70RSAT26R00000003 - Solicitation Body - 20251223.pdf

PIID: 70RSAT26R00000003

FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (FAR) OVERHAUL PART 12

COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION NOTICE

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial products or commercial services prepared in accordance with part 12. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation. Offers are being requested and a separate written solicitation will not be issued.

Solicitation number 70RSAT26R00000003 is issued as a request for proposal (RFP) for mobile and transportable microreactor system development, testing, and deployment.

This acquisition is a full and open competition. This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference. The full text of provisions and clauses may be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov.

A Federal Priorities and Allocations System (FPAS) assigned rating may be included at a future date.

(1) NAICS: 221113 - Nuclear Electric Power Generation

(2) Date: December 23, 2025

(3) Year: 2025

(4) Contracting Office ZIP Code: 20528-0115

(5) Product or Service Code: 6116 Fuel Cell Power Units, Components, and Accessories

(6) Contracting Office Address: U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security

Office of Procurement Operations Washington DC 20528-0115

(7) Subject: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Mobile and

Transportable Microreactor System Solicitation

(8) Proposed Solicitation Number: 70RSAT26R00000003

(9) Closing Response Date: 4:00 PM Easter Standard Time on Friday, January 9, 2026

(10) Contact Point or Contracting Officer: Darin Andrew Jones

(11) Contract Award and Solicitation Number: Solicitation #: 70RSAT26R00000003

Award #: TBD

(12) Contract Award Dollar Amount: $361,500,000 - $722,000,000.00

(13) Line Item Number: TBD

(14) Contract Award Date: (Expected during Q1 of calendar year 2026) http://www.acquisition.gov/

(15) Contractor: TBD

(16) Description: This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR part 12, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; proposals are being requested. The provisions 52.212-1, 52.212.2, 52.212-4, and 52.212-5 apply to this

RFP.

(17) Place of Contract Performance: TBD

(18) Set-aside Status: This solicitation is not set-aside for small business.

<END OF SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION COVER>

SECTION A - SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

(a) (See Standard Form (SF) 1449, “Solicitation/Contract/Order for Commercial Products and Commercial Services”)

(b) This solicitation 70RSAT26R00000003 is being issued as a Request for Proposal (RFP) and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through the Revolutionary Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Overhaul in accordance with Executive Order 142175, “Restoring Common Sense to Federal Procurement,” effective April 15, 2025 (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/restoring-common-sense-to-federal-procurement/).

(c) Questions and feedback must be submitted via email to the points of contact listed, using the template provided.

(END OF SECTION A)

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/restoring-common-sense-to-federal-procurement/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/04/restoring-common-sense-to-federal-procurement/

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

(a) A fixed-price with incentives type contract with optional CLINs including an incentive structure with payments based on milestones is anticipated.

(b) In addition to the fixed price for each milestone, the Contractor may be eligible for an incentive payment equal to an additional five percent (5%) of a given milestone payment. The Government’s determination to pay the incentive for a given milestone is contingent on delivered items meeting all technical performance specifications. The incentive payment is earned only when the Contractor delivers six (6) months in advance of the identified due date for milestones.

Contract Line Item Number

(CLIN)

CLIN Description Contract

Type Amount

CLIN 0001 Milestone 1 – Contract Stand-Up & Preliminary Design FFP $ TBD CLIN 0002 Milestone 2 – Prototype (Unit 0) Completion & Validation FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0003 (Optional w/ Incentive) Milestone 3 – FOAK (Unit 1) Delivery, Testing, Acceptance FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004 (Optional w/ Incentive) Milestone 4 – NOAK Manufacturing & Delivery (Units 2–10) FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004a (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 2 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004a2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 2 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004b (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 3 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004b2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 3 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004c (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 4 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004c2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 4 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004d (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 5 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004d2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 5 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004e (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 6 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004e2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 6 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004f (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 7 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004f2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 7 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004g (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 8 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004g2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 8 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004h (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 9 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004h2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 9 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0004i (Optional w/ Incentive) NOAK Unit 10 FFP $ TBD

Contract Line Item Number

(CLIN)

CLIN Description Contract

Type Amount

CLIN 0004i2 (Optional w/ Incentive) 5% of NOAK Unit 10 FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0005 (Optional) Milestone - Secure Operations, Protection, and Lifecycle Support FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0005a (Optional) Milestone - Secure Operations, Protection, and Lifecycle Support for Prototype

FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0005b (Optional) Milestone - Secure Operations, Protection, and Lifecycle Support for

FOAK

FFP $ TBD

CLIN 0005c (Optional) Milestone - Secure Operations, Protection, and Lifecycle Support for

NOAK

FFP $ TBD

TOTAL CONTRACT PRICE $ TBD

(END OF SECTION B)

SECTION C - REQUIREMENTS

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT FOR MICROREACTOR CAPABILITIES FOR MOBILE

AND TRANSPORTABLE RESILIENT POWER

PURPOSE.

The purpose of this Performance Work Statement (PWS) is to define the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission-driven outcomes for the design, development, licensing, manufacturing, delivery, site integration, testing, commissioning, and initial operational support of a transportable and mobile microreactor system. The overall purpose is to accelerate the Nation’s energy resilience by demonstrating and deploying the first federal microreactor system capable of powering critical DHS missions across fixed-site and expeditionary operating environments, including emergency response/disaster recovery in austere and degraded environments.

