Industry Day Question and Answer - 155MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability_02 February 2026.pdf

Number Question Government Answer

If the approach is to utilize a robotics pick and place to load the parts on, there would need to be some form of cart where the arm would go grab it. Is that something the contractor would be responsible for?

Yes, handling the parts would be part of the line. Moving the parts to the location would not be part of the line.

How much automation or new type technologies is the United States Government (USG) looking for?

How much human interaction is anticipated for this process?

The USG is open to automation as long as it meets the requirements of 30,000 rounds/year and the criteria for throughput rate and inspection requirements. There would need to be a prove-out plan created by the contractor, approved by the USG, and conducted by the contractor.

If we proposed a fully 100% automation line compared to a line that has some manual work, there will be a price difference. Can you provide any clarification on how much automation you are looking for?

Any insertion of technology or automation will be evaluated in accordance with (IAW) the source sought criteria to make a public interest determination.

From data collection (automation or manually), is the Government looking for Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems?

All contractors shall provide a breakout of cost to provide a SCADA (including a room to station the equipment); It will be at the discretion of the USG to enact this portion of the scope.

5 Does the Government have a specific SCADA software that needs to be used?

The USG is familiar with Rockwell/Allen Bradley systems, but is open to the best solution for this process.

What is the USG preference for HMI (Human Machine Interface)/PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)? Allen Bradley, Siemens, etc. or no preference?

No preference but BGAD has experience with Rockwell/Allen Bradley.

Does the USG have a preference on process control platforms (Siemens, Allen Bradley, Rockwell, etc.)?

No preference but BGAD has experience with Rockwell/Allen Bradley.

8 Would the Government want a centralized control center for this requirement?

All contractors shall provide a breakout of cost to provide a SCADA (including a room to station the equipment); It will be at the discretion of the USG to enact this portion of the scope.

9 What is the Information Technology (IT)/internet availability at each Building?

The contractor will need to bring in its own hot spot for the construction portion. There is no requirement to have this equipment link with the USG network. Any network linkages will need to adhere to Attachment 0012, Cyber Security requirements for Department of War (DoW) automation.

Is there any consideration in this current project for Artificial Intelligence (AI)? And if not, is that something we look at down the road?

Responses can include modern technologies that enhance production, safety, and quality. Any network linkages will need to adhere to Attachment 0012, Cyber Security requirements for DOW automation.

Are there cybersecurity issues that need to be addressed on the front end of this going into it if using

AI?

The contractor will need to bring in its own hot spot for the construction portion. There is no requirement to have this equipment link with the USG network. Any network linkages will need to adhere to Attachment 0012, Cyber Security requirements for DOW automation.

12 Who is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)?

AHJ for structural changes to the Building is Blue Grass Army Depot (BGAD) Department of Public Works (DPW).

AHJ for fire codes is local county through BGAD DPW.

AHJ for Explosive Site Safety Plan (ESSP) is Department of Defense Explosive Safety Board (DDESB), through BGAD Safety and United States Army Technical Center for Explosive Safety

(USATCES).

13 Who is the Public Works Director (PWD) that's handling the facilities? James Sivley, Chief of Facilities Engineering at BGAD.

14 Who would approve a structural analysis? It would go through DPW. We have a structural engineer on site that would work with you.

15 As far as fire Marshall Code, is that planned to be handled in house with the local PWD? AHJ for fire codes is through BGAD DPW and Fire Department.

Are you using the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) on this requirement or who is being used for this requirement on the administrative side (technical approval, structural revisions, etc.)?

No, Product Manager (PdM) Precision Attack Cannon Munitions (PACM) and Joint Munitions Command (JMC) are responsible for engineering oversight. Facility changes would need to be approved through BGAD's DPW.

Does the reviewing authority have a Design Guide to use for Design Submissions?

How long would the review period be?

There is not a design guide that is used for design submissions other than the Unified Facility Criteria (UFC). Review period typically is 2-3 weeks.

For internal modifications to the existing Buildings, what is the process for obtaining site-specific approvals (e.g., base civil engineer, installation facilities office, safety, environmental)?

