Large Penetrator Warhead Cases
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 Department of the Air Force, AFLCMC/EBD, is conducting market research through a Sources Sought notice to identify industry capabilities for manufacturing Large Penetrator Warhead Cases. The government is seeking information on potential sources capable of producing these cases from various steels or novel alloys. Responses are due by February 10, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Air Force is seeking vendors to manufacture and deliver empty Large Penetrator warhead cases, weighing approximately 2,000 lbs. to 30,000 lbs. These cases should be made from specified steels (4340, HP9-4-20, AF96) or potential developmental novel alloys. Contractors must demonstrate capabilities in forging, manufacturing, machining, and shipping.
Key Requirements
Respondents must have at least 5 years of experience in weapon manufacturing and successful management of government contracts. They must possess or have access to necessary equipment, data, personnel, facilities, and financial resources. Submissions should detail high-level manufacturing processes and techniques, demonstrating an understanding of metallurgical and engineering aspects.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research (for information and planning only)
- Contract Details: No contract type, period of performance, or estimated value is stated.
- Response Due: February 10, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. (CST)
- Published: January 13, 2026
Eligibility & Set-Aside
- NAICS Code: 332993 – Ammunition (except Small Arms) Manufacturing (Size Standard: 1,500 employees)
- Set-Aside: Small businesses are encouraged to respond, including those capable of manufacturing a portion of the requirement. The Government reserves the right to consider a small business set-aside based on responses.
- Restrictions: Foreign-owned/Foreign-controlled firms will not be considered.
- Registration: All prospective contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database.
- Socio-economic Status: Respondents should indicate their size and socio-economic status (e.g., SB, 8(a), HUBZone, EDWOSB, WOSB, SDVOSB).
Submission & Evaluation
Interested vendors must submit a brief and concise capabilities statement, not exceeding 10 single-spaced, 10-point font typed pages. Acceptable file formats are .pdf, .docx, and .xlsx. Submissions are to be sent electronically to Steven Wagner (steven.wagner.13@us.af.mil) and Christy Cross (christy.cross.2@us.af.mil) with the subject line "26LGPENSTEEL." To receive technical drawings and specifications, interested parties must submit a request with a valid DD Form 2345 to the contacts no later than January 21, 2026, at 2:00 P.M. (CST).
Additional Notes
This notice is for market research only and does not guarantee a future solicitation. Responses are voluntary and will not affect a potential offeror's ability to submit an offer if a solicitation is released. The Government is not liable for any costs incurred. Information submitted will be used to determine if interested and qualified sources exist.