13 -- 70MM Rocket Warhead Request for Information

The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) desires the acquisition of a multi-purpose warhead for use on the 2.75 inch hydra rockets fired from SOF aviation platforms. The United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) intends to apply for approval of a Foreign Comparative Test (FCT) project (www.acq.osd.mil/sts/fct) to qualify a multi-purpose warhead that is more effective against an array of targets to include buildings, bunkers and ships. (1) Penetration: When mounted on a MK66 rocket motor and fired, the warhead will penetrate 24 of reinforced concrete and 4 of timber/earthen bunkers. (2) Non-Developmental / In Service Status: The multi-purpose warhead must be non-developmental and qualified by other allied (NATO) countries. (3) Mass/CG Flight Characteristics: When mounted on a Hydra rocket motor, the warhead will have a similar mass and center of gravity when compared to the M229/M151 warhead to insure that no need to change supporting fire control instrumentation (weapon racks) or effect ongoing spiral developments (precision kill weapon system). (4) Incendiary Effect: The multi-purpose warhead must provide an incendiary effect to create secondary fires after impact. (5) Training Warhead: It is desired that the vendor provide an inert day/night warhead (to replace the M274) warhead that provides a visible hit signature. The new warhead should not create UXO hazards. When deployed overseas, the new warhead should allowing SOF forces to conduct training on allied ranges without creating UXO hazards or creating in-advertent range fires. (6) Facilities, Expertise and Safety: These warheads should meet stringent Navy WSRB requirements/standards. All the cartridges should provide for reduced reaction from outside stimuli (IM characteristics) and provide for good performance after undergoing storage in various environments. ** Responses to this market survey are due on or before 15 APRIL 2004, and must include a product description with performance parameters and a statement regarding current availability, summary of prior testing, test reports, summary of logistic and maintenance requirements and an estimated cost for the price of test articles and production units. This synopsis does not constitute an Invitation for Bid or Request for Proposals, and is not to be construed as a commitment by the government to issue an order or otherwise pay for the information solicited. Interested Parties should reply by submitting a White Paper no later than 15 APRIL 2004. Questions may be submitted in writing to LTC Wil Riggins at the above address or via email to riggind@socom.mil. Interested Parties who are willing to provide qualified cartridges at no cost for USSOCOM testing should so indicate in the submitted white paper. No further information is available from the contracting office.