The PWS communicates DHS’s desired end states, rather than prescriptive design details, and enables vendors to propose innovative, technically sound approaches that meet required performance outcomes.

DHS is responsible for ensuring the continuity of federal operations, supporting national resilience, and enabling rapid response to emergencies, disasters, and emerging threats. Microreactors offer DHS three strategic advantages:

1. Resilience: Multi-year, uninterruptible power for critical facilities.

2. Mobility: Ability to support emergency response and field operations without reliance on diesel.

3. Scalability: First-of-a-kind (FOAK) and Nth-of-a-kind (NOAK) production can support broader homeland and interagency missions.

DHS requires a system that is both transportable and mobile, enabling deployment at designated DHS site(s) and redeployment to disaster or contingency environments as operational needs evolve.

SCOPE OR MISSION.

The Scope of this effort includes an acquisition to deliver a mobile and transportable microreactor system capable of providing resilient, long-duration, carbon-free electrical power to support DHS missions relating to continuity, emergency response, operational resilience, and national preparedness.

This effort shall deliver ten (10) mobile microreactor systems that meet the following broad requirements:

Mobility performance within the required operational envelope; and Ability to deliver functioning microreactors before 31 December 2028.

Key deliverable attributes

• 1–5 MWe continuous electrical output

• ≥3–10 years core life without refueling

• Sealed‑core, factory‑fueled design

• Minimal site preparation and onsite operation

• Transportability by road/rail/barge

• Compatibility with microgrids, black‑start, and remote monitoring

• Compliance with NRC or DOE/DoD authorization pathways

Key deliverable attributes

• Deliverable no later than 2028

These requirements support resilience, disaster response, and remote operations.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

1. Deliver a Dual-Mode Microreactor System (Transportable + Mobile)

The Contractor shall design and deliver a microreactor system that:

• Functions as a transportable asset for pre-determined government facilities and resilience missions, and

• Operates as a mobile asset capable of rapid deployment, minimal site preparation, and redeployment for FEMA and DHS emergency missions.

A single-mode solution is unacceptable; vendors must satisfy both modes to be compliant.

2. Achieve Operational Deployment by December 2028

The system must progress through:

• Design maturation

• Licensing

• Prototype testing (criticality and power generation)

• FOAK manufacturing

• Delivery

• Site integration

• Commissioning

…such that they become mission-ready no later than December 2028.

3. Demonstrate Prototype Performance

The Contractor must deliver a prototype that:

• Achieves stable criticality

• Demonstrates autonomous operational control

• Produces electrical power at design output

• Validates safety behavior under normal and off-normal conditions

• Verifies key assumptions in the safety analysis and licensing case

Prototype performance is directly tied to milestone payments defined in the performance criteria.

4. Deliver a First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) Production System

The Contractor must:

• Manufacture the FOAK reactor module

• Obtain necessary licensing approvals

• Achieve Type B (or equivalent) transport certification

• Deliver the FOAK unit to DHS

• Support its installation and commissioning

• Integrate it into a DHS microgrid and validate its operational performance

The FOAK unit establishes the baseline for subsequent fleet production.

5. Produce and Deliver Nth-of-a-Kind (NOAK) Units

The Contractor shall deliver NOAK production batches:

• Units 2–5 no later than July 1, 2028 (Incentive target January 1, 2028)

• Units 6–10 no later than December 31, 2028 (Incentive target June 1, 2028)

These units must demonstrate:

• Consistent manufacturability

• Improved cost structure

• Repeatable quality assurance

• Standardized deployment and integration processes

6. Meet All Licensing, Safety, and Regulatory Requirements

The system must meet safety, security, and regulatory expectations required for:

• NRC or DOE licensing

• NEPA Environmental Assessment

• Nuclear material safeguards (if applicable)

• Type B transport certification

• Cybersecurity (DHS 4300A/B, NRC RG 5.71)

• Radiation protection (10 CFR 20)

The objective is to produce a system that is not only deployable but licensable and defensible under regulatory scrutiny.

7. Integrate Seamlessly with DHS Microgrids and Infrastructure

The system must:

• Support islanding, black-start, and load-following modes

• Integrate with DHS electrical protection systems

• Provide stable, high-quality power under varying load conditions

• Support rapid configuration for emergency response microgrids

8. Enable Safe, Secure Transport and Redeployment

The Contractor must demonstrate:

• Safe over-the-road, rail, maritime, or air transport (as applicable)

• Mobile deployment within minimal time and with minimal civil preparation

• Secure redeployment procedures for disaster response or contingency operations

This objective ensures the microreactor system remains flexible and mission-adaptable.

9. Provide Training, Documentation, and Initial Operational Support

The Contractor must deliver:

• Comprehensive operator training

• Security procedure manuals

• Emergency response plans

• Operations and maintenance documentation

• 12 months of initial operational support

The objective is to ensure DHS can operate and secure the microreactor system effectively from day one.

10. Support DHS Strategic Resilience and National Preparedness Goals

The microreactor will:

• Reduce reliance on vulnerable grid and fuel supply systems

• Provide resilient power during emergencies

• Enhance homeland security mission continuity

• Support future expansion of microreactor-based resilience solutions

PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES AND REQUIREMENTS.

The Contractor shall design, develop, license, manufacture, test, deliver, install, and support a microreactor system that meets the following performance requirements. These requirements define the operational, safety, regulatory, transportability, mobility, resilience, and integration outcomes DHS must achieve to fulfill mission needs.

