RFI Special Warfare FA8629-25-R-5054.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR FORCE LIFE CYCLE Management CENTER

WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE

3 Sept 2025

Tracking No. FA8629-25-R-5054

MEMORANDUM FOR: All Qualified Vendors with SAM.gov Access

FROM: AFLCMC/WISK

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

SUBJECT: Request for Information (RFI) – Special Warfare Enhanced Visual Augmentation System (EVAS)

1. NOTICE

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.

2. BACKGROUND AND SCOPE

The United States (US) Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance & Special Operations Forces (ISR & SOF) Directorate, Strike Systems Program Office (AFLCMC/WISS) is conducting market research to identify systems capable of providing Multi-spectral Night Vision Goggles for dismounted airmen.

Non-developmental, production-ready solutions are needed to replace and upgrade legacy devices.

3. CAPABILITY GAP

Air Force Special Warfare (SW) Operators lack a fully-integrated multi-spectral Night Vision System that combines the latest sensor technology with ATAK-integrated Augmented reality capability.

Fielded first-generation multi-spectral NVGs are heavy, have low-resolution high-latency thermal sensors, and limited field of view for the thermal image and Augmented Reality (AR) overlay.

Improved systems are needed to increase operator situational awareness, improved threat detection and search capability, and to minimize neck-strain and fatigue from wearing heavy, lower-performing devices.

4. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Respondents are asked to assess proposed solutions against these requirements. Provide a brief description of how your system meets each requirement. Relevant product specifications, such as resolution, may be provided if actual operational performance has not been measured or validated (such as 6.1.1.1 thru 6.1.1.2). Additional response instructions for some requirements are in italics.

Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) and Key System Attributes (KSA)s

(T) = Threshold (required).

(O) = Objective (desired, if technically feasible and cost effective). Not mandatory.

6.1 System KPPs

6.1.1 Enhanced Vision Performance

Discussion: EVAS must provide enhanced night vision during all periods of darkness without requiring man-made illumination. EVS should enhance detection and identification of personnel, objects, and threats.

For requirements 6.1.1.1 through 6.1.1.2, if operational performance is not known, provide the resolution (lp/mm and/or pixels) and sensitivity of the primary and secondary band sensors. Provide Signal to Noise ratio for each sensor. Provide Figure of Merit if applicable (analog NVIS tubes).

6.1.1.1 Performance Value: Detection Range: EVAS shall provide operators the ability to see human sized objects at distances up to 300m (T) 1000m (O) in un-obscured, no (zero illumination)/low ambient light conditions.

6.1.1.1.1 Performance Value: Obscured Detection Range: EVAS shall provide operators the ability to see human sized objects at distances up to 50m (T) 100m (O) in the presence of fog, smoke, or similar obscurants.

6.1.1.2 Performance Value: Identification Range: EVAS shall provide the ability to detect and classify a man-sized target from .25m to 400m (T) .1m to 600m (O) in un-obscured, low ambient light conditions.

6.1.1.3 Performance Value: Vision Dominance: EVAS shall provide visibility in at least one band that is not viewable by readily available image intensifier tubes including Long Wave Infra-Red (LWIR) (T) shall provide visibility in the LWIR and Short-Wave Infrared (SWIR) sensing bands (O).

Note: specify all features available for LWIR or other secondary bands, to include polarity (white-hot, black-hot, outline mode for LWIR, etc)

6.1.1.4 Performance Value: Depth Perception: EVAS Primary band depth perception capability should be equal to or better than that of an image intensifier tube (T).

Note: The primary band is the band used the majority of the time, to meet the most stringent vision requirements. At night, this band is normally NIR.

6.1.1.5 Performance Value: Color and Contrast: EVAS shall allow the operator to discern objects by differences in color and color intensity (O).

6.1.1.6 Performance Value: Field of View: EVAS primary viewing band shall have at least 40 degrees circular (or equivalent for rectangular displays) field of view (T). EVS primary band field of view should have at least 80 degree circular or 60 degrees diagonal (For rectangular digital displays) field of view (O).

