Arc Heater Specialized Parts- Mission Critical
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Air Force Test Center (AFTC) at Arnold Air Force Base (AAFB), TN, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to identify responsible sources capable of manufacturing and delivering specialized arc heater components. This RFI supports market research for a potential sole-source, follow-on Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract. Responses are due by February 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM Central Time.
Scope of Work
The Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) requires a continuous supply of these components for mission-essential hypersonic testing and reentry programs in its High-Temperature Lab (HTL) facilities. Demand is increasing due to high operational tempo and new test facilities. The components must meet exacting specifications:
- Material: Oxygen-Free High Conductivity (OFHC) copper.
- Performance: Withstand temperatures up to 13,000°R (6,649°C), gas pressures of 170 atmospheres, and internal water-cooling pressures of 1,000 PSI without deformation.
- Manufacturing: Accurately machined and brazed, free from microscopic obstructions or defects.
Estimated quantities over a five-year ordering period include 3,727 'H1' type and 14,623 'H2' and 'H3' type arc heater components.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / RFI for a potential FFP IDIQ contract.
- Duration: Five (5) year ordering period.
- Estimated Total Value/Ceiling: $14,976,177.31.
- Funding: FY26 through FY30 Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) appropriations.
- Intellectual Property: Government will acquire deliverables with Government Purpose Rights; no new technical data title or license is being acquired.
- Response Due: February 13, 2026, 1:00 PM CT.
- Published: February 4, 2026.
Eligibility / Set-Aside
This RFI is for market research to determine if sources other than the incumbent, Neodora, LLC, exist. The government anticipates a sole-source award to Neodora, LLC, and the RFI results will inform a Justification and Approval (J&A) for other than full and open competition. No specific set-aside is designated for this RFI.
Submission & Evaluation
Responses must be submitted via email to brogan.fullmer@us.af.mil with the subject line: “Response to RFI FA9101-26-R-0001 Arc Heater Components.” Submissions are limited to ten (10) 8.5" x 11" pages (10-point font minimum) in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format. Requested information includes:
- Capability Statement demonstrating technical ability and quality control.
- Past Performance evidence (similar scope, complexity, scale within last five years).
- Confirmation of access to necessary technical data, proprietary processes, specialized tooling, and facilities.
- Company Information (Name, Address, CAGE Code, UEI, Business Size Status).
- Details on minimum/maximum quantities, delivery lead-time, and potential discounts.
Additional Notes
This is an RFI for market research and planning purposes only; it is not a Request for Proposal (RFP). The government will not be responsible for any costs incurred in responding to this RFI.