Proximate Chemical Agent Detector Non-Trace (PCAD-NT) 2026

Background
The Joint Project Manager for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Integrated Early Warning (JPM CBRN IEW) is responsible for the development, production, and fielding of CBRN detection and identification systems.

This RFI aims to identify potential industry sources capable of manufacturing a standoff non-contact handheld instrument for the Joint Force to identify visible solid and liquid materials at safe distances.

Work Details
The contract involves the procurement of approximately 2,500 Proximate Chemical Agent Detector Non-Trace (PCAD-NT) systems.

The system must provide non-contact presumptive identification of solid and liquid materials, including Chemical Warfare Agents (CWA), Non-Traditional Agents (NTA), Pharmaceutical Based Agents (PBA), Fourth Generation Agents (FGA), Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TIC), Toxic Industrial Materials (TIM), and explosive hazards such as Homemade Explosives (HME).

Key specifications include:
1. Standoff Detection Capability: Non-contact identification at safe distances without physical sampling.
2. Laser & Optical Safety: Active lasers must ensure operator safety and prevent ignition of sensitive materials.
3. Lightweight Design: The system must be compact, portable, and ergonomically balanced for easy operation during extended missions.

Period of Performance
The geographic location(s) the product will be delivered to or performed at

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must have expertise in producing handheld systems and be capable of supporting first article testing, integrated logistics support, software support, and general support for Government test activities.

The solicitation may consider small business set-asides or full and open competition based on responses.

Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail)
This opportunity appears to have a confirmed incumbent based on prior awards to Smiths Detection under W911SR20D0004, valued at $28,660,114 (and related production/support actions including $11,033,227 for adapter production). The prior work includes full rate production and support of the Joint Chemical Agent Detector Solid Liquid Adapter (JCAD SLA), which is closely aligned with the current requirement for a standoff non-contact handheld instrument providing real-time presumptive identification of visible solid and liquid chemical materials. The adapter production and associated testing/support activities appear to be a continuation of the same handheld detection/identification capability within the JPM CBRN IEW/JPEO CBRND mission.