Vendors must propose solutions—technical, procedural, and operational—that satisfy these outcomes while aligning with the performance criteria and payment milestones.

Key Performance Milestone Dates

Ability to meet or exceed the delivery and performance metrics

Milestone Date Incentive Target Prototype criticality January 1, 2027 N/A Prototype electrical generation

June 30, 2027 N/A

FOAK Production Start By July 1, 2027 N/A FOAK Operational Power/ Delivery

December 31, 2027 5% of milestone pmt;

July 1, 2027

Units 2–5 delivered July 1, 2028 5% of milestone pmt;

January 1, 2028

Units 6–10 December 31, 2028 5% of milestone pmt;

June 1, 2028

Operational Support Until December 31, 2033/34 (5 years from delivery)

N/A

4.1 Dual-Mode Deployment Performance

The system must demonstrate full functionality in both deployment modes:

Transportable Mode Performance

• Supports long-duration operation (years) at fixed DHS facilities.

• Requires defined, limited civil works (foundation, trenching, microgrid tie-in).

• Provides stable baseload power for continuity and critical infrastructure.

Mobile Mode Performance

• Deploys rapidly with minimal site preparation (e.g., graded ground, minor leveling).

• Uses integrated or modular shielding sufficient for safety and licensing.

• Achieves full operational capability without permanent structures.

• Allows redeployment with minimal teardown.

A system lacking credible performance in either mode is non-compliant.

4.2 Power Output & Electrical Performance

The system must:

• Provide continuous electrical power output consistent with DHS requirements (vendor-specified but justified).

• Operate in grid-forming mode for islanded DHS microgrids.

• Support black-start and autonomous recovery.

• Respond to fluctuating load demands (load-following).

• Meet IEEE 1547 / IEEE 2030 interoperability standards.

Electrical power quality must remain within allowable voltage, frequency, harmonic distortion, and transient response limits under all operating conditions.

4.3 Onsite Maintenance Operation

The system must demonstrate:

• Minimal staffing requirements (no 24/7 on-site operations).

• Automated startup, shutdown, and steady-state control.

• Automated protective action responses (SCRAM, thermal limits, fault handling).

• Remote monitoring from DHS facilities is permitted only as non-actuating, supervisory monitoring. All operational control and maintenance actions affecting reactor safety, security, or power generation shall occur within site boundaries under Government authority.

• Fail-safe behavior under loss of communications.

4.4 Safety Performance Requirements

The system must meet or exceed:

Inherent & Passive Safety

• Passive decay heat removal

• No need for active cooling

• No operator-dependent safety mechanisms

Accident Safety Performance

System must demonstrate safe performance under:

• Loss of coolant / loss of flow

• Thermal transient and reactivity disturbances

• Mobile transport shock and vibration

• External hazards (wind, seismic, flooding)

• Cyber-physical disturbances

Radiological Limits

• Meets dose limits for controlled and uncontrolled areas per 10 CFR 20.

• Maintains public and worker safety margins in both deployment modes.

4.5 Licensing Performance Requirements

The system must be licensable under:

• NRC Part 50/52, or

• DOE demonstration authority,

• or a hybrid/jurisdictional approach acceptable to regulators and DHS.

Performance requirements include:

• Submittal of a complete Preliminary Safety Analysis Report (PSAR).

• Regulator acknowledgement of safety and licensing progress.

• Resolution of safety-critical Request for Additional Information (RAIs).

• Completion of FOAK licensing sufficient to allow delivery by January 2028.

The Contractor must maintain licensing schedule credibility tied to milestone payments.

4.6 Prototype Performance Requirements

The prototype must:

• Achieve stable criticality (Prototype Milestone 2).

• Produce electric power at design output (Prototype Milestone 3).

• Validate thermal, neutronic, and structural models.

• Demonstrate control system reliability.

• Verify mobile and transportable operating assumptions.

Prototype performance is tied to the 18% milestone tranche.

4.7 First Of A Kind (FOAK) Performance Requirements

The FOAK unit must:

• Complete manufacturing and QA verification.

• Secure all required transport certifications (Type B or equivalent).

• Successfully integrate into a DHS microgrid.

• Demonstrate stable operation under DHS load profiles.

• Complete commissioning and readiness testing.

FOAK performance is tied to the 30% milestone tranche.

4.8 Nth Of A Kind (NOAK) Performance Requirements

NOAK production units must:

• Demonstrate cost and schedule efficiencies relative to FOAK.

• Meet manufacturing repeatability and QA consistency.

• Deliver Units 2–5 by July 1, 2028.

• Deliver Units 6–10 by December 31, 2028.

NOAK performance is tied to the 38% milestone tranche.

4.9 Transport & Redeployment Performance

The system must demonstrate the ability to:

• Be transported safely by road, rail, maritime vessel, and/or air (as applicable).

• Maintain structural integrity under transport shock and vibration.

• Rapidly redeploy from one site to another.

• Meet DOT/NRC/DOE transport regulations.

• Maintain cybersecurity and physical protection during movement.

The system must be capable of being redeployed multiple times without requiring hardware modifications.

4.10 Microgrid Integration Performance

The system must integrate with DHS microgrids and electrical infrastructure, including:

• Synchronization and protection coordination.

• Load prioritization and dispatch control.

• Real-time monitoring and supervisory control.

• Cybersecure interface points.

• Demonstrated performance in both fixed and expeditionary microgrid configurations.

