Bid guide
How to bid on C-130/L-382 BLOS Satcom & GPS Hatch Systems for DEPT of Defense
What the Air Force is buying and why it matters
The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force TENCAP, is looking for information on existing high-bandwidth 45 cm Ku/Ka-band satellite communication systems and GPS hatch assemblies. These systems are for C-130 and L-382 aircraft and must use a non-permanent roll-on/roll-off hatch installation.
The Air Force needs these systems to provide network connectivity for C-130 variants, supporting future DAF Battle Network integration and communications with various mission partners. This is a market research effort to identify vendors with TRL 9 prototypes ready for small-quantity production within the next year.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on August 03, 2026. The deadline for responses is August 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. At the deadline, the Air Force will stop accepting submissions for this market research.
Since this is an RFI, it is for information gathering only. It is not a request for proposals and will not result in an award. However, the information gathered will help the Air Force shape future procurement strategies.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for technology firms that have already designed, developed, and delivered high-bandwidth Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) 45cm Ku/Ka-Band Satellite Communication (SATCOM) systems and associated GPS Hatch assemblies.
Vendors should have systems with existing Department of War (DoW) certified airworthiness, or systems currently in the process of certification. The equipment must be compatible with software-defined radios for modem functions and be ready for small-quantity production within the next year, indicating a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 9.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the full details and respond to this opportunity, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Click the designated link to open the opportunity.
If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required for every bid.
Practical tips for a competitive response
When preparing your response to this RFI, clearly demonstrate that your system meets all specified requirements. Emphasize the non-permanent roll-on/roll-off hatch installation, the 45 cm Ku/Ka-band capability, and compatibility with software-defined radios.
Highlight your system's airworthiness status, whether certified or in process, and provide evidence of recently delivered TRL 9 prototypes. Clearly state your capability for small-quantity production within the next year. Focus on providing concrete details and evidence for each requirement.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.