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About REF FAQ's Systems News Multimedia Contact Technological Solutions Submissions Links Gateway Page |
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Q: Why REF? A: The REF saves Soldiers lives. The REF is uniquely organized to be rapid. We house operations, intelligence, requirements validation, business management, acquisition, technology management and logistics all under one roof. This allows us to move quickly in our equipping actions.
Q: What is rapid equipping?
A: The REF urgently acts on Soldier requirements to provide equipment geared to specific capability shortfalls and to deliver limited quantities of the BEST technologies available. The REF focuses on providing “Game Changing Technology” to our warfighters. Game Changing Technology are solutions that Enhance Survivability, Improve Force Protection and Increase Lethality. The REF equips specific units that are engaged in operations. We do not field to the entire Army.
Q: Who is the REF customer?
A: Our customer is the Soldier or commander that has a threat or challenge in their operational environment. If this is you, please contact us so we can assist in the development of a technological solution. Our focus is on Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, but we are available to help with operational threats or challenges located elsewhere.
Q: What are the areas of current REF interests?
A: Protection: To provide systems that help to preserve the force so the commander can apply maximum combat power.
Intelligence: To provide enhanced Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Capabilities.
Movement and Maneuver: To ensure the movement of friendly forces and to enhance force projection.
Command and Control: To assist and support the commander in exercising authority and direction.
Sustainment: To provide support and services to ensure freedom of action, extend operational reach, and prolong endurance.
Fires: To enhance the collective and coordinated use of Army indirect fires, joint fires, and nonlethal fires.
Q: Does REF do everything? What does it NOT do?
A: REF does not duplicate the existing military supply chain system, handle basic issue items, or supply items that units can research and order on their own. Examples of products REF does NOT do provide include batteries, weapons, boots, T-shirts, etc.
Q: I have a need. What do I have to do to get REF to help?
A: For small items of low cost to develop or experiment, REF needs a simple need statement, clearly defining the capability required. For higher dollar projects, those over $100,000, an Operational Needs Statement must be drafted and signed by an appropriate official. REF stands ready to assist in the ONS drafting process. Keep in mind: the battlefield is littered with needs. REF tries to focus on "high-value, technical targets," which, independent of cost, greatly aid the mission and/or reduce risk to the Soldier. Think "need to have," not "nice to have."
Q: How long does it take the REF to obtain a solution to an operational challenge?
A: The REF goal is to provide equipping solutions within 180 days.
Q: How do I get REF-sponsored equipment repaired?
A: Contact REF logistics at ref.logistics@conus.army.mil for support
Q: How do I contact REF for support?
A: Contact the REF via email at these addresses:
- For Operational support: ref.operations@conus.army.mil
- For Industry: ref.industry@conus.army.mil
- For Logistical support: ref.logistics@conus.army.mil
- For Public Affairs support: ref.pao@conus.army.mil
Q: How can soldiers obtain secure information about the REF?
A: The REF has a community page and a knowledge center at AKO, and a knowledge center at AKO-S. The ID numbers for these forums are as follows:
- AKO Community Page ID (CPID) is 2048591003
- AKO Knowledge Center (KCC) ID Number: 748091
- AKO-S Knowledge Center ID Number: 15973
Q: How do I submit a technology solution?
A: From the REF homepage, click the TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS SUBMISSION hyperlink. Choose the appropriate submission area and follow the directions. Once you complete the first page, you will be provided with a hyper-link that will allow you to return to your submission at a later time, if needed. You do not have to complete the submission at one time. However, your can not submit your idea until complete. Once submitted, you will receive an idea tracking number that will allow you to check the status of submission.
Q: Where can I find the Eskimo User’s Manual?
A: Here is the User’s Manual.