Attachment 0001 NGT II - PWS.pdf

PDF 1022 KB Posted

Attached to
Next Generation Transponders (NGT) II
Solicitation number
W519TC-25-R-NGT2
Issued by

About this file

This Performance Work Statement (PWS) details the Next Generation Transponder (NGT)-II contract for developing advanced tracking technology for the Department of Defense (DoD), US Coast Guard, NATO, and other federal agencies. The NGT-II project aims to provide cutting-edge cellular, satellite, and hybrid transponders capable of tracking government assets worldwide, with diverse applications including inventory management, military transportation logistics, monitoring perishable goods, hazardous materials tracking, and convoy control.

Key technical requirements include transponders that can operate in extreme environments (-40C to +85C), support worldwide geographic coverage, utilize advanced encryption, report location data every 2-4 hours, have a 120-day battery life, and comply with multiple cybersecurity and military standards. The contract will support six geographic combatant commands, provide three-year warranties, include technical engineering services, and offer flexible data reporting options. Transponders must be rugged, have subdued coloration, measure under 86 cubic inches, support USB-C charging, and be capable of cellular (5G/4G/3G/2G), satellite, and hybrid communication modes.

View the file

Other files

File Type Posted
Attachment 0002 NGT II - Q and A Matrix.xlsx XLSX spreadsheet

On GovTribe

Work with this file

  • Download the original file
  • Contacts named in this file
  • Similar government files
  • Ask GovTribe AI about this file

Text version

Next Generation Transponder (NGT)-II

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

Version 1.0

10 February 2025

Revision Log Date Revision # Changes

10 Feb 2025 1.0 PWS Finalized

1. General Scope

1.1 Product Lead Logistics Information Systems

1.2 NGT Acquisition

1.2.1 Objectives

1.2.2 Use and Application

1.2.3 World-Wide Geographic Support

2. Applicable Documents, Definitions, and Acronyms

2.1 Applicable Documents

2.2 Definitions

2.3 Acronyms

3. Government Standards and Compliance

3.1 Item Unique Identification (IUID)

3.2 Defense Information Standards Registry

3.3 Government Testing/Certifications

3.3.1 Electromagnetic Interference and Environment

3.3.2 Ordnance Environment

3.3.3 Common Criteria Compliance Requirements

3.4 Spectrum Supportability Compliance

3.5 DOD’s Approved Product List

3.6 Operating Environments

3.7 Cybersecurity Requirements

3.8 Wireless Device Security Requirements

4. Transponder and Data Requirements

4.1 Transponders with Cellular Capabilities

4.2 Transponders with Satellite Capabilities

4.3 Labels

4.3.1 Hero Label

4.4 Color

4.5 Size

4.6 Mounting

4.7 Power Requirements

4.8 Transponder Data

4.8.1 Exchange

4.8.2 Data Rights

4.8.3 Reporting

4.9 Equipment Delivery

5. Program Support

5.1 Points of Contact(s)

5.2 Program Management

5.3 User Guide

5.4 24/7 Service Desk

5.5 Website

5.6 Warranty

5.7 Risk Management

6. Technical Engineering Services (TES)

6.1 Labor Categories

6.1.1 Project Manager Senior

6.1.2 Systems Engineer Journeyman

6.1.3 Software Engineer Journeyman

6.1.4 Information Systems Training Manager Journeyman

6.2 TES Request for Proposal

6.3 TES Task Order Award

7. Contract

7.1 Attachments

7.2.1 Project Progress Reviews (PPR)

7.3 Contract Changes and Modifications

7.3.2.1 CCP NUMBERING CONVENTION

7.3.2.2 CCP RESPONSE TIME

8. ANTI-TERRORISM / OPERATIONS SECURITY (AT/OPSEC) REQUIREMENTS

8.1 OPSEC Standing Operating Procedure/Plan

8.2 OPSEC Training

1. General Scope

1.1 Product Lead Logistics Information Systems

The Product Lead Logistics Information Systems (PL LIS) mission is to provide support for automated military transportation and tactical supply systems after they are deployed.

Specifically, PL LIS oversees Standard Army Ammunition System (SAAS), Radio Frequency- In-Transit Visibility (RF-ITV), Transportation Coordinators' Automated Information for Movements System II (TC-AIMS II), Property Book Unit Supply Enhanced (PBUSE). As the chartered acquisition manager, PL LIS is responsible for managing legacy logistics and transportation information systems, ensuring they operate effectively as defense business systems.

The Radio Frequency-In-Transit Visibility (RF-ITV) system plays a crucial role in providing tracking and visibility of military shipments and supplies, combining data from Active Radio Frequency Identification (aRFID), cellular, and satellite tracking devices, as well as other DoD systems, to give a comprehensive picture of materiel and transportation movements.

1.2 NGT Acquisition

1.2.1 Objectives

The primary objectives of the NGT-II acquisition are to provide cutting-edge cellular, satellite, and hybrid tracking technologies, as well as comprehensive support services, to meet the global logistics needs of the Department of Defense (DOD), US Coast Guard (USCG), North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and other federal agencies. The goal is to standardize and ensure interoperability among government users, while also providing flexibility to support joint operations with allied partners and meet Foreign Military Sales (FMS) requirements, ultimately enhancing logistics support and coordination worldwide.