4.11 Security Performance Requirements

The system must meet DHS, NRC, and DOE standards for:

• Cybersecurity (DHS 4300A/B, NRC RG 5.71).

• Physical protection (10 CFR 73-equivalent).

• Insider threat mitigation.

• Secure transport chain-of-custody.

• Integration with DHS SOC and protective forces.

Security performance must be sustained through prototype, FOAK, and NOAK phases.

4.12 Documentation, Training, and Support Performance

The Contractor must deliver:

• System design documentation

• Licensing and safety documentation

• Security plans

• Operations and maintenance manuals

• Training for DHS operators, responders, and security personnel

• 12 months of initial operational support post-FOAK commissioning

4.13 Fuel Requirements

The Contractor shall provide a fuel solution that meets the following requirements:

- Enrichment ≤20% U-235.

- Fuel form qualified and licensable no later than 31 December 2028.

- Fuel manufacturing available to support prototype, FOAK, and NOAK fueling by 2028.

- Minimum microreactor core life of 5+ years without refueling.

- Spent fuel shall be removed from the DHS site as soon as transportable.

4.14 Site Footprint and Radiological Boundaries

The microreactor footprint, including radiological boundaries, shall not exceed 10 acres (Threshold) or 5 acres (Objective).

Boundary layouts must account for skyshine, activated materials, building elevations, and 10 CFR 20 limits.

4.15 Power Output and Availability Requirements

Individual reactor modules shall provide ≥0.7 MWe (T) and up to 2 MWe (O) with the ability to integrated multiple reactor into a distributed system.

Electrical availability shall be ≥90% once connected to local microgrid for load management.

4.16 Regulatory Authority Requirements

Vendors may select NRC or DOE licensing pathways.

DHS operates under DOE authorities via a Memorandum of Understanding.

Vendors must demonstrate credible 2028 schedule feasibility including PSAR completeness and resolution of safety-critical RAIs.

4.17 Operations Architecture and Control

Transportable mode operations shall be controlled from a local control room at the site installation.

Remote or wireless operational control is not permitted.

All safety-critical digital systems shall be air-gapped from the public internet.

Maintenance and diagnostics shall occur only within site boundaries.

Supervisory remote monitoring is allowed if cyber and regulatory criteria are met.

4.17.1 Definitions

For purposes of this contract:

Autonomous operation means local, onboard automatic control functions executed by the reactor system within Government-approved parameters (e.g., startup sequencing, steady-state control, protective actions), and does not include remote operation.

Remote monitoring means non-actuating, supervisory observation of system status or telemetry that does not enable remote command, control, maintenance, configuration changes, or safety-critical actions.

Remote operation or remote maintenance means any offsite command, actuation, tuning, calibration, patching, configuration change, or control action that can affect reactor safety, security, power generation, or protective functions.

4.17.2 Remote Monitoring Architecture Requirements

If remote monitoring is proposed or employed, it shall be implemented using an architecture that prevents any inbound command, actuation, configuration change, maintenance action, or control pathway into safety-critical, security-relevant, or operational control systems. At a minimum:

a. Remote monitoring interfaces shall be logically and physically segmented from reactor protection, control, and safety systems.

b. Inbound connectivity to safety-critical, security-relevant, or operational control systems is prohibited except where expressly authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer and only under Government-initiated, time-bounded, logged, monitored, and Government-terminable access.

c. Offerors shall describe interface boundaries, data types shared, and the safeguards used to enforce monitoring-only behavior (e.g., unidirectional gateways or equivalent technical controls).

4.18 Radiation Dose Requirements

Public exposure limits shall comply with 10 CFR 20.1301.

Occupational dose limits shall comply with 10 CFR 20.1201.

Mobile transport configurations shall meet public dose limits under 10 CFR 20.1301.

4.19 Electromagnetic Protection Requirements

The system shall meet MIL-STD-464 (series), Sections 5.4–5.6 for HEMP, IEMI, and lightning-related environments.

4.20 Transport Configuration Requirements

Mobile configuration shall comply with DOT 23 CFR Part 658 (T) and be compatible with a standard 53-foot trailer (O).

A Type B (or equivalent) certified transport package is required.

Transport radiation exposure must meet 10 CFR 20.1301 limits.

4.21 Physical Security Requirements

The system shall implement physical protection equivalent to 10 CFR 73 performance requirements, scaled appropriately for mobile and transportable modes.

Contractor shall provide security boundary layouts for both modes.

4.22 Decontamination and Decommissioning

Non-core irradiated material shall be removed or qualified for unrestricted release within 2 years after termination of power production.

Core material shall be removed within 5 years unless otherwise approved by the Federal Government.

4.23 Microgrid Local Dispatch

Electricity generated by the microreactor shall be controlled and dispatched locally.

Remote dispatch or remote load shedding is not permitted without DHS authorization.

4.24 – Secure Operations, Protection, and Lifecycle Support (OPTIONAL CLIN 0005)

The Contractor shall implement and maintain appropriate security, protection, and operational controls necessary to safeguard systems, facilities, information, personnel, and activities associated with performance under this contract. Such controls shall be commensurate with the sensitivity, criticality, and national-security implications of the work and shall be maintained throughout the period of performance.

4.24.1 Integrated Security and Protection Controls

The Contractor shall establish and sustain a system of integrated physical, cyber, radiological, and operational protection measures sufficient to prevent unauthorized access, misuse, disruption, or compromise of the microreactor system and associated infrastructure.