6.1.1.7 Performance Value: View through windows: EVAS primary band shall be capable of imaging beyond windowpanes, vehicular glass, or other common window materials (T/O).

Rationale: Reliance on Thermal band (LWIR) would create a capability gap for operators, placing them at threat from opposing forces inside buildings and vehicles.

6.1.1.8 Performance Value: Latency: EVAS image presentation of primary band shall not have visible latency or lag that causes operator discomfort or disorientation (T/O).

Note: most LWIR sensors are currently limited to 60Hz for head-mounted solutions.

This technical limitation is acceptable as long as the primary band meets the latency requirements.

6.1.1.9 Performance Value: Resolution (Visual acuity): The primary viewing band shall have at least 20/35 resolution when tested using an appropriate 20/20 tester during the high light test procedure, and at least 20/40 resolution during the low-light test procedure.

Note: If proposed solution uses digital sensors, discuss how field-level operators will be able to test systems to determine if systems meet this requirement for use. Identify new test equipment required if traditional NVG test units can’t be used.

6.1.1.10 Performance Value: Gain control: EVAS Should provide gain control for each sensor displayed to the operator (T/O).

Identify if your solution has auto-gating to eliminate blooming from bright light sources.

Rationale: Gain control allows optimization of fusion between bands, and can improve operator retention of night vision, as well as improving survivability by reducing the glow on the operators face.

Fusion Modes: Discuss how your Fusion mode works (overlay, fully digitally fused, adjustable balance between sensors, etc). Discuss if and how fusion alignment occurs (are there operator actions upon start-up?).

Zoom – identify any zoom capability for each sensor Focus Range – specify minimum and maximum focus range for primary and secondary sensors Eye relief – Specify range Optical coatings – discuss benefit if used

6.1.2 Weight and Moment (KSA)

Discussion: Weight and Moment Arm on head have a significant impact on comfort and therefore operational suitability.

6.1.2.1 Performance Value: Weight: Total EVAS weight shall not exceed 32 oz. (T) 12

oz. (O).

Notes: Weight includes the viewing system, power source to meet 6.1.6.1, and cables for power and/or data.

6.1.2.2 Performance Value: Moment: specify moment of system to include battery pack and cabling.

6.1.3 Force Protection and Survivability (KPP)

Discussion: The requirements outline the compliance with the mandatory Key Performance Parameter for survivability. These requirements ensure that EVAS will not highlight the operator or cause harm to the operator.

6.1.3.1 Performance Value: Protect Operator - Unaided Enemy: EVAS shall not compromise operator or system through detection by sight, sound, smell beyond 25 m (T). EVAS shall not compromise operator or system from 5 m (O).

6.1.4 Materiel Reliability (KSA)

Discussion: Higher reliability reduces Life Cycle Cost for procurement and maintenance.

6.1.4.1 Performance Value: Mean Time Between Failure per one RAM metric (MTBF-

1) shall be greater than 1620 operating hrs (T) should be greater than 2592 operating hrs (O).

Note: If MTBF is not known, provide any reliability data gathered on fielded solutions.

6.1.5 Durability (KPP)

Discussion: List all environmental certifications of proposed solution if not tested to MILSTD 810 as below. Durability is the ability, through design, to survive movement to, actions on, and withdrawal from the mission location with no loss or degraded performance when exposed to operating conditions. EVAS shall operate without degradation in conditions specified in MIL-STD-810G at a minimum for the following characteristics:

6.1.5.1 Performance Value: Drop Test: EVAS shall be operable after MIL-STD-810-G drop tests (T).

6.1.5.2 Performance Value: Temperature: EVAS shall operate in ambient temperature range from minus (-) 20° F to 131°F (T). EVS should operate in ambient temperature range from minus (-) 35° F to 146°F.

Note: The Primary viewing band of EVAS must meet this requirement.

6.1.5.3 Performance Value: Submersion: EVAS shall meet IP67 rating criteria for water operations (T). EVS should be IP68 rated to 66 feet for salt water unprotected submersion (O).