1.2.2 Use and Application

The Government plans to utilize NGT-II technology in applications that surpass the capabilities of traditional technologies like bar codes and Radio Frequency Identification. To achieve this, NGT-II transponders will be attached to assets or objects of interest, enabling the capture and transmission of various data sets, which will then be stored and processed according to the specifications outlined in the Performance Work Statement

(PWS).

The anticipated applications of NGT-II are diverse and include, but are not limited to, tracking government assets, managing inventory and warehousing, and monitoring military transportation and logistics. Other uses could include handling perishable goods, such as medical supplies and food, as well as hazardous materials, controlling military convoys, and providing health and intrusion monitoring through advanced sensor technologies. These applications highlight the versatility and potential of NGT-II to support a wide range of critical functions.

1.2.3 World-Wide Geographic Support

The Government needs NGT-II equipment that can be used worldwide, and the Contractor is expected to provide comprehensive support, including NGT-II hardware, communication services, Technical Engineering Services (TES), warranty, and Program Support, to all six geographic combatant commands: USNORTHCOM, USINDOPACOM, USCENTCOM, USEUCOM, USSOUTHCOM, and USAFRICOM.

2. Applicable Documents, Definitions, and Acronyms

2.1 Applicable Documents

The Contractor is required to adhere to specific standards and Government guidelines, including all updates, revisions, and modifications to these documents, as applicable, to ensure compliance with the latest regulations and requirements.

• American National Standard Institute (ANSI) InterNational Committee for

Information Technology Standards (INCITS) 256-2001: ANSI INCITS 256-2001 for Information Technology Radion Frequency Identification (RFID)

• Army Regulation (AR) 25-2: Information Management: Army Cyber Security, Headquarters, Department of the Army, Washington DC, 4 April 2019

• AR 381-12: Military Intelligence, Threat Awareness and Reporting Program, Headquarters, Department of the Army, Washington DC, 1 June 2016

• AR 530-1: Operations and Signal Security, Operations Security, Headquarters, Department of the Army, Washington DC, 26 September 2014

• Army Best Business Practice 09-EC-M-0010: United States Army Chief Information Officer (CIO)/G-6 Cyber Directorate, Information Assurance Best Business Practice, 09-EC-M-0010, Wireless Security Standards, version 4.0, 26 June 2013

• DD Form 1494: Application for Equipment Frequency Allocation, Aug 96, Includes DD 1494 Forms and Instructions for: DOD General Information; Transmitter Equipment Characteristics; Receiver Equipment Characteristics; Antenna Equipment Characteristics; and NTIA General Information

• Department of Defense Directive (DODD) 5000.1: The Defense Acquisition System, Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, 9 September

• DODD 8100.02: Use of Commercial Wireless Devices, Services, and Technologies in the DOD GIG, April 14, 2004

• DoDD 8140.01: Cyberspace Workforce Management, Office of the DoD Chief Information Officer, 5 October 2020

• Department of Defense Instruction (DODI) 4650.01: Policy and Procedures for Management and Use of the Electromagnetic Spectrum, 9 January 2009, Incorporating Change 1, 17 October 2017

• DODI 8100.04: Unified Capabilities (UC), 9 December 2010

• DODI 8420.01: Commercial Wireless Local-Area Network (WLAN) Devices, Systems, and Technologies, Office of the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense, 3 November 2017

• DODI 8420.02: DOD Satellite Communications (SATCOM), September 15, 2016.

• DODI 8500.01: Cybersecurity, March 14, 2014 (Incorporating Change 1, Effective

October 7, 2019).

• DODI 8510.01: Risk Management Framework (RMF) for DoD Systems, Office of the DoD Chief Information Officer, 19 July 2022

• Department of Defense Manual (DODM) 8140.03: Cyberspace Workforce

Qualification and Management Program, 15 February 2023

• DoD UC Approved Products List (APL) Process Guide V2.4, dated December

• Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFAR) 252.211-7003: DFAR

Supplement 252.211-7003 Item Unique Identification and Valuation

• DFAR 252.239.7001: DFAR Supplement 252.239.7001, Information Assurance

Contractor Training and Certification, Jan 2008

• Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standard 802.11: IEEE Standard for Information technology. Telecommunications and information exchange between systems Local and metropolitan area networks--Specific requirements - Part 11: Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications

• Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.204-2: Security Requirements Clause, Part 52 - Solicitation Provisions and Contract Clauses, Federal Acquisition Regulation, March

• International Organization for Standardization (ISO)/IEC 15963:2020:

ISO/IEC 15963-2 Information Technology Radion Frequency Identification for Item Management, 2020-03

• ISO/IEC 18000-7: ISO/IEC 18000-7 Information Technology Radio Frequency Identification for Item Management, 1 Sep 2014

• Military Standard (MIL-STD) 461D: Requirements for the Control of Electromagnetic Interference Emissions and Susceptibility, Defense Technical Information Center, 11 January 1993

• MIL-STD-461F: DoD Interface Standard, Requirements for the Control of Electromagnetic Interference Characteristics of Subsystems and Equipment, 10 December 2007

• MIL-STD-462D: DoD Test Method Standard for Measurement of Electromagnetic Interference Characteristics, 11 January 1993

• MIL-STD-464A: DoD Interface Standard, Electromagnetic Environmental Effects Requirements for Systems, 19 December 2002

• National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-71:

Recommendation for Key Establishment Using Symmetric Block Ciphers, National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce, June 2018

• NIST 800-53 Revision 4: Security and Privacy Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations, April 2013 (Updated January 22, 2015).

