Next Generation One-Person Life Raft Modernization

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) Human Systems Division is conducting a sources sought market assessment for next-generation one-person life raft modernization, with responses due by October 22, 2026. This is a pre-solicitation notice only and does not constitute a formal solicitation or binding commitment; the Air Force will not reimburse response costs, and all submissions become Government property.

The Air Force seeks to replace the 46-year-old legacy LRU-16/P life raft with a modernized solution offering increased space and weight margins for ejection seat survival kits while maintaining reliable flotation for one isolated person for up to 14 days. The initial procurement is estimated at approximately 2,000 production units plus approximately 30 ruggedized training rafts. Key performance requirements include packed volume reduction of 35 percent minimum (threshold) or 50 percent optimal, accommodation of personnel from the 5th female percentile (60.04" stature) to 95th male percentile (73.62" stature) with legs fully extended in seated position, compatibility with FLU-2/P or FLU-6/P automatic inflators, inflatable floor with R-value of at least 4.5 (threshold) or 8 (objective), integrated SAR/IR reflector attachment points, rainwater collection capacity of at least 1.0 liter per hour, internal/self-bailing capability, deployable 50-foot sea anchor with adjustable depth stops, internal lighting, spray shield protection, dual baffled vents, internal storage pockets totaling at least 650 cubic inches, and withstanding wave heights of 10 feet (threshold) or 15 feet (objective). Training rafts must incorporate heavy-duty 840D/1000D TPU material rated for 1,000+ abrasion cycles and withstand 250 inflation/deflation/boarding cycles with boarding points rated to 300-pound pull force. Quick deflation within 30 seconds (threshold) or 15 seconds (objective) and oral inflation valves for all inflatable portions are mandatory. Responses must include rough order of magnitude cost estimates for both production and test units, anticipated production capacity, technical manuals cost estimates, and willingness to provide technical data package and rights. Small businesses are encouraged to respond and must demonstrate ability to perform at least 50 percent of effort if pursuing prime contractor status.