6.1.5.4 Performance Value: Dust and sand: EVAS shall be able to effectively function in environmental conditions where a high level of fine particulate matter is prevalent, such as fine desert sands, and sand in solution in surf zones (T).

6.1.5.5 Performance Value: Altitude: EVAS shall be able to function without degradation at altitudes up to 30,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) (T) up to 40,000 feet

MSL.

6.1.5.6 Performance Value: Humidity: EVAS shall function without degradation (of internal device) in conditions up to 100% humidity, heavy rain, and saltwater sea spray exposure (T).

Note: Mil-STD tests that will be used are from MIL-STD-810-G or most recent issue of this MILSTD; these will be specified in any future proposal as required.

6.1.6 Power (KSA)

Discussion: GA mission profiles, as summarized in section 2.0, identify the need for a system that can operate on internal power for at least 6 hours and can utilize power from body worn systems for longer duration missions.

6.1.6.1 Performance Value: Internal Power: EVAS shall operate without external power for 6 hours (T) 8 hours (O).

Note: It is acceptable to limit operation of EVAS solution to one mode for up to 4 of the 6 hours, as long as the primary viewing scene is suitable for dismounted travel.

Note: External power is any power source other than the provided battery pack. The EVS solution must meet the internal power requirement without exceeding the total system weight and moment requirements in 6.1.2 above.

6.1.6.2 Performance Value: External Power: EVAS power shall be able to utilize power from a DC power source other than the provided battery pack (T).

6.1.6.3 Performance Value: Common Battery: EVAS should use a battery that is readily available within Department of Defense supply chains, or readily available from commercial sources (T/O).

6.1.7 Interoperability (KSA)

6.1.7.1 Performance Value: Display Video and Data: EVAS should be capable of displaying symbology (T) and being a repeater display capable of displaying any information on displayed on the operator worn computing systems to include video (O).

6.1.7.2 Performance Value: Helmet Interface: EVAS shall mount to the operators helmet (all sizes) (T/O).

Note: Helmet models are: Ops Core ballistic and non-ballistic helmets (BUMP and

FAST).

6.1.7.3 Performance Value: PPE Interface: EVAS should be wearable with ballistic and prescription glasses (T/O).

6.1.7.4 Performance Value: Weapons interoperability: EVAS components should not interfere with the operation of weapons (T).

6.1.8 Human System Integration

6.1.8.1 Performance Value: Size to Operator: System shall be adjustable to fit 5th through 95th percent male and female operators as defined in MIL-STD-1472 (T).

6.1.8.2 Performance Value: Neck protection: The mount shall be designed with a selectable breakaway feature that ensures separation of the device to avoid personal injury (T).

Note: Use of traditional NVG mount meets this requirement.

6.1.8.3 Performance Value: Eye Protection: System shall not cause damage or irritation to operator’s vision in a normal duty cycle as defined in Section 2.0 of this document (T).

6.1.9 Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

6.1.9.1 Performance Value: EMI Shielding: EVAS shall not be susceptible to nearby electromagnetic interference from body worn equipment (T/O).

6.1.9.1 Performance Value EMI interference: Shall comply with the applicable requirements in MIL-STD- 461F for dismounted operations and airborne use on GA aircraft and rotary wing assets.

6.1.10 Maintenance and Supportability

Discussion: EVAS will be maintained at two levels – unit and depot (contractor or government). System should be designed to minimize the need for special tools to perform field and in squadron repairs and maintenance, and re-use existing tools to the maximum extent possible (examples: multi-tool, lens cleaner, etc.). Specialized Support Equipment (SE) should be kept to a minimum.

6.1.10.1 Performance Value: Maintainability: Any tools required for field repairs or maintenance should be equal to or less than (size and weight) those normally carried by the operator or those normally found in the tactical environment). (O).

6.1.10.2 Performance Value: Support Equipment: Support equipment should be designed to be useable by current unit personnel performing Operator-level maintenance and operational procedures.