• NIST Federal Information Processing Standards Publication 140-3: Security Requirements for Cryptographic Modules, March 22, 2019.

• Office of Management and Budget Circular No. A-130, Revised (Transmittal Memorandum No. 4): Management of Federal Information Resources – Appendix III, Security of Federal Automated Information Resources, 28 November 2000.

• Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

• Section 255 of the Communications Act

As part of the contract, the Contractor is allowed to propose alternative or additional standards that meet or exceed the requirements, at no extra cost to the Government. The Contractor is also responsible for ensuring that the devices and systems provided comply with any updates or changes to the security standards and documents, and must make necessary configuration changes, such as installing patches or performing hardware/software upgrades, as approved by the Government, to maintain compliance throughout the contract period.

2.2 Definitions

For clarity and consistency, specific terms used in this PWS are defined below. Unless otherwise specified, all other terms and definitions will follow standard IT industry usage and meanings.

Equipment – The term “equipment,” as used throughout the PWS, refers to any combination of hardware, software, device drivers, utilities, libraries, and firmware.

Industrially Hardened Components – Components that can operate in a warehouse or manufacturing setting and survive the rough treatment and handling often found in shipping areas, loading docks, catwalks, ladders, or on the floor of a manufacturing facility.

NGT-II Devices: The term "NGT-II Devices" refers specifically to the cellular, satellite, and hybrid transponders that are the subject of this contract being provided by the Contractor.

Order – The term “order,” as used in this PWS, refers to a Delivery Order (DO), Task

Order (TO), or Purchase Card Order (PO) used to buy products and/or services under the master agreement.

Rugged – The terms “rugged” or “ruggedized,” as used in this PWS, means that the

Government requires NGT-II equipment that is industrially hardened, designed, built, and tested to ensure reliable and continuous performance in all rugged and austere environments.

2.3 Acronyms

The document utilizes various acronyms, which are listed below for reference and clarity, to ensure a common understanding of the terminology used throughout the document.

Acronym Term 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th Generation A&A Assessment and Authorization AC Alternating Current APL Approved Product list AR Army Regulation aRFID Active Radio Frequency Identification C Cellular CCP Contract Change Proposal CCPP Common Criteria Protection Profile CCTL Common Criteria Test Laboratory CDRL Contract Data Requirements List CLIN Contract Line Item Number CONUS Continental United States COR Contracting Officer’s Representative CPM Contractor Program Manager DD Form Department of Defense Form

DFARS Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement DISR Defense Information Standards Registry DO Delivery Order DOD Department of Defense DODD Department of Defense Directive DODI Department of Defense Instruction DODM Department of Defense Manual EMI Electromagnetic Interference EMSS Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services FFP Firm Fixed Price FIPS Federal Information Processing Standards FMS Foreign Military Sales GIG Global Information Grid GSM Global System for Mobile Communication HERO Hybrid HERO Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance IA Information Assurance ICD Interface Control document IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers IP Ingress Protection IO Information Operations ISO International Organization for Standardization IT Information Technology ITV In-Transit Visbility IUID Item Unique Identification KO Contracting Officer LIS Logistics Information Systems LTE Long-Term Evolution MIL-STD Military Standard NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization NGT Next Generation Transponder NGT-II Next Generation Transponder Contract #2 NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology NTP Notice to Proceed OCONUS Outside Continental United States OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer OMB Office of Management and Budget PBUSE Property Book Unit Supply Enhanced PL Product Lead PL LIS Product Lead Logistics Information Systems PO Purchase Card Order POC Point of Contact PPR Project Progress Review PWS Performance Work Statement

RFID Radio Frequency Identification RF-ITV Radio Frequency-In-Transit Visibility RFP Request for Proposal RMA Return Material Authorization RMF Risk Management Framework S Satellite SAAS Standard Army Ammunition System SATCOM DOD Satellite Communcations SBD Short Burst Data SLIN Sub-line item number SOAP Simple Object Access Protocol TAV Total Asset Visibility

TC-AIMS II Transportation Coordinators' Automated Information for Movements System II

TES Technical Engineering Services TO Task Order UC Unifiied Capabilities UCR Unified Capabilities Requirement UG User Guide UL Underwriters Laboratory US United States USAFRICOM U.S. Africa Command USB Universal Serial Bus USB-C Universal Serial Bus Type-C USB-MIRCO Universal Serial Bus Micro USCENTCOM U.S. Central Command USCG United States Coast Guard USEUCOM U.S. European Command USINDOPACOM U.S. Indo-Pacific Command USNORTHCOM U.S. Northern Command

3. Government Standards and Compliance

3.1 Item Unique Identification (IUID)

According to the DOD’s policy, as outlined in DFARS 252.211-7003, Item Unique

Identification and Valuation, the NGT-II contract is exempt from Item Unique Identification (IUID) requirements, meaning that no equipment provided under this contract will need to comply with IUID regulations.

3.2 Defense Information Standards Registry

The Defense Information Standards Registry (DISR) provides a set of rules to ensure that DOD systems are interoperable, scalable, and portable. However, the NGT-II equipment specified in this contract is not considered a system, but rather a component that provides transportation and logistics data to other DOD information systems. As such, the NGT-II equipment is exempt from full DISR compliance, but is required to interface with specific support systems, including the RF-ITV Server, as outlined in an Interface Control Document (ICD) that will be developed and updated annually throughout the contract period (See Attachment 4 – NGT-II ICD Example).

