RFI for X-Band Phased Array Radar

Battelle, on behalf of the Department of Energy, is issuing a Request for Information on a portable X-band phased array radar for the ARM user facility with responses due by September 18, 2026; no set-aside is anticipated, and this RFI will inform a subsequent Request for Proposals rather than result in direct procurement.

The radar must support storm tracking and uncrewed aerial system operations with easy redeployability and setup time of one day or less. Core specifications include X-band wavelength capability, 360-degree azimuth pedestal rotation at 5 rpm, electronic scans of 45 degrees horizontal and 15 degrees vertical, minimum sensitivity approximately 25 dBZ at 30 km range, operation in wind speeds up to approximately 50 mph, and ambient temperature operation from minus 50 degrees Celsius to 50 degrees Celsius. The system must measure reflected power and Doppler velocity, include an internal calibration source, and execute standard weather scans, meteorological target tracking, and aircraft detection with Beyond Visual Line of Sight drone capability.

Battelle seeks vendor information on available design options meeting baseline requirements, cost differentials between analog and digital beamforming, additional costs for dual-polarization implementation, sensitivity ranges and associated costs, azimuthal speed and acceleration capabilities with cost implications, available software functionality for meteorological observation and UAS tracking, vendor experience with related systems, and expected delivery timelines. Dual polarization and digital beamforming are identified as desirable but non-committed design elements.

RFI responses must include a cover letter, executive summary, company information, relevant experience, identified clarifications or assumptions, and manufacturing capability demonstration. Inquiries should be directed to Sandra Garcia, Contract Specialist, at sandra.garcia@pnnl.gov or 509-375-2466.