14 -- Submarine Launched Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile Technical Exchange

This is a Request for Information (RFI) to determine the latest plans and programs including technology challenges and proposed solutions for affordable Submarine Launched Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles (SLIRBMs), including launch considerations and potential payloads. Responses to this RFI will be used by the Government to select presentations to be given at the upcoming SLIRBM Technical Exchange or to otherwise be reviewed by the government. The SLIRBM requirements include: 1. System must be affordable 2. Range - IRBM 3. Missile diameter - 32.5 inches maximum 4. Both conventional and nuclear payloads to be considered 5. Payload weights, diameters and length to be consistent with missile dimensions and range 6. Conventional payload system to have GPS accuracy 7. Missile subsystem hardened to Space Grade 8. Control of collateral damage to be considered (e.g., stage debris control) 9. Intermediate range ballistic missiles, including their payloads, and all of the launcher subsystem except for electronics, are to be contained within the 86 inch diameter TRIDENT missile launch tube 10. Usable missile tube length (for missile, payload and launcher) - 36 feet maximum THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT INTEND TO AWARD A CONTRACT ON THE BASIS OF THIS RFI OR TO OTHERWISE PAY FOR THE INFORMATION SOLICITED. ANY CONTRACT THAT MIGHT BE AWARDED BASED ON INFORMATION RECEIVED OR DERIVED FROM THIS TECHNICAL EXCHANGE WILL BE THE OUTCOME OF THE COMPETITIVE PROCESS. The Strategic Systems Programs (SSP), SLIRBM Integrated Product Team is holding a SLIRBM Technical Exchange in the SSP Management Center at 1000 on 22 September 2003 and continuing through the following day as necessary. Representatives from Industry (limit, three members per company) are encouraged to attend. At this technical exchange, SSP will present detailed Navy requirements, current and future technology plans, and ongoing programs. In the interest of assisting SSP in developing a comprehensive SLIRBM project plan; industry is encouraged to participate in one or both of two manners: first by presenting information they believe germane at the Technical Exchange, and second, by submitting detailed concept papers explaining their approach and technical solutions for a SLIRBM, including cost drivers. Information relating to IRBM applications on surface ships is also sought. Those offering the first approach should submit an abstract of their proposed remarks containing the following information: a) current programs, b) future plans, and c) technology challenges and solutions. In addition, following the open exchange, a special session is planned for one-on-one Industry/Government briefings, each approximately 15 minutes in length. For all inputs: presentations, concept papers, or one-on-one briefings, information that comprehensively addresses the three technical areas of missile, payload, and launcher in a system context are desired. However, inputs that only address any one or two of these areas separately also are desired. The requirement is to consider both conventional and nuclear payloads. In doing so, if respondents believe the nuclear option is affecting affordability substantially, they are requested to separate the two payload areas so that the affordability of the conventional payload case may be understood clearly. Similarly, respondents may present only the conventional or the nuclear payload case if their expertise is limited in this manner. Respondents are encouraged to provide information not constrained by proprietary data rights. However, any proprietary data that is included in a reply should be marked appropriately. The technical exchange is classified up to SECRET-NOFORN. Please submit clearances to Strategic Systems Programs by Fax to +1 (555) 000-0000. Security clearances must be received not later than September 19, 2003. This synopsis is for information and planning purposes only. It does not constitute a formal Request for Proposals (RFP), nor is it to be construed as a commitment by the Government. All information contained in this RFI is preliminary, as well as subject to modification, and is in no way binding on the Government. Responses to this notice shall be mailed to the Strategic Systems Programs, Contracting Division, ATTN: SPN. Please provide electronic responses with this subject: RFI for Submarine Launched Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile Technical Exchange. Responses must be received no later than September 16, 2003.*****