LARS Hardware Refresh

The U.S. Air Force requires a complete hardware refresh for the Lightweight Airborne Recovery System (LARS), previously known as Personnel Locator System (PLS) v12 AN/ARS‑6, installed on HC‑130J aircraft. The refresh must retain existing capabilities (TAC, TAG, CSEL/NGSR) and provide a Form‑Fit‑Function (FFF) version that sustains at least ten years of use. The effort includes non‑recurring engineering (NRE) for redesign, developmental and operational testing, and production of up to five test articles; fielding will be handled under a separate contract. The solicitation will be issued as a sole‑source award to Cubic Defense Application, Inc., with an anticipated three‑year performance period (one base year plus two options). • redesign and produce a refreshed LARS hardware configuration that meets current capability and 10‑year sustainability requirements • conduct design reviews, developmental testing, and operational testing, providing up to five test articles for validation • deliver the hardware under a three‑year contract (base year + two optional years) as a sole‑source award to Cubic Defense Application, Inc.