KuKa Beyond Line-of-Sight Communication Suite

The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Lifecycle Management Center at Robins Air Force Base is procuring forty-four Ku/Ka Beyond Line-of-Sight Communication Suites for integration into HC-130J aircraft through the Special Operations Forces System Program Office. The procurement includes complete hardware and software components for installation, integration, and operation to provide critical command and control capabilities that the HC-130J platform currently lacks. The systems will enable access to Secret Internet Protocol applications, real-time situational awareness tools including video downlink streaming, tactical chat capabilities, and mission planning systems that are essential for effective Special Operations Forces mission execution. The requirement addresses a significant operational deficiency by providing secure data rates for both classified and unclassified internet protocol capabilities. This pre-solicitation notice was posted on September 12, 2025, with a response deadline of September 27, 2025.

This procurement is structured as a sole source requirement designated to R4 Integration (Cage Code 5XBE4), with no set-aside designation applied to the contract opportunity. The acquisition encompasses forty-four total communication suites broken down into one Trial Kit, one Proof Kit, thirty-seven primary operational systems, and five spare systems to ensure optimal readiness and minimize operational downtime. Small businesses with relevant capabilities are encouraged to contact the prime contractor directly to explore subcontracting opportunities within this procurement. The contract falls under NAICS code 334220 for Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment Manufacturing, and PSC code 5985 for Antennas, Waveguides, and Related Equipment. The urgency of this requirement stems from the HC-130J community's current inability to access vital secure communication tools necessary for mission success and real-time threat mitigation.