Thermobaric Advanced Blast Simulator (TABS)
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 Defense / Defense Health Agency (DHA), specifically the Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity on behalf of the United States Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR), has issued a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) for a Thermobaric Advanced Blast Simulator (TABS). This RFI seeks market information for a system capable of producing scientifically precise and replicable thermobaric blast waveforms for medical research. The TABS system is required to be delivered by September 2028 to San Antonio, TX. Responses are due June 5, 2026.
Scope of Work
The USAISR requires a TABS system integrated within a 40-foot ISO shipping container, weatherproof and environmentally hardened (-10°F to 130°F, 0-100% humidity), with an HVAC system. It must operate on a 30 ft x 60 ft level area, on concrete or gravel, with a gas-powered generator and dual power capability. Key technical requirements include:
- Control & Data Acquisition: Remote operation, off-network Windows-based DAS with USB, integrated DAS hardware (at least 4 channels, 200 kHz sampling rate, objective 800 kHz).
- Sensors: Minimum three wall-mounted piezoresistive pressure transducers and one pitot-static pressure probe per test section.
- Blast Performance: Tailorable peak static overpressure (PSOP) in mid-field (35-55 PSI) and far-field (5-35 PSI), with a positive phase duration of 3-10 milliseconds, exhibiting thermobaric blast features.
- Replicability & Testing: Proof of performance, with acceptance testing requiring 12 mid-field and 16 far-field blast tests (with/without reactive metal particulates) demonstrating performance within 5% standard deviation.
- Operational Tempo: Complete cycle time not to exceed 15 minutes.
- Test Sections: At least two for rodent-sized specimens (250-550 grams) with secure, fire-retardant mounting.
- Safety: Operator safety, onboard gas storage, purge/ventilation, and post-blast air replenishment.
- Turnkey System: Includes all necessary lines, regulators, cords, and hookups.
- Support: On-site installation, calibration, comprehensive training within 30 days of delivery, and a minimum 2-year warranty with after-sale technical support.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- NAICS Code: 541715 – Research and Development in the physical, engineering and life sciences.
- Response Due: June 5, 2026, 12:00 PM Eastern
- Published: May 5, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested vendors should submit a capability statement detailing their capabilities, novel ideas, industry best practices, relevant experience, and expertise. The statement is limited to a maximum of 5 typed pages (excluding cover page, table of contents, tables, and charts). Submissions must be sent electronically via email to Mr. James Clingan (james.b.clingan.civ@health.mil) and Mr. Justin Pickett (justin.h.pickett.civ@health.mil) with the subject header HT9425-26-RFI-JBC03.
Additional Notes
This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation. The Government is not obligated to award a contract or pay for information submitted. No proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information should be included. Vendors are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for future solicitations.