Multi-Role Rebreather (MRR) - Design, Development, Testing, Manufacture, Training and Support of Specialist Dive Sets

Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) Salvage and Marine Operations (SALMO) Delivery Team (DT) have a requirement for design, development and testing, manufacture, training, and support of a Multi-Role Rebreather (MRR) diver breathing apparatus to support a range of tasks including long endurance diving operations.

The introduction of new underwater mobility assets has highlighted limitations of current in-service underwater breathing apparatus that were not procured to support current or emerging capability, and other associated dive tasks.

The Authority requires a UK Prime supplier to deliver this requirement. The following is provided for information.

High-level system parameters:

• Sub-surface endurance of 3 to 12 hours.
• Transit depth approx. 6m up to 10m, short excursions to a maximum depth of 30m.
• Modular design enabling flexibility for operations including:
• Endurance variable from 3 to 12 hours depending upon mission requirements
• Use of propulsion equipment up to 3 knots
• Extended periods of swimming
• Able to be rapidly re-roled for multiple diving tasks during an operation.
• Able to be easily stowed and made ready for use.
• Streamlined, compact design.
• Efficient resource use to minimise size and weight.

Technical considerations:

• Closed circuit, electronic diver breathing system with built in safety and resource monitoring systems.
• Upgradable sensor and monitoring systems throughout the life of the capability.

Supplier experience/considerations:

• UK Prime able to operate with and handle data at OFFICIAL-SENSITIVE and above, including provision of UK National staff with SC.
• Track record of designing, developing, and testing diver breathing apparatus to military requirements/standards.
• Access to diver breathing apparatus development and test facilities to the Requirements of BS EN 14143.
• Oxygen clean room assembly and maintenance facilities.
• Ability to manufacture at scale and provide the Quality Assurance processes to support a military diver breathing apparatus capability. Additional information: This PIN serves to inform potential suppliers of the intention to engage with Industry whereby supplier representatives will be invited to attend individual meetings with the Authority. At the meeting they will have the opportunity to present on their capacity and capability to deliver the requirement discussed above. More information to help with preparation for the meeting will be shared with those who respond to register their interest.

If you are interested in attending, please submit expressions of interest to desshipscomrcl-salmo-multiuser@mod.gov.uk by Friday 17th January 2025. Specific time slots will be arranged directly with respondents via email.

Tentative dates (subject to change):

Industry engagement expected to take place between 4th and 13th February 2025

For the avoidance of doubt, this notice is not a call for competition. Any comments, indications of interest, participation, or non-participation by any organisation at this stage will not influence the process, selection and/or award decision for any future possible procurement, nor will it be taken as a supplier’s committed position. Non-participation in the Industry Day will not exclude you from any possible future competition for this requirement.