Summary
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) issued a Sources Sought / Request for Information seeking comprehensive Automatic Identification System (AIS), VHF-FM voice, and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) services 24/7 for designated regions of Alaska to augment existing infrastructure and address coverage gaps. Core requirements specify continuous AIS data reception and transmission, shore-to-ship safety messaging and virtual AtoN, extended VHF/DSC coverage, availability targets (96% AIS, 98% VHF/DSC), and rigorous security/compliance including NIST standards and formal IT Security Accreditation. Industry is asked to describe approaches (terrestrial or alternative technologies), network architecture, coverage, maintenance, and how they would meet the performance and security requirements; responses are due July 28, 2026.