Security controls shall:

• Be embedded in system design, deployment, and operational procedures

• Support operation at sensitive federal facilities and continuity-of-operations environments

• Be compatible with Government-provided protective forces and access controls

• Not rely on commercial utility security assumptions unless expressly approved by the Government

4.24.2 Information, Cyber, and Technology Security

The Contractor shall protect all sensitive technical, operational, and system information generated, accessed, or maintained under this contract from unauthorized disclosure, modification, or loss.

Cybersecurity and information-protection measures shall be consistent with applicable DHS, DOE, and federal critical-infrastructure protection standards and shall support continued safe operation in degraded or disconnected network environments.

4.24.3 Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Restrictions and Support

4.24.3.1 Prohibition on Remote and Autonomous Operations

Remote, autonomous, or vendor-controlled operation or maintenance of the reactor system is prohibited.

Specifically:

• The Contractor shall not perform remote operation, remote control, or autonomous decision-making affecting reactor safety, security, or power generation.

• The Contractor shall not deploy autonomous maintenance, self-directing control systems, or AI-driven operational decision functions without explicit Government authorization.

• The Contractor shall not retain persistent remote access to operational, safety-critical, or security-relevant systems.

4.24.3.2 Authorized Support Model

The Contractor may provide non-autonomous, human-in-the-loop technical support only under conditions approved by the Government, which may include:

• Onsite Contractor support personnel

• Time-limited, Government-initiated remote advisory support for diagnostics or analysis

• Data access limited to non-safety-critical information, subject to Government controls

All support activities shall be conducted in a manner that preserves Government control, accountability, and operational authority at all times.

4.24.4 Sustainment and Lifecycle Management

The Contractor shall support lifecycle sustainment of the system, including maintenance planning, configuration management, logistics, fuel management, and end-of-life handling, in a manner that maintains system security and does not introduce unauthorized access or control pathways.

4.24.5 Concealment and Operational Discretion

The Contractor shall take reasonable measures to limit unnecessary visibility or disclosure of system characteristics, operational status, or mission significance, consistent with deployment at high-consequence federal facilities.

4.24.6 Compliance and Government Oversight

The Contractor shall provide documentation sufficient to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of this task. The Government reserves the right to assess, approve, or restrict Contractor support methods to ensure mission assurance, security, and continuity.

5. EXPECTED OUTCOMES

The acquisition of a transportable and mobile microreactor system shall result in outcomes that materially improve DHS mission resilience, continuity, emergency response capability, and national preparedness. The expected outcomes define how the delivered system must enhance homeland security operations and enable future DHS and interagency energy resilience missions.

5.1 A Fully Functional Dual-Mode Microreactor Capability

DHS shall receive a microreactor system that:

• Performs as a transportable long-duration power asset for critical DHS facilities.

• Performs as a mobile power asset for emergency response, disaster recovery, and expeditionary missions.

• Can be redeployed multiple times with minimal civil works and minimal downtime.

This outcome is foundational: DHS must receive a single system capable of both modes.

5.2 FOAK Operational Power delivery for DHS Missions by December 2027

DHS shall achieve a mission-ready microreactor capable of:

• Providing reliable, long-duration baseload and microgrid-forming power.

• Powering critical operations during grid outages, disasters, or national contingencies.

• Enhancing infrastructure resilience at pre-determined fixed federal facility and other priority sites.

This outcome ensures DHS meets its strategic objective for resilient energy by 2028.

5.3 Demonstrated Safe and Autonomous Reactor Operations

DHS shall obtain a system proven to:

• Operate autonomously with minimal human supervision.

• Respond automatically to off-normal and emergency conditions.

• Maintain radiological safety in both transportable and mobile modes.

• Provide operational predictability for high-consequence facilities.

Autonomous operation is limited to local, onboard control functions and does not include remote or vendor-controlled operations.

This outcome ensures safety and reliability in all DHS operating environments.

5.4 Successful Prototype Demonstration

DHS shall receive validated prototype data demonstrating:

• Criticality performance

• Thermal, neutronic, and structural model accuracy

• Electrical generation at design output

• Autonomous control reliability

• Safety margins for mobile and transportable modes

The expected outcome is a validated system design ready for FOAK manufacturing.

5.5 FOAK Delivery and Commissioning at a DHS Site

DHS shall receive a FOAK microreactor unit that:

• Is fully licensed or authorized for federal demonstration

• Achieves Type B (or equivalent) transport certification

• Integrates successfully into a DHS microgrid

• Completes commissioning and operational readiness tests

• Enters DHS initial operational capability

This outcome establishes the first operational microreactor for homeland security purposes.

5.6 NOAK Fleet Production and Delivery

DHS shall receive additional microreactor units on the schedule defined:

• Units 2–5 by July 1, 2028

• Units 6–10 by December 31, 2028

Expected outcomes for NOAK production:

• Reduced manufacturing cost

• Increased production efficiency

• Standardized installation and deployment procedures

• Repeatable operational performance across the fleet

This outcome provides DHS and interagency partners a scalable national resilience capability.

5.7 Regulatory Compliance and Licensing Success

DHS shall receive:

• A complete Preliminary Safety Analysis Report and licensing package

• Regulator acceptance of safety analyses

• Completed FOAK licensing enabling 2028 deployment

• A licensing framework extendable to NOAK units

The outcome is a licensed, safe, and regulatory-compliant system viable for federal deployment.

