14--EXTENDED RANGE ACTIVE MISSILE (ERAM)!!

The Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) plans to award a contract to Raytheon Missile Systems (RMS) for the development, design, testing, production, and support of the Extended Range Active Missile (ERAM). This missile is intended to serve as the Surface Navy's primary anti-air warfare weapon, combining extended range capabilities with an active seeker system. RMS is the sole source capable of meeting the contract requirements by the initial operational capability target date of Fiscal Year 2010 or earlier. The contract will be awarded without full and open competition under the authority that permits sole-source contracting due to unique capability and cost avoidance considerations. The ERAM contract covers comprehensive support including spare parts and is critical for enhancing the Navy's defensive and offensive missile operations against aerial threats. Since RMS is the only provider able to meet these specific technical and timeline demands without incurring excessive governmental costs, they have been selected as the exclusive contractor. Potential subcontractors interested in participating should reach out directly to RMS for opportunities. The solicitation was publicly posted in early 2003, outlining the intention and framework to solidify this strategic defense asset for naval warfare.