For the future Next Generation Air Refueling System (NGAS), the government is seeking information on propulsion system options that enable platform capability to achieve USG objectives. This RFI requests information for the four primary categories of existing propulsion system capability, options for scaling existing propulsion systems, and new propulsion systems. This RFI focuses on these capabilities at discrete intervals defined as near (6 years), mid (10 years), and far (15 years) terms from a program initiation assumed to be 3QFY25. The propulsion thrust range of interest for this RFI is broad due to the state of the Analysis of Alternatives (AoA), but the questions in this RFI are intended to provide focus for responses.

The responses to this RFI will be used to support the USG’s Analysis of Alternatives, operational analysis and to build initial strategies for achieving the desired aircraft characteristics of long range, reduced runway take-off distance, dash speed capability, survivability, power and thermal capacity, and fuel offload capability.