Joanna Crews
The U.S. Marine Corps seeks industry input for the potential acquisition of a man-portable rapid laser-targeting platform that integrates three currently used systems.
The Marine Corps Systems Command considers a two-phased approach to full operational capacity for the Next Generation Handheld Targeting System, the Marines said through a Federal Business Opportunities sources-sought notice posted Wednesday.
NGHTS, previously known as Future Targeting System, is meant to replace the Marines’ existing separate systems for rapid target acquisition, laser designation and laser spot imaging.
The new targeting technology is intended to feature a single, lightweight and compact system designed with the same functions as the current Portable Lightweight Designator Rangefinder, Joint Terminal Attack Controller Laser Target Designator and Thermal Laser Spot Imager.
Responses to the notice will support continued market research under Federal Acquisition Regulation part 10 and will be accepted through Feb. 9.
MARCOSYSCOMÂ plans to hold an industry day from March 13 to 14 to discuss industry feedback on the future NGHTSÂ contracting strategy and draft request for proposal in preparation for a solicitation.
The FBO notice indicated the engineering, manufacturing and development RFP phase is tentatively slated for the last quarter of fiscal year 2018, while NGHTSÂ initial operational capability is expected by the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2022.