3.3 Government Testing/Certifications

The NGT-II devices must undergo rigorous Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and

Hazards of Electromagnetic Radiation to Ordnance (HERO) testing prior to product delivery to users, with the Contractor providing full support for Government compliance verification, security certification, and accreditation. This includes cooperating with Government personnel, providing access to facilities, documentation, and personnel, and assisting in resolving any problems that arise during testing, such as addressing problem reports, conducting technical investigations, and performing additional testing as needed. The Contractor must also provide staff availability during testing, if required, to ensure the successful completion of the Government's testing and evaluation process. All support provided by the Contractor must be at no additional cost to the Government and will be directed by the Government Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), who will coordinate the scheduling of any evaluation with the Contractor to ensure a smooth and efficient testing process.

To facilitate this testing, the Contractor is required to provide activated and operational transponders for each Contract Line Item Number (CLIN) they are awarded for each test. These transponders must be delivered directly to the Government Test Facility, within 14 calendar days of contract award. Specific Government Test Facility will be provided at contract award.

The Government will cover the initial testing costs for HERO and EMI, but the

Contractor will be responsible for any subsequent testing costs due to late delivery, item failure, or product substitution/replacement. This means that if a transponder fails testing or needs to be replaced, the Contractor will be responsible for covering the costs of any additional testing required.

3.3.1 Electromagnetic Interference and Environment

The NGT-II equipment is intended for use in environments where it may be exposed to low-level signals and/or high-level signals from spectrum-dependent devices, as outlined in MIL-STD-464A and MIL-STD-461F. To ensure the equipment's compatibility and certification for use in these environments, the Government will conduct radiated emission and susceptibility tests, as specified in MIL-STD 461D and MIL-STD-462D. The Contractor is required to support these testing efforts, by providing technical data sheets, responding to requests for additional data from the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), and cooperating with Government testing and certification activities to validate the NGT-II equipment's electromagnetic compatibility.

3.3.2 Ordnance Environment.

The NGT-II equipment may be deployed in proximity to ordnance that is sensitive to radiated energy, posing a potential risk of unintended detonation or malfunction. To mitigate this risk, the Government will conduct rigorous HERO testing on the Contractor's awarded transponder(s), in accordance with MIL-STD 464A, to determine whether the NGT-II equipment can be safely used in these environments without posing a hazard to the ordnance.

3.3.3 Common Criteria Compliance Requirements

The Contractors shall ensure their NGT-II equipment is tested and compliant with the Medium Robustness level, as defined in the Common Criteria Protection Profile (CCPP) standard. Any non-compliant product shall not be delivered to end users until certified. The Contractor is responsible for prioritizing compliance with the CCPP standard to ensure their equipment meets the required security and robustness levels.

If a CCPP for NGT technology is adopted, the Contractor shall submit their product for Common Criteria testing within six months. Testing is conducted by a National Information Assurance Partnership -approved Common Criteria Test Laboratory (CCTL). More information on Common Criteria compliance can be found at http://www.commoncriteriaportal.org/.

3.4 Spectrum Supportability Compliance

The DOD requires spectrum supportability guidance and approvals prior to using NGT-II equipment that transmits or receives electromagnetic energy. This involves ensuring compliance with applicable DOD, National, and International spectrum management policies and regulations, including spectrum certification in accordance with DODI 4650.01 and DODD 5000.01.

The Contractor shall provide technical data, including transmitter, receiver, and antenna characteristics, to facilitate host nation coordination and frequency allocation. This data will be used to complete the Department of Defense (DD) Form 1494), Application for Equipment Frequency Allocation, which must be submitted within 14 calendar days of contract award, Notice to Proceed (NTP), or approval of a Contract Change Proposal (CCP), (see Attachment #5, DD Form 1494).

The Contractor shall be responsible for providing technical support to complete the spectrum supportability process, including providing any additional information required for spectrum certification, such as test results and equipment specifications. All Contractor-provided spectrum supportability compliance support will be provided at no additional cost to the Government. The frequency allocation will be documented with a DD Form 1494 and/or a "Note to Holder", as appropriate. The Contractor's support is crucial to ensure that the NGT-II equipment can be safely and effectively deployed in the field, and to obtain frequency allocation and comply with spectrum management regulations. By providing the necessary technical data and support, the Contractor will enable the US Army to obtain the required spectrum supportability guidance and approvals, ensuring the successful deployment of the NGT-II equipment.

3.5 DOD’s Approved Product List

The Contractor shall ensure their products are listed on the DOD Unified Capabilities (UC) Approved Product List (APL) prior to delivery. If a product is not listed, the Contractor shall complete documentation and submit it to the governing body within 21 calendar days to conform to Unified Capabilities Requirement (UCR) policies including DODI 8100.04: Unified Capabilities, 9 December 2010 and DoD UC APL Process Guide V2.4, dated December 2016.

The Government shall reserve the right to place non-compliant products on CONTRACT RESERVE until they obtain Information Operations (IO) and Information Assurance (IA) certification and are posted on the UC APL. The Contractor shall provide email updates to the COR regarding the product's status on the UC APL until it is listed.

