OUSW R&E - Low-Cost Common Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) Booster for Low-Cost Containerized Munitions (LCCM)
Technical Objective
Develop and prototype a low-cost, Hazard Division 1.3-compliant solid rocket motor (SRM) that serves as a common booster for multiple Low-Cost Containerized Munitions (LCCM) flight vehicles. The SRM must prioritize simplicity, modularity, and high-volume automated manufacturing using only standard materials, with a standardized mechanical interface to payloads per the Interface Control Document (ICD). Assessment focuses on manufacturing quality and performance validation rather than full qualification.
Core Technologies
Who Should Apply
Companies with solid rocket motor design and manufacturing expertise, production-scale capabilities, and familiarity with military munitions Hazard Classification requirements (HD 1.3). Applicants should demonstrate experience in rapid prototyping, automated manufacturing, and ability to work with standardized, non-exotic materials.
Evaluation Criteria
- 1Technical feasibility and approach to low-cost SRM design with emphasis on modularity and manufacturability
- 2Manufacturing scalability and demonstrated capacity for high-volume automated production
- 3Compliance with Hazard Division 1.3 standards and use of standard (non-proprietary, non-exotic) materials
- 4Adherence to standardized mechanical interface design per ICD
- 5Schedule feasibility for rapid prototyping, build, test, and assessment
- 6Cost and manufacturability (simplicity prioritized over marginal performance gains)
Key Dates
| Application Deadline | 2026-08-11 |
| Government Review Begins | 2027-08-01 |
Submission Mechanics
Unknown; submissions appear to be received via an open challenge mechanism with reviews beginning August 1, 2027. Specific format, page limits, and portal information not provided in available documentation.
BD Strategic Notes
This opportunity is well-suited to established aerospace/defense contractors or specialized SRM manufacturers with existing production infrastructure, military certification experience, and commitment to design-for-manufacturability principles. Strategic fit signals include prior work on modular propulsion systems, high-volume automated production, and demonstrated cost-reduction initiatives in solid rocket propulsion.
Watch Out For
- Strict prohibition on exotic or proprietary materials; must use standard, commodity materials only
- Hazard Division 1.3 explosives compliance is mandatory; applicants must have relevant licensing and facility certifications
- Prototype motors will undergo expedited assessment rather than full qualification, potentially limiting performance headroom
- Standardized mechanical interface per ICD is non-negotiable; custom interfaces will not be accepted