Sources Sought – Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)

Background
The U.S. Special Operations Command is conducting market research to identify potential sources with the expertise and capability to develop and deliver a man-portable Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) system. The goal of this contract is to enhance operational capabilities through advanced technology, specifically focusing on side-scan sonar, dynamic tasking, and auto target recognition (ATR) capabilities.

Work Details
The contract involves the development and delivery of a man-portable AUV system with the following specifications:
- Integration of side-scan sonar that meets or exceeds technical specifications.
- ATR capability that utilizes operator input for shape/size recognition.
- Operational depth capability of 1000 ft.
- Programmable operation through an Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) plugin.
- Integration of MPU-5 Radio Frequency (RF) communications for sending sonar images via RF communication through ATAK.
- Swarm behavior capability allowing the AUV to task additional AUVs via acoustic communication for target area searches.
- Training and delivery of 2 to 3 AUVs.

Technical Specifications Summary:
Requirement | Threshold | Objective
--- | --- | ---
Man Portable/Hand Form Factor | Yes | Yes
Deployment Diameter | 6 in | 6 in
Length | 5 ft | 3 ft
Weight (In Air) | 60 lbs. | 30 lbs.
Depth | 300 ft | 1000 ft
Operate in water currents from: | 1 kt | 5 kts
Operational Time (Underwater) | 3 hrs | 10 hrs
Range | 20 nm | 40 nm
Side Scan Sonar - 1MHz CHIRP Frequency - 2000m Depth Rating | Yes | Yes
Real-time Auto Target Detection (shape/size) | Yes | Yes
Acoustic Communications | Yes | Yes
Resistant to GPS Spoofing/Jamming & Operate in GPS Denied Environments | Yes | Yes
Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) Plugin | Yes | Yes
Controller/User Interface | Tablet | Phone
SOCOM Modular Payload Compliant & RF Communications with MPU-5 Integration| Yes| Yes