Procurement of Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) System

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting market research to identify capable sources for an end-to-end Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) 5G system. This procurement, managed by the NIST Information Technology Laboratory, seeks a comprehensive solution that includes Open Radio Units, Distributed Units, Centralized Units, and all necessary supporting hardware and software. The agency is utilizing this Sources Sought notice to refine its requirements and assess industry capabilities for a system that supports advanced wireless research and testing. The technical scope for the requested system emphasizes adherence to the O-RAN Alliance Split 7.2 architecture and 3GPP Release 16 compliance. The government requires a solution capable of sub-6 GHz operation, with specific line items covering the full stack of 5G network components. The current draft specifications include a 90-day timeline for delivery and installation following a potential contract award, alongside requirements for training and warranty support. Responses to this market research phase are due by June 17, 2026, at 12:00 PM EDT. The primary place of performance for installation and acceptance testing is Gaithersburg, Maryland. The provided attachment package includes a formal Sources Sought Notice and a second version of a draft Statement of Work, which outlines the minimum technical requirements and the expected framework for the final procurement. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued a Sources Sought Notice to conduct market research for the procurement of an Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) 5G system. This initiative supports the NIST Information Technology Laboratory by seeking an end-to-end network infrastructure that includes Open Radio Units…