HAARP large scale blast testing and fragmentation characterization

SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE
Hazards Associated with Anti‑Ram Perimeters
U.S. Department of State (DOS)
Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS)
Physical Security Division (PSD)
Research and Development Branch (RD)

This is a Sources Sought Notice for market research purposes only.
This is NOT a solicitation, request for proposals, or request for quotes. No contract will be awarded from this announcement. The Government will not reimburse any costs for responding.

The purpose of this notice is to determine whether responsible small business concerns (8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB/EDWOSB, and other small‑business categories) possess the capabilities and interest to perform the work described in the attached Statement of Work (SOW) titled “Hazards Associated with Anti‑Ram Perimeters” dated 22 May 2026.

1. DESCRIPTION OF REQUIREMENT

The Bureau of Diplomatic Security’s Physical Security Division Research & Development Branch (DS/PSD/RD) seeks contractor support to conduct large‑scale blast testing and fragmentation characterization of Department anti‑ram perimeter systems subjected to a simulated Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) attack.

Work includes:
• Phase 1: Debris characterization of baseline anti‑ram barriers under a 2,000‑lb TNT‑equivalent blast.
• Phase 2: Debris characterization of modified systems using proposed opaque claddings to evaluate potential hazard‑mitigation properties.
• High‑speed videography, instrumentation planning, dynamic data collection, post‑blast debris assessment, and detailed reporting.
• Generation of updated or new engineering drawings for inclusion in the DOS Physical Security Handbook (Red Book).
• Monthly progress reporting.

Government‑furnished information includes test standards, historical test data, and drawing templates.

Anticipated NAICS: 541715 – Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
(If your agency prefers a different NAICS, I can modify.)

Estimated Period of Performance: Up to 24 months.
Accelerated schedules are preferred.

2. REQUESTED CAPABILITY INFORMATION

Interested small‑business concerns shall submit a capability statement addressing their ability to perform the following requirements:

A. Company Information
• Name, address, UEI, CAGE code
• Point(s) of contact
• Business size and socio‑economic status under the suggested NAICS:
– 8(a)
– HUBZone
– SDVOSB
– WOSB/EDWOSB
– Small Business
– Other (specify)

B. Technical Capability and Relevant Experience
Demonstrate capability and experience in:
• Large‑scale explosive testing up to 2,000 lbs TNT equivalent
• Test‑range access meeting the following:
– Flat, open areas capable of debris tracking up to 1,500 ft
– Ability to capture dynamic debris at 75 ft, 100 ft, 200 ft, and 300 ft
– Ability to run single or dual‑article tests requiring up to 3,000‑ft ranges
• Instrumentation design, including:
– High‑speed cameras
– Debris velocity/height characterization
– Debris discrimination between trials (color coding, dyes, etc.)
• Post‑test debris analysis: dimensions, weight, dispersion, and capture of 90% of debris ≥1 lb
• Blast test data processing, modeling, and reporting
• Engineering drawing development for physical security applications

Include prior contracts (federal or commercial) from the past 3–5 years that demonstrate similar test, analysis, or engineering capabilities.

C. Approach & Facilities
Respondents should include:
• Narrative describing test‑range setup and instrumentation approach
• Proposed methodology for data capture and analysis
• Discussion of ability to conduct accelerated testing or combined tests
• Proposed approach to researching and recommending opaque cladding materials (Phase 2)
• Any teaming or subcontracting strategies

D. Potential NAICS/Contract Feedback (Optional)
Industry feedback on NAICS code suitability, contract type, test feasibility, or major cost drivers is welcomed.

3. SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

Responses shall be submitted electronically in PDF or Word format.
Maximum length: 5 pages, excluding cover page.

Submit to:
Richard Crum at crumrb@state.gov
Subject Line: “Sources Sought – Hazards Associated with Anti‑Ram Perimeters”

Due Date:
Thursday June 18, 2026; at 1300 hours.

4. DISCLAIMER

This Sources Sought is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute a solicitation, nor does it commit the Government to issue a solicitation or award a contract. No feedback or evaluations will be provided to respondents.

5. ATTACHMENT
• Statement of Work – Hazards Associated with Anti‑Ram Perimeters (22 May 2026)