All site-specific approvals will need to go through BGAD DPW.

Site has a Title 5 Permit and any modifications will be worked with BGAD DPW Environmental Group.

Please confirm that there will be no application required by the contractor?

Modification to BGAD’s Title V Permit may need to be submitted and coordination with the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection will need to be initiated. Contractor will need to complete forms and coordinate with BGAD up to the JMC Group.

Who or what group(s) within Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems (PM CAS) have the ability to stop or approve work being executed?

Army Contracting Command-Rock Island (ACC-RI) Contracting Officer has authority to start/stop work under contract.

Has there been any pre-planning or interface for the DDESB or site planning? Any commitment for turnaround on when those will occur?

No, DDESB has not been consulted on this project. Some preliminary safety analysis was performed that resulted in Buildings 550 and 562 being choose as candidates for this project.

The contractor is encouraged to work the DDESB requirements through BGAD safety as early in the project as possible.

22 Who is responsible for approval of the ESSP?

The ESSP will be coordinated through Jeremiah Lewis at BGAD, up through USATCES with final approval from DDESB.

23 Are there any structural issues with the Buildings? There are no known structural issues with either Building.

24 Are there any deficiencies with the Buildings that do not currently work?

Compressed air systems likely need to be updated or replaced if utilized. Building 550 has a 50 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) compressor with about 19,500 hours. Building 562 has a 100 CFM compressor with about 5200 hours. Given the age of the existing systems, replacement compressors must be included in Not-to-Exceed (NTE) pricing if compressed air is required. If compressed air is required for Load, Assemble, Pack (LAP) Line operations, it would be required to replace the compressors along with other components of the compressed air system (accumulation tank, drier, etc.) as well as consideration for a redundant compressor.

25 If modifications are needed, who is responsible for doing the modifications?

Modification such as clean out of loose debris, and items not fixed to the Building structure, BGAD is responsible for removal.

Existing Items installed/fixed (Paint Booths, Monorail, etc.) to the Building structure, that are not being used for this effort, are the responsibility of BGAD for removal.

Modifications to the Building structure are the responsibility of the contractor.

Modifications to the Building are approved by BGAD DPW and Safety with input from DDESB for ESSP purposes where applicable.

For modifications that are required by the contractor, the contractor can choose to enter a Public- Private-Partnership (P3) agreement with BGAD to utilize BGAD to assist with or perform modifications.

There aren’t any limitations on Building modifications as long as all modifications meet structural and safety requirements.

Industry Day Question & Answer (Q&A) 155MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability

02 February 2026

To make changes to Buildings and structures (removing of bays), is there any information on the process for environmental assessments?

The Contractor will need to coordinate with BGAD DPW regarding all environmental assessments on a case by case basis. To date, all asbestos and Printed Circuit Board transformers have been removed. Lead has been encapsulated by layers of paint but would anticipate encountering prior lead paint if cutting or removing any walls.

All walls are load-bearing and must be included in engineering analysis and designs for any proposed removal.

USACE completed an Environmental Condition of Property (ECP) Report on Building 550 provided as Attachment 0011 - Environmental Condition of Property Report - Building 550. An ECP Report has not been done on Building 562.

27 Is there any limit to the remodel of the existing Buildings? Is it going to be a retrofit or a strip down?

No limit placed by this project. However, all facility changes would need to be approved through BGAD's DPW.

28 Are there any restrictions structurally from taking down any walls completely?

Facility changes would need to be approved through BGAD's DPW and will require a structural analysis.

Does the USG have information on existing load limits in the Building, deluge systems, and existing blast walls?

Deluge was installed in 2015 and a digital manual is available. The USG is reviewing availability of foundation and structural drawings and will provide them if available.

30 Do you know the thickness of the foundations of those Buildings?

The USG is reviewing availability of foundation and structural drawings and will provide them if available.

31 How thick are the floors and blast rating for the walls?

The current blast walls are 12” thick. The USG is reviewing availability of foundation and structural drawings and will provide them if available.