5.8 Secure System Capable of Operating in High-Threat Environments

DHS shall obtain a system that:

• Meets federal physical security requirements

• Meets cybersecurity requirements (DHS 4300A/B and NRC RG 5.71)

• Integrates with DHS Security Operations Centers

• Maintains safety under attempted cyber or physical compromise

• Supports secure movement across modes and sites

This outcome ensures the system can operate in contested or degraded environments.

5.9 Seamless Integration with DHS Microgrids and Infrastructure

The system shall:

• Provide stable microgrid-forming power

• Support islanding, black-start, and load-following

• Integrate with DHS electrical protection systems

• Enable resilient power beyond diesel or grid dependency

The outcome is a transformative leap in DHS energy resilience.

5.10 Comprehensive Training, Documentation, and Operational Support

DHS shall receive:

• Full operator, security, and emergency response training

• Complete system documentation and operational manuals

• Integrated cybersecurity and physical security plans

• A minimum of 12 months of initial operational support

This outcome ensures DHS personnel can safely operate and maintain the system.

5.11 Future Expansion Path for National Preparedness

By delivering a dual-mode microreactor capability, the program shall:

• Provide a template for national microreactor deployment

• Enable expansion to other DHS components and federal agencies

• Establish a manufacturing base for future NOAK orders

• Serve as a cornerstone for resilient federal infrastructure

The outcome is a durable strategic capability supporting long-term national resilience.

6. PERFORMANCE METRICS & SUCCESS CRITERIA

DHS will evaluate contractor performance using measurable, outcome-based metrics that determine whether the system meets operational, safety, regulatory, schedule, and mission requirements. These performance metrics ensure that all vendors are evaluated on clear, consistent standards aligned to DHS mission needs.

The success criteria defined below apply across prototype, FOAK, and NOAK phases and are tied to milestone payments as established in the performance criteria.

6.1 Dual-Mode Deployment Metrics

Metric Success Criteria

Transportable capability

System installs at a fixed DHS site, meets all civil/interface requirements, and operates for long-duration missions.

Mobile capability System deploys with minimal site prep and demonstrates safe, secure, full-power operation in a mobile environment.

Redeployment System can transition between sites within the vendor-proposed timeframe without hardware modification.

Success Requirement: Both modes must be demonstrated; single-mode solutions are non-compliant.

6.2 Prototype Performance Metrics

Metric Success Criteria

Criticality achievement Prototype reaches stable criticality on schedule (January 1, 2027).

Power generation Prototype produces electrical power at design output (June 30, 2027).

Autonomous operations

Automated startup/shutdown sequences validated; automated safety responses verified.

Data fidelity Prototype results validate neutronic, thermal, mechanical, and control system models.

Success Requirement: All prototype milestones must meet acceptance criteria for DHS to authorize FOAK production. Prototype must pass all criticality tests to release the 15% milestone tranche.

6.3 FOAK Performance Metrics

Manufacturing FOAK fabrication meets QA standards and manufacturing readiness level.

Licensing progress Regulator acceptance of FOAK licensing package with safety-critical RAIs resolved.

Delivery FOAK delivered to DHS by December 31, 2027.

Commissioning FOAK integrates with DHS microgrid and completes commissioning tests.

Operational readiness DHS declares FOAK operationally ready for mission use.

Success Requirement: FOAK must pass all commissioning tests to release the 35% milestone tranche.

6.4 NOAK Performance Metrics

Phase 1 (Units 2–5) Delivered by July 1, 2028 with QA improvements and cost reduction.

Phase 2 (Units 6–10) Delivered by December 31, 2028 with repeatable production performance.

Fleet consistency All units demonstrate comparable performance, safety, and reliability.

Manufacturing maturity Evidence of efficiencies, stable supply chain, and improved cost curve.

Success Requirement: NOAK units must be delivered on schedule to maintain program continuity and to release the 40% milestone tranche.

6.5 Electrical Integration & Power Quality Metrics

Microgrid integration Successful black-start, islanding, synchronization, and steady-state operation.

Power quality Voltage, frequency, and harmonics meet IEEE 1547 and DHS specifications.

Load-following System responds dynamically to DHS load profiles and transitions.

Control system integration Real-time monitoring and secure command/control validated.

Success Requirement: System must demonstrate stable power quality under all operational modes.

6.6 Safety & Regulatory Metrics

Safety analyses PSAR and supporting documents accepted by regulators.

Risk margins Reactor demonstrates stable operation across all safety envelopes.

Transport safety Type B (or equivalent) certification achieved.

Environmental compliance EA completed with no findings preventing deployment.

Success Requirement: Licensing progress must align with 2028 deployment.

6.7 Security & Cybersecurity Metrics

Cybersecurity System meets DHS 4300A/B and NRC RG 5.71; penetration tests passed.

Physical security Meets requirements for both mobile and transportable modes.

Insider threat Robust insider threat mitigation program implemented.

Secure transport End-to-end chain-of-custody and monitoring demonstrated.

Success Requirement: Security systems must be validated before FOAK commissioning.

6.8 Schedule Performance Metrics

Prototype schedule Milestones achieved within allowable variance.

FOAK delivery Delivered by December 2027.

NOAK deliveries Waves delivered on or ahead of schedule.

IMS control Critical path maintained; contractor provides recovery plan if variance occurs.

Success Requirement: Schedule credibility is maintained to ensure mission alignment.

6.9 Documentation, Training & Support Metrics

Training DHS personnel fully trained for operational use.