3.6 Operating Environments

The NGT-II equipment shall operate in diverse and “rugged” environments, including industrial, hazardous, and ordnance settings, as well as on naval vessels, aircraft, and tanks, and in areas with high electromagnetic noise and interference. The equipment shall be suitable for outdoor use in extreme environments, such as desert and arctic areas, and shall withstand rough handling, continuous operational use, vibration, and shock caused by transportation over rough terrain. The Contractor shall certify that the provided components meet applicable Environmental Protection Act requirements. The NGT-II equipment shall have a minimum operational temperature range of -40C to +85C and a minimum storage temperature range of - 50C to +125C. Additionally, the equipment shall remain operational after being dropped onto concrete from a height of six feet and shall have an Ingress Protection (IP) rating of 67, ensuring protection against dust and water immersion.

3.7 Cybersecurity Requirements

The NGT-II equipment and systems provided by the Contractor shall comply with applicable cybersecurity requirements specified in DODI 8500.01, Cybersecurity, including stand-alone information systems, networked computers and servers, mobile computing devices, and other information technologies. The Contractor shall support Government efforts to obtain Assessment and Authorization (A&A) for the products in accordance with DODI 8510.01, Risk Management Framework (RMF) for DoD Information Technology (IT). To facilitate A&A, the Contractor shall provide documentation, including component design specifications, user manuals, and security test results, and grant access to Contractor personnel involved in design, engineering, operations, and security attributes of the products. This support is essential to ensure the security and integrity of the NGT-II equipment and systems, and to comply with DOD cybersecurity requirements.

3.8 Wireless Device Security Requirements

The NGT-II equipment and systems that utilize wireless technologies, including IEEE Standard 802.11 WLAN products, to store, process, or transmit unclassified information shall comply with specific security requirements. These requirements include those specified in DODI 8420.01, Commercial Wireless Local-Area Network (WLAN) Devices, Systems, and Technologies; DODI 8420.02, DoD Satellite Communications (SATCOM), September 15, 2016;

AR25-2, Information Management; Army Best Business Practice 09-EC-M-0010, Wireless Security Standards. The Contractor shall ensure that all NGT-II implementations that use wireless technologies meet these requirements to ensure the security and integrity of the information being transmitted.

4. Transponder and Data Requirements The Contractor shall provide a rechargeable cellular, satellite, and/or hybrid transponder as awarded by the Government, which includes a three-year warranty, a three-year airtime data service plan, and a charging cord and plug. The NGT-II contract will also include a Special Line Item Number (SLIN) that allows users to procure additional services, such as a two-year extended warranty, an additional one-year airtime service, and replacement charger cords.

Furthermore, the Contractor shall ensure that users with legacy devices can utilize the airtime SLIN to purchase additional airtime services for their existing transponders, providing a seamless and convenient way to maintain and extend the life of their equipment.

4.1 Transponders with Cellular Capabilities

The Contractor shall provide a device that utilizes globally recognized mobile phone standards, such as Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), and supports current generation cell phone network technology (e.g. 5G, LTE/4G). The device shall also be capable of falling back to alternative standards (e.g. 3G and 2G) to ensure global interoperability on the data provider's cellular networks.

The Contractor shall activate the cellular network for the devices but shall delay the start of airtime services until the end user requests initiation, ensuring that airtime services do not commence until explicitly requested by the user.

4.2 Transponders with Satellite Capabilities

The Contractor shall provide a device that utilize the Iridium Satellite Network to provide direct feeds through Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services (EMSS) via the DoD Iridium Gateway. These devices will require Short Burst Data (SBD) device registration through EMSS, for which the user will be responsible. Upon registration, users will request that data be pushed to the Contractor's End Point Server.

4.3 Labels

All NGT-II devices shall contain a label identifying the type of transponder, using the following designations: C for cellular, S for satellite, and H for hybrid. Additionally, each device shall be labeled with a human-readable barcode that utilizes the Transponder’s Device ID (see Attachment 3 NGT-II Transponder Numbering & Labeling Guidelines).

4.3.1 Hero Label

All NGT-II devices delivered to the Government under the NGT-II contract shall be equipped with a warning label that clearly specifies the minimum safe separation distance required between ordnance and the irradiating source, as outlined in Attachment 3 NGT- II Transponder Numbering & Labeling Guidelines. This label is essential to ensure safe handling and use of the devices in environments where ordnance is present.

4.4 Color

The NGT-II devices shall have a subdued color scheme, with acceptable colors being black, olive green, or other generally unobtrusive hues, to minimize visibility and avoid drawing attention to the device.

4.5 Size

The NGT-II devices shall have a maximum of 86 cubic inches. To ensure secure shipment and prevent damage, the device's dimensions shall be limited to accommodate the corrugated ribs on the sides of shipping containers. Specifically, for International Organization for Standardization (ISO) shipping container applications, the device shall fit outside the container between the ribs, with horizontal and vertical dimensions not exceeding 2.5 inches and a depth not exceeding 1.5 inches, including any mounting bracket. This design constraint will help prevent the device from being dislodged or damaged during shipment.

4.6 Mounting

The NGT-II devices shall be designed for easy attachment and detachment to an asset, without requiring any modifications to the asset itself. The devices shall have a minimum of two diagonal mounting holes, allowing for secure attachment using rivets, screws, or tie-wraps. If a mounting bracket is necessary, it shall also be easily attachable and detachable, with a minimum of two holes for secure attachment, and shall hold the NGT device firmly in place under all transport conditions. This design ensures that the NGT device can be quickly and securely installed on an asset, and removed as needed, without causing any damage or requiring any alterations to the asset.

