Next Generation Airlift Program (NGAL)- Platform Request for Information

The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Lifecycle Management Center is soliciting information to support early-stage requirements development for the Next Generation Airlift (NGAL) program, a strategic airlift aircraft intended to supplement and eventually replace the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17A Globemaster III, with white paper responses due July 17, 2026. This is an RFI for market research purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to procure, issue an RFP, or reimburse response costs.

All proposed aircraft must meet critical design constraints: wingspan strictly less than 223 feet and capability to carry a minimum payload of 160,000 pounds over at least 2,500 nautical miles unrefueled. Performance calculations must baseline to Standard Day conditions with explicitly documented assumptions covering flight profiles, airfield conditions, thrust settings, and payload configurations.

Respondents must submit white papers limited to 30 pages in Microsoft Word format addressing 16 technical questions across two categories: General Aircraft and Airlift Capabilities (dimensions, propulsion, payload-range, cargo capacity, pressurization, ground turnaround time, performance, airdrop capabilities) and Systems, Survivability, Technology, and Logistics (federated mission-systems architecture, maintenance, logistics and supply chain, digital engineering, defensive systems, cyber resilience, Open Mission System compliance, materiel handling equipment mitigation).

Unclassified/Controlled Unclassified Information responses go to Lindsey Swain and Steve Ritter via encrypted email or DoD SAFE. Classified submissions are accepted in a classified annex. All submissions become Government property and will not be returned. Respondents must be registered in SAM.gov and provide company name, address, point of contact, CAGE/DUNS code, phone, email, website, and facility security clearance level. A Q&A was posted to SAM.gov on July 2, 2026. Participation in the RFI does not preclude future RFP participation or require involvement in the subsequent Analysis of Alternatives.