Documentation Technical, licensing, security, and O&M documents complete and accepted.

Initial support Vendor provides 12 months of operational support post-commissioning.

Success Requirement: DHS achieves full operational capability with FOAK.

6.10 Mission & Strategic Impact Metrics

Resilience impact DHS demonstrates improved energy resilience at critical sites.

Emergency capability Mobile mode supports FEMA/DHS deployments.

Sustainability System reduces reliance on diesel-based systems.

Scalability Architecture supports fleet expansion and future national resilience missions.

Success Requirement: The system enhances DHS resilience and national preparedness.

7. CONSTRAINTS & ASSUMPTIONS

This section defines the operational, regulatory, schedule, technical, and programmatic constraints and assumptions that govern the microreactor acquisition. Vendors must structure their proposals, designs, development pathways, licensing approaches, and schedules in alignment with these constraints.

7.1 Schedule Constraints

Mandatory Deployment Deadline

• The microreactor system must be mission-ready by December 2028.

• This constraint governs prototype, FOAK, licensing, manufacturing, integration, and commissioning schedules.

Prototype Schedule Milestones

• Prototype criticality by January 1, 2027.

• Prototype electrical generation by June 30, 2028.

NOAK Production Deadlines

• Units 2–5 delivered by July 1, 2028.

• Units 6–10 delivered by December 31, 2028.

These dates are firm DHS mission constraints and not contractor optional.

7.2 Dual-Mode Deployment Constraints

• The system must perform in both transportable and mobile modes.

• A single-mode solution will not be accepted.

• Mobile-mode deployment must require minimal site preparation.

• Transportable deployment must support multi-year operation at fixed facilities.

Assumption: Vendors will design the reactor, shielding, controls, and safety systems to satisfy both configurations without redesign.

7.3 Licensing & Regulatory Constraints

Regulatory Pathway

• Licensing may proceed under NRC Part 50/52, DOE demonstration authority, or a hybrid approach.

• Vendors must propose defensible licensing strategies aligned with the December 2028 objective.

Safety Analysis Deliverables

• A complete PSAR is required.

• Hazard and accident analyses must support both deployment modes.

• Emergency planning assumptions must be achievable at DHS sites.

Transport Certification

• System must achieve Type B (or equivalent) certification for transport of fuel and reactor modules.

Assumption: Vendors will engage early with NRC/DOE and maintain continuous communication to reduce licensing risk.

7.4 Technical & Performance Constraints

Autonomous Operation

• System must support autonomous, multi-year operation with minimal intervention.

Microgrid Compatibility

• System must operate in black-start, islanding, and grid-forming modes.

• Must comply with IEEE 1547/2030 performance standards.

Safety

• Inherent/passive safety is required; long-duration cooling must not depend on operator actions.

• System must remain safe under mobile transport shock and vibration.

Fuel

• Vendor must demonstrate a viable fuel supply plan (prototype → FOAK → NOAK).

• HALEU or other NRC-approvable fuel is assumed.

7.5 Security Constraints

Cybersecurity

• Must comply with DHS 4300A/B and NRC RG 5.71.

• Secure remote monitoring and command/control is required.

• OT systems must be segmented and protected against cyber intrusion.

• The system be protected from external electromagnetic interference or effects as specified in MIL-STD- 464 (series) section 5.4 – 5.6.

Physical Security

• Must comply with federal nuclear security expectations for both deployment modes.

• Vendor must design scalable security solutions suitable for fixed-site and mobile operations.

Assumption: DHS will provide site-specific security posture and protective forces at deployment locations.

7.6 Environmental & NEPA Constraints

• System must support completion of a NEPA Environmental Assessment.

• Environmental impacts (thermal, radiological, ecological, cultural) must be within expected limits.

• System must operate across diverse climate and environmental conditions (snow, seismic, wind, heat).

Assumption: DHS will lead the NEPA process with contractor-provided technical input.

7.7 Manufacturing & Supply Chain Constraints

• Vendor must demonstrate manufacturing readiness consistent with FOAK and NOAK schedules.

• Long-lead items must be identified early and incorporated into the Integrated Master Schedule.

• Supply chain robustness is required to avoid schedule slippage.

Assumption: Vendor will maintain multiple supplier pathways where feasible to reduce risk.

7.8 Transport & Redeployment Constraints

• Reactor modules must be transportable via road, rail, and maritime pathways (air if feasible).

• Transport shock, vibration, and environmental loads must be included in system design.

• Redeployment must be executable with limited specialized equipment.

Assumption: DHS will coordinate with federal and state authorities for transport routing and security escort requirements.

7.9 Government-Furnished Information (GFI) & Support

The following are assumed:

• DHS will provide site data, microgrid interface information, and mission load profiles.

• DHS will facilitate regulatory engagement (NRC, DOE, DOT).

• DHS will support security integration with SOC and onsite forces.

• DHS will provide NEPA oversight and coordinate with interagency partners.

7.10 Contractor Responsibilities Assumptions

It is assumed that:

• Vendors will propose complete solutions meeting all performance outcomes.

• Vendors will maintain responsibility for licensing, safety case generation, and certification.

• Vendors will maintain configuration control and QA systems.

• Vendors will support DHS test planning, evaluation, and commissioning.

8. GOVERNMENT ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and relevant operational components, will provide program oversight, site information, regulatory coordination, and mission integration support to ensure successful execution of this acquisition. The Government’s responsibilities are outlined below.

