509 OG mdusa USB-3

The Department of the Air Force Global Strike Command has issued a sources sought notice for market research purposes to identify potential vendors capable of providing six USB 3.1 Gen 1 Docking Stations for Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. The docking stations must be compatible with SAFRAN RSM500-S, DATaRec 4 MDR Rugged Storage Modules and enable data transfer to and from Data at Rest Protected storage modules via USB to DoD Standard Desktop Configuration compliant Windows 11 workstations. The procurement falls under NAICS Code 334118 with technical specifications requiring precise connection types, 5 Gbit/s data transfer capabilities, LED indicators, maximum 18W power consumption, and environmental operating ranges from -20°C to +70°C with specific electromagnetic compatibility standards. The Air Force seeks to determine whether this requirement can be satisfied through small business set-aside opportunities and is particularly interested in various small business categories including Small Disadvantaged Businesses, 8(a) businesses, and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. Interested vendors must respond by August 28, 2025, by selecting the "Add me to interested vendors" button, with questions directed to specified Air Force contracting personnel.

This sources sought notice does not indicate any specific set-aside designation at this time, as the Air Force is conducting market research to determine the appropriate procurement approach and increase competition. No current contractors or incumbents are identified in the documentation, suggesting this may be a new requirement or the Air Force is exploring alternative sources. The procurement involves exactly six docking stations with highly specialized technical requirements for compatibility with SAFRAN storage modules and rugged environmental conditions suitable for forward operating locations. No budget ranges or award values are disclosed in the market research documentation, which is typical for sources sought notices that precede formal solicitations. The timeline indicates responses are due within one week of posting, reflecting the preliminary nature of this market research phase before any formal procurement action.