Stage One (1) Battery Replacement (SOBR)

The contract involves developing a replacement battery for the Stage 1 Flight Control Unit (FCU) of the Minuteman III missile, transitioning from the current silver-oxide zinc chemistry to a thermal battery chemistry design. The contractor is responsible for designing, developing, and qualifying the thermal battery, conducting qualification testing, and providing initial spares and future assets to support the missile system's inventory through its operational life. The project emphasizes adherence to specific material requirements, notably copper alloy terminals, while allowing for potential material substitutions if justified with appropriate risk mitigation strategies, considering the impact on system safety, interface compatibility, and environmental conditions. The government has set an anticipated award date of May 1, 2025, with proposals due by January 10, 2025, and has granted a one-time extension for the submission deadline due to the holiday season. The scope also includes qualification testing, which the contractor may perform or outsource, and the submission of a Statement of Basis of Requirements (SOBR) proposal. The contract underscores the importance of managing design variations carefully to avoid introducing risks that could compromise system performance or compliance with nuclear and safety standards. The solicitation is managed by the Department of the Air Force at Hill Air Force Base, with key contacts provided for further communication. The project aims to ensure a reliable, safe, and effective replacement battery for the missile’s flight control system, supporting the strategic missile inventory and operational readiness.