Resilient Precision Time Pilot

The Department of Homeland Security’s Directorate of Science and Technology, Office of Science and Engineering, is seeking industry input through a Request for Information (RFI) titled Resilient Precision Time Pilot to identify capabilities for deploying a GPS-independent, long-haul fiber-based precise time distribution network that is reproducible, scalable, and resilient to Positioning, Navigation, and Timing threats while remaining traceable to UTC(NIST). The initiative aims to support critical infrastructure sectors such as power grids and telecommunications by establishing a master timing node architecture with Primary and Secondary nodes capable of maintaining time accuracy within 100 nanoseconds and sustaining holdover for 30 days (Primary) or up to 5 days (Secondary), with last-mile delivery achieving at least 1 microsecond accuracy—targeting 500 nanoseconds or better—for end-user locations. Performance must align with DHS Resilient PNT Reference Architecture, NIST PNT Profiles, and Section 508 accessibility standards, ensuring all ICT deliverables are usable by individuals with disabilities. Responses are due by May 1, 2026, and must not exceed ten pages excluding the cover letter, submitted electronically in PDF or Word format, with files over 50 MB split across multiple emails. Offerors must provide their Unique Entity ID, CAGE code, and disclose small business status and socioeconomic designations, including any teaming arrangements to meet full requirements. The anticipated 24-month performance period includes phased deliverables ranging from project plans and architecture assessments to a final pilot demonstration and transition package, with monthly status reports required throughout. All deliverables must be submitted to the DHS S&T Contracting Officer’s Representative, and contractor-acquired property exceeding $5,000 requires written approval and becomes government property. No classified information is involved, but all sensitive data must be safeguarded as For Official Use Only, with prior approval needed for sharing with non-federal personnel via DHS Form 11000-6. Invoicing is managed via email to a DHS-specific address, and no public release of findings is permitted without formal approval. The funding amount and award type remain TBD, with no pricing data available as this is a market research RFI under NAICS code 541330, intended to inform future acquisition strategies rather than initiate immediate contract award.