Fission Reactor Experiment Hosted by North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM)
ID: F3LNEA1Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEN NC J4 LOGISTICSPETERSON AFB, CO, 80914-3820, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) (541715)

PSC

NATIONAL DEFENSE R&D SERVICES; DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE - MILITARY; EXPERIMENTAL DEVELOPMENT (AC13)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/e9e4ad947d4f468b8135bd89d8f0984a/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), is seeking contributions from industry, laboratory, and academic partners for a small fission reactor experiment aimed at enhancing technology readiness in compact reactor designs for both space and terrestrial applications. The primary objective of this initiative is to validate the neutronic behavior of hydride moderated compact nuclear reactors, addressing the current lack of a validated nuclear benchmark that limits commercial adoption. Interested organizations are invited to submit their capabilities and relevant information by September 16, 2024, to potentially collaborate on this project, which does not guarantee contract awards or remuneration. For further inquiries, contact Jeth A. Fogg at jeth.a.fogg2.civ@mail.mil or Kevin Landreth at kevin.m.landreth.mil@mail.mil.

    Files
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    NNC RFI Fission Technical Materials Experiment.docx
    The Request for Information (RFI) issued by NORAD and USNORTHCOM aims to identify technological contributions from industry, laboratory, and academic partners for a small fission reactor experiment. The goal is to enhance technology readiness in compact reactor designs applicable for both space and terrestrial operations, addressing the lack of a validated nuclear benchmark that hampers commercial adoption. The planned experiment includes testing hydride moderated compact nuclear reactors to generate a comprehensive nuclear dataset crucial for future development. Interested organizations must submit their capabilities and relevant information by the deadline of September 16, 2024, to potentially collaborate without expectation of contract awards or remuneration. The selection process will prioritize technology relevance, completeness of submissions, and operational demand from government entities. Responses should avoid classified information and will be independently reviewed, ensuring compliance with procurement standards. This RFI represents strategic exploration aiming to foster innovative solutions in compact fission power systems.
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