The U.S. Air Force is updating its existing approach to the Next-Generation Ejection Seat (NGES) program to increase competition for some of the five platforms, inviting more industry players to compete for a contract to supply F-16 ejection seats with the potential to conduct competition for other aircraft platforms in the future.
The decision follows analysis of industry information in response to a Sources Sought notice in August 2024, which gathered critical input from industry partners on the NGES program and allowed the program team to gain valuable insights and technical feedback from potential vendors.
In 2020, the Air Force awarded a sole-source contract for the F-15 to Collins Aerospace for the NGES program based on previous market research and assessment of technological maturity. However, with new data, updated market research, and evolving operational demands, the Air Force will issue a revised acquisition strategy for the F-16 and F-22.
"The decision to re-open the competition underscores our commitment to continually assess our strategies to ensure we meet warfighter needs and timelines," said Andrew Hunter, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. "By reassessing market conditions and fostering competition, we ensure industry delivers the best possible solutions for both current and future Air Force requirements."
A new request for proposal will be released to allow additional companies to compete for the NGES contract.
While the introduction of competition within the NGES program will initially focus on the F-16, the decisions following the competition could extend to other platforms, including the F-22 and B-1. The Air Force will continue its current program of record with Collins Aerospace to develop, integrate, and field the F-15 NGES.
Hunter reaffirmed that ongoing work with Collins Aerospace remains vital: "Our priority is to stay flexible and responsive to emerging technologies while keeping existing programs on schedule to meet operational needs."
