How to bid on ASU E3 Night Vision Goggles for the US Forest Service

What the agency is buying

The U.S. Forest Service, part of the Department of Agriculture, intends to purchase four Element 3 (E3) Lightweight Aviation Night Vision Goggles, part number E31001W-1T. These goggles must be certified to FAA TSO-C164a.

The agency requires goggles that preserve the wearer's unaided peripheral field of view for safety, as LED obstruction lighting and aircraft position lighting are not visible through the goggle's filters. The goggles must also be compatible with existing battery packs and mounts to allow in-flight exchanges. The Forest Service has identified the E3 as the only goggle meeting these specific requirements.

Key dates and deadlines

This notice was published on August 03, 2026. The deadline for submitting a capability statement is August 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM Mountain Time. This is not a request for competitive quotes, but rather an opportunity for other sources to demonstrate their ability to meet the government's needs.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is for firms that can supply Element 3 Lightweight Aviation Night Vision Goggles, part number E31001W-1T, or an equivalent product that meets the specific safety and compatibility requirements outlined by the Forest Service. This includes preserving peripheral vision and compatibility with existing battery packs and mounts. The agency has identified Aviation Specialties Unlimited, Inc. as the sole source, but will consider other sources that can meet the minimum needs.

How to respond

To respond, you must submit a written capability statement. This statement should detail how your firm can meet the government's minimum needs as described in the notice. Send your capability statement to Westley Bisson, Contracting Officer, at [email protected].

To view the original source of this opportunity, click the "View original source" link. If you land on the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view any associated documents.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even though this is a sole-source notice, a strong capability statement can still be valuable. Clearly and concisely address each specific requirement mentioned by the Forest Service, especially the need to preserve peripheral vision and compatibility with existing equipment. Provide evidence or technical specifications to support your claims.

Ensure your statement is well-organized and easy to read. Focus on demonstrating a clear understanding of the agency's needs and how your product or service directly addresses them. Submit your statement well before the August 18, 2026, 4:00 PM Mountain Time deadline.