4.7 Power Requirements

The NGT-II devices shall be rechargeable using industry-standard connectors, such as USB-C or Micro-USB, allowing for convenient and universal charging. All transponders shall be rechargeable using either USB-C or Micro-USB. When Alternating Current (AC) adapters are ordered, they shall be compatible with the local country power grid for the specified geographic area of operation.

The NGT-II devices shall allow for easy power on/off functionality directly on the device, without the need for additional hardware or special tools. Additionally, all NGT-II devices shall have a visual method to indicate battery status, such as a percentage display or a color-coded light (e.g., red for not charged and green for charged), to show when the battery is charging and its current state of charge. This ensures that users can easily monitor and manage their device's power levels.

4.8 Transponder Data

4.8.1 Exchange

All NGT-II data shall utilize Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256 encryption or better when be transferred to ensure secure transmission. The Contractor shall develop and execute an ICD with the RF-ITV System at no additional cost to the Government, see attachment 4, NGT-II ICD Example. The ICD will outline the interface requirements, describe the concept of operations, define the data and message structures, and specify the protocols and communication paths for data exchange. The Contractor shall provide the necessary Connection Credentials to the Government/RF-ITV System, enabling the RF-ITV System to establish a connection and retrieve NGT Data Message(s) from the Contractor's End Point Server using a web service. This will facilitate the secure and automated exchange of data between the Contractor's system and the RF-ITV System.

As part of this ICD, the Contractor shall provide a SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) payload in XML (Extensible Markup Language) format, as specified below, to support the NGT-II Contract.

<soapenv:Body> <ngt:sendNGTData> <ngt:NGTTransmission> <int:transmissionID>99992</int:transmissionID> <int:transmissionDTG>2018-11-06T14:41:01</int:transmissionDTG> <ngt:NGT> <ngt:NGTMessage> <ngt:ReceiptDateTime>2018-11-06T14:29:04Z</ngt:ReceiptDateTime> <ngt:EventDateTime>2018-11-06T14:29:04Z</ngt:EventDateTime> <ngt:DeviceInfo> <ngt:DeviceID>86506702459616</ngt:DeviceID> <ngt:Manufacturer>TEMPLATE</ngt:Manufacturer> <ngt:BatteryCapacity>72</ngt:BatteryCapacity> </ngt:DeviceInfo> <ngt:PositionInfo> <ngt:Latitude>39.383</ngt:Latitude> <ngt:Longitude>-74.493</ngt:Longitude> <ngt:ModeOfTransmission>C</ngt:ModeOfTransmission> </ngt:PositionInfo> </ngt:NGTMessage> </ngt:NGT> </ngt:NGTTransmission> </ngt:sendNGTData> </soapenv:Body>

The following table outlines the minimum required NGT-II data elements and their descriptions.

Notably, all NGT-II devices shall report a default location of 0.0, 0.0 (latitude and longitude) if the transponder loses its GPS signal or is unable to obtain a GPS "fix". In such cases, the device shall provide a "0.0" read instead of relying on a last known GPS fix location, ensuring that the system can handle situations where GPS data is unavailable.

Element Element Description ReceiptDateTime This is the timestamp when the Contractor's Server received the device's location report.

EventDateTime This is the timestamp when the device captured the GPS location.

DeviceID This is the unique 14-digit identifier assigned by the Government to identify the

NGT-II device.

Manufacturer This is identifying the device’s manufacturer, which must match a value in the RF-

ITV system's reference table to be recognized; otherwise, it will be displayed as "Unknown".

BatteryCapacity This is a numeric value (0-100) representing the device's remaining battery life as a percentage.

Latitude This is the Decimal Latitude; the latitude of a point on the Earth's surface, expressed as a decimal number, ranging from -90.000 (South Pole) to 0.000 (Equator) to 90.000 (North Pole).

Longitude This is the Decimal Longitude; the longitude of a point on the Earth's surface, expressed as a decimal number, ranging from -180.000 (West) to 0.000 (Prime Meridian) to 180.000 (East).

ModeOfTransmission This single character ('S' or 'C') indicates whether a device's position was transmitted via Satellite (S) or Cellular (C) network

Contractors are required to continue providing NGT-II data services for already fielded transponders, as long as the necessary data service plans are in place, even after the contract award.

4.8.2 Data Rights

All data created, collected, or generated by the Contractor in the performance of this contract shall be considered the property of the Government. The Government retains all rights, title, and interest in and to such data, including but not limited to, the right to use, modify, reproduce, release, and distribute the data. The Contractor shall not assert any claim of copyright, patent, or other intellectual property rights in such data, and shall not use such data for any purpose other than the performance of this contract. The Government shall have the right to use, disclose, and distribute the data as it sees fit, without restriction or limitation, and the Contractor shall not impose any restrictions or limitations on the Government's use of the data. The Contractor shall also ensure that all subcontractors and vendors used in the performance of this contract are aware of and comply with these data rights provisions.

4.8.3 Reporting

All NGT-II devices shall report data at regular intervals, with a default setting of every 2 hours while in motion and every 4 hours while at rest, and shall be capable of operating for at least 120 days on a single charge. The reporting periods shall be adjustable by the end user. Additionally, all NGT-II devices shall have a sleep/suspend mode, which allows the transponder to cease transmitting data for a specified amount of time. The Contractor shall enable adjustments to reporting times and sleep/suspend mode through their Service Desk and/or an interface with the RF-ITV Server, providing a flexible and convenient way for users to manage device settings.