8.1 Program Management and Oversight

DHS will:

• Provide overarching program governance, including strategic direction and milestone verification.

• Conduct monthly, quarterly, and annual technical reviews.

• Validate milestone completion reports before authorizing payment.

• Ensure coordination across DHS components, including FEMA, CISA, FLETC, and operational sites.

• Manage the Integrated Product Team (IPT) including representatives from DOE/NNSA, NRC, DOT, and national laboratories.

8.2 Site Access, Data, and Infrastructure Information

DHS will furnish:

• Site-specific technical data (geotechnical reports, environmental conditions, security constraints).

• Microgrid design information, electrical one-lines, and load profiles.

• Access for site surveys, integration planning, and commissioning activities.

• Operational requirements for continuity, emergency response, and mission continuity at designated sites.

DHS retains responsibility for site security, emergency response coordination, and facility access control.

8.3 Regulatory Engagement and Support

• Coordinate engagement with NRC, DOE, NNSA, DOT, and other regulatory bodies.

• Support pre-application and licensing discussions.

• Provide letters of intent, mission justification, or endorsements required for regulatory processes.

• Lead the NEPA Environmental Assessment process with contractor-provided technical input.

The Contractor remains responsible for technical documentation, analyses, and regulatory submittals.

8.4 Security Integration

• Provide overarching security posture and requirements for each deployment site.

• Integrate contractor physical and cyber security planning into DHS protective systems.

• Coordinate with DHS Security Operations Centers (SOCs) and federal protective forces.

• Supply Government-furnished security monitoring interfaces where appropriate.

Contractors remain responsible for system-level cybersecurity and nuclear system security design.

8.5 Transport Coordination

• Support coordination with federal and state authorities for reactor transport routing.

• Provide security escort support as required for Type B (or equivalent) shipments.

• Coordinate interagency transport logistics for FOAK and NOAK deliveries.

The Contractor must still prepare transport packages and meet all regulatory certifications.

8.6 Environmental Compliance Support

• Serve as the lead federal agency for NEPA compliance.

• Coordinate interagency environmental review and stakeholder engagement.

• Provide oversight for environmental modeling, site analyses, and supporting documentation.

Contractors must supply all required technical content for NEPA documentation.

8.7 Testing, Evaluation, and Commissioning Support

• Oversee system-level integration testing and verification activities.

• Provide site access and operational personnel for commissioning.

• Validate FOAK commissioning results and operational readiness.

Contractors are responsible for executing tests, providing procedures, and delivering evidence of compliance.

8.8 Training, Manuals, and Operational Support Transition

• Supply personnel to participate in training.

• Review and approve training materials and operational documentation.

• Coordinate long-term operational planning for FOAK and NOAK deployments.

Contractors are responsible for developing and delivering training, manuals, and initial support services.

8.9 Communications and Interagency Coordination

• Communicate program progress with Congress, OMB, and federal partners.

• Maintain transparency with DOE/NNSA and NRC.

• Coordinate interagency interest in NOAK units and broader microreactor deployment.

Contractors may be asked to support technical briefings or provide subject-matter expertise.

8.10 Government-Furnished Information (GFI)

DHS may provide:

• Site drawings and layouts

• Mission electrical load profiles

• Security boundary maps

• Historical environmental and safety data

• Microgrid protection settings

• Government cybersecurity requirements

The Contractor must notify DHS promptly if additional GFI is required.

8.11 Clarification of Government vs. Contractor Responsibilities

To avoid ambiguity:

• DHS is responsible for mission requirements, oversight, environmental leadership, and site access.

• Contractors are responsible for system design, safety case creation, licensing, manufacturing, testing, delivery, training, integration, and dual-mode performance.

• DHS does not assume responsibility for vendor schedule delays, licensing shortfalls, or manufacturing issues.

This allocation of responsibilities is central to the FFP milestone-based construct.

9. DELIVERABLES SUMMARY

The Contractor shall deliver all products, services, demonstrations, analyses, and support necessary to achieve the objectives outlined in this SOO. While the Statement of Work (SOW) specifies detailed prescriptive requirements, this section summarizes the categories of deliverables DHS expects under the multi-award competitive acquisition.

Deliverables shall support DHS’s mission to obtain a transportable and mobile microreactor system capable of operational deployment by December 2027, with subsequent NOAK production in 2028.

9.1 Program Management Deliverables

The Contractor shall deliver:

• Program Management Plan (PMP)

• Integrated Master Schedule (IMS)

• Monthly status reports

• Quarterly program review packages

• Annual execution assessments

• Configuration management and change control documentation

• Risk register and mitigation reports

• Quality Assurance (QA) program documentation

9.2 Technical Design Deliverables

• System design baseline and supporting analyses

• Digital twin / modeling files

• Engineering drawings, schematics, and specifications

• Dual-mode deployment system architecture

• Interface Control Documents (ICDs)

• Safety classification of SSCs

• Prototype design package

• FOAK and NOAK configuration packages

9.3 Licensing, Safety, and Regulatory Deliverables

• Licensing Strategy

• Preliminary Safety Analysis Report (PSAR)

• Hazard and accident analysis reports

• Environmental input for NEPA processes

• Physical and cybersecurity plans

• Regulatory engagement materials and technical responses

• Type B (or equivalent) transport certification documentation

9.4 Prototype Demonstration Deliverables

• Prototype fabrication evidence

• Prototype criticality test report

•…