6.1.11 Cybersecurity

Describe all efforts supporting the cybersecurity of your proposed solution, including documentation of software code source, supply chain risk management procedures, and any completed cyber assessments (i.e. Authorization to Operate (ATO) for DoD customers. The following are requirements that systems will be assessed against, for integration into Special Warfare Operator Kits. Failure to meet these requirements would limit operator’s ability to use the Augmented Reality capability due to inability to authorize connection to ATAK via the operator-worn C2 system.

6.1.11.1 The EVAS shall utilize commercial encryption standards for wireless data transmission (e.g. TLS, IPSec), if applicable. (T/O)

6.1.11.2 The EVAS shall utilize commercial encryption standards for data stored on the device (i.e. data at rest). (T/O)

6.1.11.3 The Operating System shall utilize access controls for operation of the device, as well as the ability to control all system settings. (T/O)

6.1.11.4 The EVAS shall utilize access controls for connecting peripheral devices. (T/O)

6.1.11.5 The core software, as well as any additional applications/plug-ins, shall be hardened, utilizing secure coding best practices. (T/O)

6.1.11.6 The software shall be digitally signed and capable of periodic, secure updates. (T/O)

6.1.11.7 Supply Chain best practices shall be implemented to verify the authenticity and integrity of hardware/firmware, as well as all software components (i.e. Software Bill of Materials (SBOM)). (T/O)

Respondents are encouraged to identify any other features to include but are not limited to:

Optical or digital zoom; Image capture/recording; GPS integration; integrated illumination; Augmented reality concept and design; AI or object recognition; external video in/out.

Sustainment Concept and Requirements

7.3 Training

Fielding of this new system will drive minor requirements for initial and currency training on the system for GA. Training for AFE personnel will be required if Operator-level maintenance procedures and/or equipment are substantially different than current procedures and equipment (Hoffman devices and analog NVG systems)

7.4 Materiel/ Maintenance

Initial spare parts/ kits are required to support 12 months of unit-level maintenance and operations. Adapters may be required for analog multi-spectral solutions to be tested on fielded Hoffman testers. All new test equipment will be required if a Digital solution is fielded.

Validated checklists or manufacturer operators/tech maintenance manuals will be required with equipment orders.

New Equipment Training (NET) to be provided to personnel within 60 days of EVAS deliveries to units to include both operations training and EVAS support repair.

5. INSTRUCTION TO POTENTIAL RESPONDENTS

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

Pursuant to NAICS Code 33411, Aircraft Manufacturing, state whether the company is:

Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified Women-Owned Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified Economically Disadvantaged Women- Owned Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified HUBZone Certified (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified Veteran Owned Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified Service Disabled Veteran Owned

Small Business (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified 8(a) Certified (Yes / No) Self-Certified or Third Party Certified 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.

b. Responses may include but are not limited to:

1) Pictures

2) Drawings

3) Associations or connectivity with other end items/systems

4) Test results to support meeting threshold and objective requirements

5) Ability to deliver systems within 6 months after receipt of order

c. 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). Cost should represent the total cost of one delivered system in appropriate protective carrying Case. Please itemize cost, showing cost of NVG, battery pack(s) if separate from the NVG, and any unique parts such as helmet mounts, required to make a complete usable system.

d. 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.

e. 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 compliant with the Buy American Act or Berry Amendment (10 U.S.C.

2533a), as applicable.

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

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

h. Provide the details of New Equipment Training, including process and cost.

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

j. 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.

k. 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.

6. RESPONSES, COMMUNICATIONS, AND ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS:

a. 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.

b. Responses shall not exceed 12 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.

c. 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.

d. 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.

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

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

g. 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

h. Responses are due electronically by 12:00PM Eastern time on 24 Sept 2025 via email to:

Jared Rush

AFLCMC/WISK

Contracting Officer Jared.rush@us.af.mil

Brad Kenney

AFLCMC/WISN

Program Manager Bradford.kenney.1.ctr@us.af.mil

i. 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.

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.

Jared R. Rush

AFLCMC/WISS

Contracting Officer https://www.sam.gov/portal/SAM mailto:Bradford.kenney.1.ctr@us.af.mil