Request for Information (RFI) USNIC SAR Data

Amendment 8/28/2026: This amendment is to update the response date in the RFI attachment to match the response date in the posting. The correct response date for this RFI is 9/25/2026 at 2:00PM PST. This RFI notice is issued solely for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. It is not a request for quotes nor does it obligate the government in any way.

The Government will not reimburse the respondents for any costs associated with the information submitted in response to this request. Additionally, this RFI notice does not guarantee that the government will issue a request for quotes or award a contract for supplies or services.

The National Weather Service (NWS), Ocean Prediction Center (OPC), U.S. National Ice Center (USNIC) has a need for georeferenced GeoTIFFs of global coverage in accessible electronic format 24/7/365 and with the capability of near-real-time latency. SAR imagery’s benefits remain helpful to the persistence of USNIC’s operational programs of earth surface observation in the poor weather or illumination conditions of the polar latitudes.

Near-real-time latency is considered to be the capability of delivering images deemed to be time critical to USNIC no more than approximately four (4) hours from time of satellite acquisition. Delivery beyond this period prohibits the USNIC from fulfilling an operational requirement to produce timely products and respond to tactical needs. **See attached documents for information being requested and further details**