4.9 Equipment Delivery

The Contractor shall deliver all ordered items to the designated destination within 30 days of the order date. Additionally, the Contractor shall offer Expedited Delivery options for both CONUS (Continental United States) and OCONUS (Outside Continental United States) locations, which shall be provided when specifically requested by the end user in the order.

5. Program Support The requirements outlined in this section are to be included in the overall contract price and shall not be billed as separate or additional costs.

5.1 Points of Contact(s)

The Contractor shall submit a list of Points of Contact (POCs) to the COR within 10 workdays of the contract award date, including names, phone numbers, email addresses, and areas of responsibility for the NGT contract. The Contractor shall also notify the COR of any changes to POC information within 5 workdays of replacing a POC.

5.2 Program Management

The Contractor shall appoint a Contractor Program Manager (CPM) for the NGT-II contract, who will serve as the primary POC for the Government and be responsible for managing all aspects of the contract. The CPM shall be available virtually at no additional cost to the Government and shall address programmatic issues, facilitate information exchange, and coordinate management efforts.

The CPM’s responsibilities shall include and are not limited to:

• Managing all orders and serving as the authorized point of contact for the

Government

• Formulating and enforcing work standards, assigning schedules, and reviewing work discrepancies

• Communicating policies, purposes, and goals to assigned personnel

• Providing timely responses to program issues and problems (within 2 workdays)

• Providing prompt responses to questions or problems associated with NGT-II

Data Services (within 1 workday)

• Coordinating shipments and deliveries

• Submitting monthly sales and status reports

• Maintaining accurate records, including warranty and airtime availability

• Conducting project progress reviews

• Providing semi-annual equipment and service reports

• Reporting Enterprise Contractor Manpower Reporting Application (eCMRA) information for Army requirements

The Program Manager shall ensure that all program management activities and services are performed in accordance with the contract requirements.

5.3 User Guide

The Contractor shall create a User Guide (UG) to help Government personnel, and it shall be delivered COR within 30 calendar days of contract award. The UG shall be made available on the Contractor's website, as specified in Attachment #1 NGT-II Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) A002. The guide shall include:

• Ordering procedures with necessary information for users to order NGT products and Technical Engineering Services (TES)

• Contact information, such as POCs, phone numbers, Service Desk details, and addresses

• A Price Matrix that lists the CLIN/SLIN prices, which shall be updated within 5 days of any additions or deletions to the contract.

5.4 24/7 Service Desk

The Contractor shall provide Technical Assistance through a Service Desk, offering support for:

• Troubleshooting and correcting equipment problems, including firmware updates and equipment issues

• Adjusting NGT-II device reporting data communication

• Processing warranty service issues, such as assigning RMA numbers

• Activating and de-activating transponders

• Providing status updates on data plan expiration

• Supporting airtime renewal

The Service Desk shall be available 24/7, with toll-free telephonic support in both

CONUS and OCONUS. The Service Desk shall respond to user issues within 4 hours, 95% of the time. Contractor personnel staffing the Service Desk shall be fluent in English, possess sufficient expertise to recommend troubleshooting procedures, and maintain records of user calls, including failed items, POC, location, date, problem, and resolution. These records shall be included in the Semi-Annual Equipment and Services Report (CDRL A009).

The Service Desk shall also accept and process user requests for purchasing additional airtime, acting on them within 24 hours of receipt. Additionally, the Service Desk shall be able to provide information on available airtime remaining on a particular transponder.

The Contractor may utilize an online knowledge base and online RMA input functionality on their website to support the Service Desk staff in meeting the workload.

5.5 Website

The Contractor shall establish and maintain a worldwide website for Government users no later than 60 calendar days after the contract award date, as per CDRL A0010. The Army’s CHESS web site shall be hyperlinked to the Contractor’s Website. The contractor’s website shall be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and shall remain accessible until the later of either the expiration of the last active order or the end date of the airtime service plan, ensuring continuous access to information and support for Government users. The web site shall not be password protected, and shall be accessible from a .mil or .gov web domain. At a minimum, the web site shall include the following:

• Products o Methods to track the status of orders using the Government’s order number;

o Ability to determine available airtime remaining on a particular transponder;

o List of products that fully comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and

Section 255 of the Communications Act, as set forth at 36 Code of Federal Regulations Part 1194.

• Warranty Support o Tracking status using the RMA number;

o The POC, telephone number, email address and mailing address for each Return Center;

o Failed equipment tracking and status;

• Support Desk o Technical troubleshooting support;

o The POC, telephone number, email address o Failed equipment tracking and status;

• Documentation o User Guide;

o Reference and User Manuals (i.e., Commercial Manuals, Technical Manuals, Software Manuals);

o Recent related news items from the Contractor (for example, notifications of the web site being down for maintenance, etc.);

5.6 Warranty

The Contractor shall provide a three-year warranty and a two-year extended warranty for all equipment supplied under this contract, commencing from the date of product acceptance by the user. This comprehensive warranty will cover all parts, labor, and transportation costs associated with the repair or replacement of NGT-II equipment.

In the event of equipment failure, the Contractor shall be responsible for repairing or replacing the faulty NGT-II equipment in accordance with the procedures outlined in CDRL A011, Warranty Support Procedures. The cost of the three-year warranty will be included in the purchase price of the equipment and the two-year extended warranty will be a separate SLIN to be ordered when the NGT-II device is procured.

