A -- Advanced Aircraft Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Threat Warning, Identification, Countermeasures and Targeting

The Electro-Optical Sensor Technology Division of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is pursuing the development of technology supporting the concept of Proactive Infrared Countermeasures (PIRCM) for aircraft self protection. This concept adds active detection of seeker and sensor threats to the classic reactive laser based IRCM capability to provide a layered, multifaceted approach. The desired PIRCM system should locate and countermeasure electro-optical (EO) and infrared (IR) sensors that are tracking our aircraft. It should also proactively deny the launch of missiles via countermeasure of the missile seeker in the tube or on the rail. Lastly, the PIRCM system should provide target handoff information of EO/IR seekers and sensors at ranges compatible with existing combat missions. The PIRCM system should support the technical goals and projected cost/sustainability requirements of a near-term capability. The PIRCM system should support the insertion of advanced technologies into a long-term IRCM system development program. The government will host a meeting for potential PIRCM system developers at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, on 12 Jul 06 at which time AFRL/SNJW will provide additional technical and program information. Feedback from system developers will be used to assess the feasibility of proceeding with a future procurement activity. The proposed PIRCM system must feature a lightweight modular design that will be flight demonstrated in a pod. The PIRCM system should have the capability to be integrated with different types of aircraft. The envisioned PIRCM system should increase the survivability of multiple fixed-wing and/or rotorcraft aircraft operating at low altitudes in both day and night conditions. Contractors who are interested in this RFI should be prepared to write a white paper describing their PIRCM concept and addressing system-level requirements provided at the informational meeting. The white paper should be submitted to SNJW within thirty days following the informational meeting with the government. Respondents should provide sufficient detail to substantiate their ability to meet anticipated cost, schedule and performance objectives. AFRL is interested in a near-term flight demonstration of a system in near final form, namely Technology Readiness Level 7, within five years. Attendees should be experienced in the design, development, fabrication, test and integration of complex infrared optical systems onto aircraft. It is the desire of AFRL to consider technologies that offer the required capabilities with minimal impact to the integration and installation of the equipment in multi-role combat aircraft and rotorcraft. Interest in an advantageous product will be followed by subsequent inquiries to the contributor. This announcement is a request for information and no contract will be awarded pursuant to this announcement. There is no bid package or solicitation document associated with this announcement. The requested information is for planning purposes and does not constitute a commitment, implied or otherwise, that a procurement will be issued. AFRL and the Air Force will utilize the information for technical and acquisition planning, especially near-to-mid term laboratory investment planning. It is recognized that any cost information provided by the contractor is a preliminary estimate for planning purposes; the contractor will not be bound to these estimates. Subsequent acquisitions may follow in the ways that best meet Air Force needs. The government invites comments related to possible purchase or acquisition strategies. Questions concerning this announcement should be referred to the Air Force Technical POC. An informational meeting will be held at AFRL/SNZ, Eagle Conference Room, Building 620, Area B, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH on 12 Jul 06, 0830 1200. The government will make planning information available and respond to technical questions during the meeting or by appointment in the afternoon. AFRL/SNJW's on-site contractor will support this meeting and follow-on activities. Those system developers who are interested in this RFI must submit a visit request and security clearance to the Security POC identified below. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION: This announcement is UNCLASSIFIED. However, the presentation and discussion at the informational meeting will be CLASSIFIED up to the SECRET level. Participation by foreign nationals may be restricted and will be determined on a case by case basis. It is not the intent of the Air Force or AFRL to reimburse providers for the cost of submitting information in response to this RFI. Technical POC info: Mr. John F. Carr, AFRL/SNJW, 2241 Avionics Circle, Room 1BE67, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7304, email: john.carr@wpafb.af.mil, voice: (937) 255-4174 ext. 4019. Security POC info: Ms. Deborah Ables, AFRL/SNJW, voice (937) 255 4174 ext. 4005, fax (937) 255 1993. Contract POC info: William O. Beeman, Det 1 AFRL/PKDB, 2310 8th Street Building 167, Wright Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7801, e-mail: william.beeman@wpafb.af.mil, voice: (937) 255-4149, fax: (937) 255-8100.