LMTF - Advanced Radiation Environment Simulator (ARES)
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, specifically the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC), is conducting market research to identify qualified contractors for the design, construction, and integration of the Advanced Radiation Environment Simulator (ARES). This Blumlein Flash X-Ray machine will be located at the Little Mountain Test Facility (LMTF) at Hill AFB, Utah, to support Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) weapon systems modernization. Responses are due February 27, 2026.
Scope of Work
The contractor will provide a turnkey pulse power solution, including:
- Engineering, design, manufacturing, and integration of the ARES simulator.
- Qualification testing and validation against specific Key Performance Parameters (KPPs) such as peak energy, pulse width, and dose rate.
- Development of a Technical Data Package (TDP) and Vendor Item Control Drawings (VICDs).
- Management of an Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) and Earned Value Management (EVM).
- Long-term maintenance and training plans. The ARES is intended to supplement the existing Large Flash X-Ray (LFXR) simulator, addressing capability shortfalls for the Sentinel and Minuteman III programs.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Anticipated Duration: 7-year ordering period
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: February 27, 2026, 4:00 PM MST
- Place of Performance: Ogden, UT (Hill AFB)
Evaluation
The Government is requesting a white paper (max 22 pages) addressing company experience with Blumlein simulator technology (TRL 6+), program management capabilities, and proposed technical approaches for high-voltage systems and facility integration.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP). Respondents must be approved under NAICS 334517. Security requirements include potential access to Secret and Top Secret data. The Government intends to assert Unlimited Rights to all developed data and software code.