Modernization of Test Control Sequencer System

Sources Sought Notice

The Air Force Test Center (AFTC/PZI) is seeking information from industry sources capable of providing a test control sequencer system to replace an existing, obsolete system and its associated software packages. The new system will provide enhanced reliability for ground test simulations of solid-propellant rocket motors across a range of simulated pressure altitudes.

• Replacement and update of the current test control sequencer system and software.

• Support for ground test simulations of solid-propellant rocket motors at various simulated pressure altitudes.

• Detailed information is available in Attachment 1 – Statement of Objectives (SOO).

• Not specified in this notice.

• This is a Sources Sought Notice for informational purposes only and is NOT a Request for Proposal (RFP).

• Responses are voluntary and do not commit the Government to any award.

• Interested parties should submit the following:

  • Company Information: Name, address, phone number, email of point of contact.
  • SAM Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number.
  • Description of primary technical capability (e.g., engineering services, construction, project management).
  • Budgetary estimate for project tasks.
  • Schedule estimate.

• Responses must be received no later than 1:00 PM Central Time (CT) on 12 February 2026.

• Submit responses via email to Ms. Brooke Vandeman at brooke.vandeman@us.af.mil.

• The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) Code is to-be-determined (TBD).

• No funds are available to pay for response preparation.

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

The primary goal is to provide updated test control sequencing for a test cell that simulates solid-propellant rocket motors under various pressure altitudes. This is necessary due to the obsolescence of the current system and its software.

The contract will require the development of a Statement of Work (SOW) to meet project requirements. Key activities include:

• Design: Including Requirements Review (RR), Conceptual Design Review (CoDR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), and Design Submission/Approval.
• Fabrication: For the Test Control Sequencer System and supporting hardware.
• Procurement and Delivery: Of the Test Control Sequencer System and supporting hardware.
• Installation: Of the Test Control Sequencer System and supporting hardware.
• Checkout: Of the Test Control Sequencer System and supporting hardware.

Significant events include:

• Project Kickoff Meeting
• Preliminary Design Review
• 60% Critical Design Review
• Final Design Submission and Approval
• Project Closeout Meeting
• Factory Acceptance Test
• Installation
• Verification Readiness Review
• Functional Configuration Audit
• Site Acceptance Test
• Physical Configuration Audit
• On-site system orientation/training

Deliverables include milestone review materials, design drawings (installation, assembly, electrical), system interface diagrams, source code descriptions and specifications, test plans (Factory Acceptance, Commissioning), repair reports, software packages/licenses, commented source code, HMI screens, O&M Life Cycle Cost Analysis, Bill of Materials, FMEA, and critical spares list.

The Government will receive five-year Government Purpose Rights to all technical data and drawings, converting to Unlimited Rights upon expiration. On-site orientation and training, including materials, will be provided to the Government, and training will be recorded.

A Quality Control Plan (QCP) must be developed and maintained to ensure requirements are met per the SOW, including procedures for meeting milestones and corrective actions.

Offerors will have flexibility in managing schedule, performance, risks, warranties, subcontracts, and data, while maintaining clear government visibility.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment 1 – Performance Parameters," outlines the specific performance parameters and requirements for the J-6 Test Control Sequencer project. It details the scope of work, performance criteria, and technical specifications that a contractor must meet.

• Existing Infrastructure: Describes the current location of the J6 Test Control Sequencer.
• Project Scope: Encompasses design, analysis, procurement, installation, commissioning, and verification of the Test Control Sequencer. Includes specific boundaries for installation and software scope.
• Performance Parameters: Lists critical performance parameters and general requirements, including compliance with AEDC standards, electrical codes (NFPA 70), and environmental considerations.
• Test Control Sequencer Requirements: Details specific technical requirements for the sequencer, including I/O interface cables, fiber optic communication, operator interface panels, workstations, remote displays, countdown time displays, chassis/module specifications (NI PXI), programming language (ANSI C-Code), data system interfacing (AEDC Data System), and software functionalities.
• Maintenance and Reliability Requirements: Specifies standards for system maintenance, including venting, draining, equipment accessibility, valve/instrumentation access, and conduit/piping routing.
• Execution Requirements: Outlines procedures for coordinating and approving outages, contractor responsibilities for repairs and verification, and government support for testing.

This attachment is crucial for bidders as it defines the technical and performance expectations for the J-6 Test Control Sequencer. It details the exact scope of work, required hardware and software specifications, installation boundaries, and maintenance standards. Understanding these parameters is essential for developing an accurate proposal and ensuring compliance with government requirements.