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Next Generation Air-refueling System (NGAS)

Request for Information (RFI)

Introduction

1. The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is pursuing continued development of the next generation of tanker concepts that address the changing strategic environment. The DAF has established the Next Generation Air-refueling System (NGAS) project to advance those efforts. The project team is conducting preliminary analysis and concept development to meet the entrance criteria for an Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) which is currently projected to begin in October 2023. The team is seeking information on innovative industry solutions that might fulfill the most stressing and complex air refueling mission requirements of the future fight.

2. The scope of this solution set includes the following:

• Anticipated initial operational capability for NGAS is 2040.


• NGAS will be the third of three increments to the Air Force tanker recapitalization plan, following increment 1 (represented by the KC-46 program) and increment 2 (known as KC-Y or “bridge tanker”).


• NGAS shall be required to address employment in contested scenarios


• The DAF is interested in innovative solutions in all size and performance classes that might address the stressing mission requirements; airspeeds should be compatible with modern receivers.

3. THIS IS A REQUEST FOR INFORMATION ONLY to understand innovative industry solutions to accomplish the NGAS mission. This RFI is issued solely for information and planning purposes. It does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP) or a promise to issue an RFP in the future. This RFI does not commit the U.S. Government to contract for any supply or service. Responders are advised the U.S. Government will not pay for any information or administrative costs incurred in response to this RFI. All costs associated with responding to this RFI will be solely at the respondent party’s expense. Not responding to this RFI does not preclude participation in any future RFP, if issued. The U.S. Government has made no final solicitation decision regarding eventual procurement or by what means such a solicitation, if any, would be handled. The information provided in this RFI is subject to change and is not binding upon the U.S. Government. The U.S. Government has not made a commitment to procure any of the items discussed, and release of this RFI should not be construed as such a commitment or as authorization to incur costs for which reimbursement would be required or sought. All submissions become U.S. Government property and will not be returned.

4. See attached for full RFI and Q&A.