Project Aristaeus - RFI

Advanced Short Range Air-To-Air Missiles (ASRAAM) are subjected to electrical testing using a Field Test Set (FTS). The FTS does not contain the ability to power itself, thus a requirement exist to supply / produce a converter to supply FTS power direct from domestic power supplies; power input from domestic mains (110/240v 50 Hz 1Φ AC) and supply the required FTS input voltages, 115V 400 Hz 3Φ AC and 28VDC. Any converter produced must adhere to explosive safety regulations and the following standards; EN6100-6-1 and EN61000-6-3, (Ingress Protection) IP20 (IEC529), IP54 internal to any protective casing; EN50091-1, EN50091-2, EN61000. Adherence to Explosive Safety standards will be assessed via the Defence Ordinance Safety Regulator (DOSR).

1. What Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) solutions are available to meet this requirement within industry? What are the associated costs if there is already a working solution (manufacture, delivery, import/export costs)?

2. If there is a COTS solution, can you provide technical specifications, including compliance when used within an explosive processing environment.

3. What through life and maintenance packages are provided to support the COTS system (fault rectification, preventative maintenance). If so, what are the additional costs?

4. Is the COTS system 'field deployable'? Is it robust to operate in austere environments (waterproof, rigidised)?

5. If no COTS option is available, can you design and produce a working solution? If so, please detail the warranty period (if available), are there any training requirements before use, is it deployable, what is the cost of generation?

6. Would a site visit be required prior to design and manufacture of a prototype / production run of the power converter?

7. If a new converter is to be designed and produce, what would be the lead time before delivery? What do you see the risks being of generating a prototype?

8. The FTS power output sockets are military standard. If there is a COTS solution but does not have military power connectors installed, can these be installed thus enabling use on the FTS?

9. Is it possible for any COTS or designed and produced solution to be portable, weighing less than 20KG, be no bigger than 1m³, and operate in temperatures of -10°C to +40°C.

Further information and the Statement of Requirement can be obtained by emailing: rachael.murby100@mod.gov.uk

Responses and clarification questions to this RFI should be provided to the email address: rachael.murby100@mod.gov.uk