DHS USCG - High Energy Laser Technologies for Maritime Applic - MRAS

The United States Coast Guard (USCG), in collaboration with the General Services Administration (GSA), is conducting market research to explore the availability and technical readiness of high energy laser (HEL) technologies for maritime applications. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to enhance the capabilities of its fleet through advanced directed energy systems. The USCG is particularly interested in identifying systems that can effectively incapacitate targets of interest within maritime environments, which include fixed sites like piers, as well as on-the-move platforms such as cutters and small boats.

The focus of this Request for Information (RFI) is on directed energy technologies that utilize high energy lasers or comparable laser technology. These systems should be capable of addressing unique challenges presented by maritime conditions, such as shock, vibration, sea spray, and airborne particulates like smoke and fuel exhaust. The primary targets for these technologies are uncrewed systems, including both aerial and surface vessels. Respondents are asked to provide detailed information about their solutions, including physical dimensions, weight, power and cooling requirements, cost estimates for acquisition and installation, wavelength specifications, output power levels, area of effect coverage, range capabilities, software load details including target profiles and targeting methods.

This RFI serves as an exploratory measure under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 15.201 guidelines to engage with industry experts before formal proposal processes begin. The USCG aims to gather insights into current technological advancements in directed energy systems that could potentially augment existing fleet operations by neutralizing adversarial threats efficiently. As part of this market research effort, respondents are encouraged to specify the Technical Readiness Level (TRL) of their proposed technologies according to standards set forth in the U.S. Government Accountability Office's Technology Readiness Assessment Guide.

It is important to note that this RFI does not constitute a solicitation or a commitment by the US government to award a contract based on responses received. The information gathered will solely be used for planning purposes and will help shape future procurement strategies related to high energy laser technologies within maritime contexts. Proprietary information submitted will be handled with care; however, all submissions become property of the U.S. government upon receipt.