A -- Multi-Stage Supersonic Aerial Target Development Program

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) plans to issue a competitive solicitation for a multi-stage supersonic aerial target development program intended to fulfill the U.S. Navy's urgent need for a cost-effective target system that simulates a multi-stage anti-ship cruise missile threat. The system must feature both a subsonic cruising phase and a supersonic sprint phase, supporting test and evaluation of ship platforms and self-defense systems. Key performance requirements include programmable navigation with terminal maneuvering, a total range exceeding 100 nautical miles, a subsonic cruising range over 90 nautical miles at 50 feet mean sea level, and a sprint speed reaching at least Mach 2.2 at 16 feet mean sea level. The program is anticipated to advance to the System Development and Demonstration phase in fiscal year 2008, with a Request for Proposal scheduled for release in the first quarter of that fiscal year. Prior to solicitation release, the Program Office (PMA-208) will conduct an Industry Day in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2007, with an announcement posted on FedBizOpps by the end of June 2007. This announcement serves as a sources-sought notice rather than a commitment or solicitation, indicating ongoing efforts to identify industry capabilities and foster competition. The contract specialists and contracting officers managing this effort are located at the Naval Air Systems Command office in Patuxent River, Maryland.