USAF - Analysis of Alternatives Assessment Study for Technologies - MRAS

On behalf of the United States Air Force (USAF), the General Services Administration (GSA) is conducting market research to evaluate potential solutions for a critical communications network. The primary goal is to develop a secure, resilient, and standards-compliant network capable of hosting, storing, protecting, and transferring classified data up to Top Secret Releasable and Special Access Required levels. This initiative is aimed at supporting secure communications within International Communities of Interest (COI), ensuring effective collaboration among allies, coalitions, and mission partners.

The task involves performing an Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) for various technologies that could fulfill these requirements. The AoA will involve a comprehensive assessment of potential solutions based on documented requirements, network performance metrics, cost implications, and associated risks. This analysis will guide future implementation decisions by identifying the most viable technological options. Additionally, the study will examine existing policies to determine whether they facilitate or hinder the deployment of these solutions.

The networks under consideration are intended to support both Enterprise and Expeditionary requirements. Enterprise networks typically enable strategic-to-operational level communications and are characterized by their global integration and management by U.S. entities. In contrast, Expeditionary networks focus on operational-to-tactical level communications with regional governance by Mission Commanders. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for evaluating potential solutions effectively in this context.

To ensure compliance with applicable regulations and strategies during this project, performers must consider relevant guidance documents such as Executive Order 14028 on cybersecurity improvements, the DoD Zero Trust Strategy, the 2023 DOD Cyber Strategy, among others. These documents provide essential frameworks for aligning the proposed network solutions with national security objectives.