RFI for Robust Communications (RoCo) for Sub-Sonic Targets

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is seeking industry's capability to provide a robust, high-bandwidth, and long-range communications solution for its Subsonic Aerial Targets (SSAT) fleet. The current SSAT communication architectures have limitations that hinder the ability to simulate complex, long-range threats and collect comprehensive data. The Government is considering awarding one or more Other Transaction Agreements (OTA) for Robust Communications (RoCo) for Sub-Sonic Targets. Key aspects of the project include: • Range: The current system has a nominal maximum range of approximately 200 nautical miles, which is insufficient for blue-water presentations. • Data Rate: The current maximum bitrate restricts telemetry data, prevents the transmission of high-resolution video or payload data, and limits post-flight forensic analysis. • Resiliency: The existing architecture is susceptible to signal loss due to airframe masking and single points of failure. • Connectivity: The current datalink format is not compatible with operational platforms, precluding direct data exchange and collaborative control.