Launcher and sight for the Attenuating Energy Projectile (AEP)

The Authorities seek to determine market potential and consider market views on the requirements with a view to ensure such views are considered for any potential procurement that the Authorities may wish to launch.

No information contained in this RFI, or in any communication made between the Authorities and any Potential Provider in connection with this RFI, shall be relied upon as constituting a contract, agreement, or representation that any procurement or contract may result from this RFI. Under no circumstances shall the Authorities incur any liability in respect of this RFI or any supporting documentation.

The Authorities will not reimburse any costs incurred by Potential Providers in connection with preparation and submission of their responses to this RFI.

Police in the UK currently use the Attenuating Energy Projectile (AEP), in conjunction with a launcher and sight, as a Less Lethal Weapon (LLW) for threats in the approximate range of up to 40 m. These threats can be divided into two operational scenarios:

• Armed officers dealing with a violent individual use the system as a Less Lethal option to minimise recourse to lethal force. This is the most common usage across the UK.
• During serious public disorder it is a tactical option for Public Order Commanders where there is a serious risk of loss of life or serious injury occurring.

In both cases the system enables a targeted use of force against an identified individual.

‘AEP System’ is the term for the weapon system that consists of the Attenuating Energy Projectile round fired from the L104A2 Baton Gun with an L18A1/A2 sight. AEP is actually the name of the round but has become the de facto title for the whole system. This system has been in use for over 15 years and has proved to be an effective less lethal tactical option for officers with no reported deaths directly attributed to its use.

The AEP round will continue to be an option available for UK policing. This request for information seeks details of alternative launchers (including a suitable sighting system) for use with AEP.