If equipment requires repair or replacement due to apparent user abuse, negligence, or missing significant components, the Contractor must promptly notify the Contracting Officer (KO) and the Order POC responsible for the order. This notification will ensure that any issues related to user misuse or neglect are addressed in a timely and transparent manner.

5.7 Risk Management

The Contractor shall proactively identify, assess, manage, and mitigate project risks throughout the contract period, as outlined in CDRL A007. The primary goal of this risk management process is to minimize program uncertainties and classify risks based on their likelihood of occurrence and potential impact.

In accordance with the approved Management Plan (CDRL A003), the Contractor shall continually monitor and identify potential risks or actions that could affect the achievement of program objectives. These program risks may include, but are not limited to performance (technical and operational), technical standards, and Logistics readiness

The Contractor shall prioritize these risks and track the progress of risk reduction or mitigation efforts. The status of risk management activities shall be reported during regular Program Progress Reviews (PPRs) (CDRL A003), ensuring transparency and collaboration with the Government in managing and mitigating potential risks.

6. Technical Engineering Services (TES) The Contractor will provide comprehensive Technical Engineering Services (TES) as outlined in each task order, encompassing a range of activities including problem-solving, customized training, communications, integration with other Government systems, and equipment and systems engineering services. Task orders under TES will be firm-fixed priced, ensuring predictable and transparent costs. To ensure seamless delivery, the Contractor will identify and address technical dependencies, and notify the Government of any additional requirements, including the definition of interfaces with other Government systems.

Throughout the process, the Ordering Contracting Office will maintain the authority to review and validate the services provided, reserving the right to reject or request corrections to any deliverables that fail to meet the specified TES requirements. This rigorous quality control process guarantees that all delivered services adhere to the highest standards and specifications, meeting the Government's needs and expectations.

6.1 Labor Categories

The Government has established specific definitions for the different levels of labor categories, including Junior, Journeyman, and Senior levels. The Junior level labor categories require a minimum of one year of experience and a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, or at least five years of experience with no degree. In contrast, Journeyman level labor categories require more than three years of experience and a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, or more than seven years of experience with no degree. The Senior level labor categories have the most stringent requirements, necessitating more than ten years of experience and a Master of Arts or Master of Science degree, or twelve years of experience with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree, or sixteen years of experience with no degree.

6.1.1 Project Manager Senior

The Project Manager will assume primary responsibility for overseeing all Task Order (TO) projects, ensuring their successful management, performance, and completion in accordance with the specific requirements and objectives outlined in each individual TO. As the primary point of contact, the Project Manager will be accountable for establishing and enforcing work standards, developing and assigning schedules, and conducting regular reviews of work performed to ensure that all TOs are executed to the highest standards. By providing strong leadership and guidance, the Project Manager will play a critical role in driving project success, ensuring timely completion, and delivering high-quality results that meet the Government's needs and expectations.

6.1.2 Systems Engineer Journeyman

The Systems Engineer will be a key member of the development team, driving innovative solutions for high-impact projects. They will conduct research and analysis, evaluating potential solutions and identifying effective approaches. The Systems Engineer will plan, develop, and manage holistic systems solutions, applying tailored systems engineering techniques and processes to achieve project objectives. They will analyze requirements and system performance, providing expert guidance on cost-benefit and risk-opportunity tradeoffs, and ensuring that all project aspects are integrated to deliver a comprehensive solution that meets stakeholder needs and achieves project goals.

6.1.3 Software Engineer Journeyman

The Software Engineer will be an integral part of a dynamic development team, collaborating to design and implement innovative solutions for high-impact projects. In this role, they will provide expert analysis and insight into the design, development, and implementation of complex software systems, encompassing a wide range of applications, including application software, utility software, development software, and diagnostic software.

With a strong technical foundation and comprehensive skill set, the Software Engineer will be capable of contributing to all phases of the software development lifecycle, from initial design and development to documentation and implementation. Effective communication will be critical to success, as the Software Engineer will be responsible for clearly articulating technical risks, ideas, issues, and project status to the Program Project Manager, ensuring seamless collaboration and informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

6.1.4 Information Systems Training Manager Journeyman

The Information Systems Training Manager will be responsible for designing, scheduling, delivering, and tracking technical training programs. They will develop and implement standardized training and education modules, ensuring consistency in the delivery of technical training across the organization. To support the training program, the Training Manager will establish a train-the-trainer program, qualifying area trainers to deliver content and ensuring they are equipped to provide high-quality training. Additionally, they will partner with functional areas to develop training materials, knowledge assessments, and standard operating procedures (SOPs), and will coordinate knowledge assessments to ensure that training is effective and impactful.

6.2 TES Request for Proposal

Upon receipt of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for TES, the Contractor shall submit a price proposal or 'No-bid' response within 21 calendar days, unless an extension is agreed upon by the ordering KO. The proposal shall include sufficient detail to enable the Government to determine its acceptability, and shall comprise, at a minimum: a brief description of the technical approach, demonstrating the Contractor's understanding of the task(s); a proposed timeline schedule; and proposed labor categories from the master SLIN listing, along with the number of hours for each category, to facilitate a thorough evaluation of the proposal.

6.3 TES Task Order Award

The Government shall negotiate a total firm-fixed price (FFP) for the TES effort, which shall include all labor required to complete the effort, categorized according to the labor categories listed in the contract.

This is the start of the file's text. The full file is on GovTribe.

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .