participation for this RFI is encouraged. U.S. and non-U.S. firms are permitted to respond.

12. Please note that prospective contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database to be awarded a DOD contract; the NAICS code for this requirement, if applicable to the company’s capabilities, should be included in the company’s NAICS code listing in SAM. To learn more about this SAM requirement and how to register, please visit the SAM website at: https://www.sam.gov/portal/SAM

13. Responses are due electronically by 12:00PM Eastern time on 20 May 2026 via email to:

Jamie Sclafani Kameron Patterson

AFLCMC/WISK AFLCMC/WISN

Contracting Officer Program Manager Jamie.sclafani@us.af.mil kameron.patterson.1.ctr@us.af.mil

14. This notice may be updated as additional information becomes available. Questions regarding this announcement shall be submitted in writing by email to the Contracting Officer identified above, with the other individuals identified above copied as a courtesy.

15. This is a Request for Information (RFI) only to identify potential sources for the solution.

The information provided in the RFI is subject to change and is not binding on the Government. The Government has not made a commitment to procure any of the items discussed, and release of this RFI should not be construed as creating such a commitment or as an authorization to incur cost for which reimbursement would be required or sought.

mailto:Jamie.sclafani@us.af.mil mailto:kameron.patterson.1.ctr@us.af.mil