PURCHASE OF 6X VIDS-210/LS CABLES

Single Source Justification for 6X VIDS-210/LS CABLES

Background

TAIPAN has replaced the Mobile Artillery Monitoring Battlefield Radar (MAMBA) fleet, introducing a new Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) capability into service. As part of this capability, a new BOWMAN communications system has been installed on each platform.

In accordance with JSP 604, Part 2, Volume 2, 4850-TacCIS, all new BOWMAN installations are required to undergo a Connectivity Assurance Test (CAT) prior to being accepted into service.

Situation

During the pre-CAT Installation Certification Assessment for the TacCIS installation in Taipan (MAMBA) platforms, an observation was raised identifying that the VIDS-210/LS cable connecting the GPS Applique to the HCDR was not connected. The User advised the cable connector does not fit on the HCDR.

Further investigation determined that the connector is missing the locating lugs required for attachment to the HCDR. This appears to be a manufacturing defect affecting all five TAIPAN platforms. As a result, the GPS Applique cannot be connected to the HCDR, potentially preventing the HCDR from forming part of the BOWMAN network and jeopardising successful completion of the mandatory CAT process.

TAS assess each observation made against each TacCIS installation requirement and considered what affect, if any, they have on the safety, security, supportability and performance of the TacCIS system. This has resulted in the above observation being categorised as:

Essential - the design would have a substantial impact on the safety, security, supportability and performance of the TacCIS installation.

To rectify the defect and enable the platforms to achieve connectivity assurance certification, replacement VIDS-210/LS cables are required.

Regulation

Direct Award Justification - Schedule 5, Paragraph 41(1), Procurement Act 2023

The Authority proposes to directly award a contract to General Dynamics United Kingdom Limited (GDUK) for the supply of six (6) VIDS-210/LS cables (GDUK Part Number GD400410-0380-05).

A direct award is justified as only GDUK, as the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Design Authority for the BOWMAN system and associated components, can provide the exact cable assembly required to restore the affected installations and ensure compliance with the certified BOWMAN configuration. No reasonable alternative supplier has been identified that can provide an equivalent, assured and fully compatible cable assembly suitable for use within the BOWMAN architecture.

The replacement cables are required no later than 26 February 2027 to support CAT activities and prevent delays to the entry into service of the TAIPAN capability. Accordingly, the Authority is satisfied that the criteria for direct award under Schedule 5, Paragraph 41(1) of the Procurement Act 2023 are met.