NOAA/OMAO/PAE - C-130J Hercules Vertically Scanning Doppler Radar Transmitter System

NOAA issued a Notice of Intent to Negotiate a Sole-Source Contract on August 12, 2026, for the design and production of up to 21 Solid State Power Amplifiers (transmitters) supporting a Vertically Scanning Doppler Radar system on NOAA's C-130J aircraft fleet; the agency intends to award sole-source to Stellant Systems, Inc., and capability statements are due by 10 AM Eastern Time on August 26, 2026.

The requirement is for transmitters modified from Stellant Systems' G550 design to meet specialized technical specifications: environmental hardening for outer wing station 330 installation, liquid cooling capability, fixed 20-degree antenna accommodation, 12 kilowatt peak transmit power output (approximately 50 percent greater than current systems), and remote operation and monitoring capabilities. Each aircraft will contain four transmitters (two per radar pod), with each serving as a critical subcomponent that transforms electrical power into high-power pulsed radar signals capable of transmitting and receiving through at least 50 kilometers of high-reflectivity storms.

Stellant Systems qualifies as the sole source due to proprietary ownership of all specifications, drawings, and schematics combined with the unique and highly specialized technical requirements. The anticipated award value is up to $9 million under 41 U.S.C. 1901 using simplified procedures per FAR 12.201-1 and 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1). NAICS code 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing) applies, with a size standard of 1,250 employees. The notice does not constitute a solicitation and does not restrict the Government's ultimate acquisition approach. Interested parties may submit capability statements to Jennifer Peters at Jennifer.peters@noaa.gov.