Next Generation Airlift Program (NGAL)- Platform Request for Information

The Department of Defense, through the Air Force Materiel Command, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) under solicitation number FA8688-RFI-26-0002 to gather industry input on concepts and capabilities for the Next Generation Airlift (NGAL) platform, intended to supplement and eventually replace the C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17A Globemaster III aircraft. This RFI is strictly for planning and information-gathering purposes and does not constitute a solicitation for proposals or a commitment to issue a future RFP. Respondents must submit a white paper no longer than 30 pages, including graphics, in a Microsoft Word-compatible format by 17 July 2026 at 1700 EDT. The submission must include administrative details such as company name, address, CAGE/DUNS code, point of contact, phone, email, web page, and facility security clearance, and must be sent via encrypted email or DoD SAFE to Lindsey Swain and Stephen Ritter at their official Air Force email addresses. All responses must be unclassified or properly marked CUI, with any proprietary information clearly segregated and labeled. Submission via SAM.gov registration is mandatory for any future contract eligibility, and no set-aside applies to this requirement. The NGAL platform must meet strict technical parameters, including a wingspan under 223 feet, a minimum payload capacity of 160,000 pounds, and an unrefueled range of at least 2,500 nautical miles. The aircraft must be capable of operating from austere or semi-prepared runways and support multiple airdrop types including personnel, CDS, heavy equipment, and JPADS. Design requirements emphasize main deck configurability for passenger, cargo, and aeromedical missions, reduced reliance on ground-based materiel handling equipment, and integration of modern digital engineering practices such as digital twins and Model-Based Systems Engineering. The system must support a federated mission architecture compliant with Open Mission Systems standards and incorporate condition-based maintenance plus (CBM+) features. Security is a core focus, requiring robust defensive systems and capabilities to prevent, mitigate, and recover from cyber attacks. Questions regarding the RFI must be submitted in writing via email; verbal inquiries are not accepted. The government will not reimburse respondents for the cost of preparing submissions, and responses will be used only for planning and market research purposes with no intention of awarding a contract at this stage.