32 What is the existing bay explosive load limits? Not applicable - current limits are only established for the Buildings.

33 Is there lightning protection on the Buildings? Yes.

34 Is there a cross section of each Building's foundations available? The USG is reviewing availability of foundation and structural drawings.

35 It was stated there was 50,000 lbs. from each Building for explosive weights. Is that Hazard Class 1.1? Yes, Hazard Class Division 1.1.

We understand the existing NEW load limits for each of the Buildings is 50,000lbs of 1.1 explosive. Is our understanding correct? Is there an existing Safety Site Plan the USG can provide?

Correct, the load limits for each building is 50,000lbs of 1.1 explosive.

BGAD Safety Office is point of contact and will provide existing data. There is no current permit for these Buildings. BGAD Explosive Safety will submit a preliminary Explosives Site Safety Plan to DDESB for current conditions. When a contractor is chosen we will work with them, JMC, USATCES and DDESB in creation of the final Site Plan. USG has found that bringing together all approval parties from the start significantly reduces final approval review time line at each step.

Are these Buildings going to be available for construction activities? Will there be limitations of who can go through and conduct operations?

All Workers shall be vetted to access the restricted area. There will not be a fence inside the restricted area that workers are limited to. However, the workers should ingress and egress directly to the restricted gate (i.e., not fenced off, but the Buildings will be available).

Would a temporary exterior structure be acceptable outside the Buildings? Potentially staying beyond the construction work?

Temporary exterior structure is allowed to exist for the duration of the project.

If the contractor would like to leave this temporary structure, DDESB will need to approve.

39 Do we need to create a controlled limited area for the construction folks within the GOGO? No.

Are site security, surveillance, perimeter fencing, etc. requirements needed to address national security concerns?

No additional site security, surveillance, nor perimeter fencing is necessary.

What are the restrictions on construction deliveries? (time of day, how far in advance do deliveries need scheduling, who approves the deliveries)

Typical truck deliveries are handled Monday - Thursday, 06:30 - 17:00. Drivers will be vetted through BGAD security.

Do sufficient utilities exist on BGAD to support this facility? Are the utility availabilities at each individual Building?

Attachment 0002 - 155MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability has been updated to include current available utilities for each building.

43 Is there any construction use laydown area available independent from the proposed site?

Laydown areas for equipment and materials can be assumed. Post award, Laydown areas will identified.

If there are going to be different types of ammunitions built there, does the high speed deluge need to change position for each ammunition?

Deluge in both Buildings are fully functional and tested annually. Depending on the contractor's manufacturing line solution, changes to the deluge may be needed if there are infrastructure changes.

Has the high speed deluge system been inspected recently? Are you looking to replace it or modify it?

Does the high speed deluge need to be flexible as well?

Deluge in both Buildings are fully functional and tested annually. Depending on the contractor's manufacturing line solution, changes to the deluge may be needed if there are infrastructure changes.

If more power is needed, other than what power available on the grid now, is that something that could be available?

Yes, additional power can be available. The contractor will be responsible for including the cost of installing this additional power. The contractor will not be able to conduct this work, so a P3 will need to be set up with BGAD for installation of additional electric to be completed.

If contractor needed to utilize high voltage lines to add power capacity, is it known which lines can be tapped into?

Yes. High voltage lines exist to the immediate south of the Buildings.

How far in advance do utility outages need to be scheduled and approved for this site? Who approves the outage request?

Two weeks' notice to DPW to coordinate the power shut-off and approve the outage request.

49 Are there any existing cooling systems with Building? No, breakrooms have central heat and air, no machine cooling.

Do both Buildings have a small steam/hot water plants adjacent to the Buildings? Is there any information on the age of the systems in these plants and do they need to be replaced?

Boilers, boiler management, and boiler heating is managed by a separate contractor. The boilers only run during fall and winter season. There is no expectation for the boilers to be included in this requirement.

51 Is there a desire or requirement to go beyond just wet pipe fire suppression?

Presently, it is not anticipated that additional fire suppression will be required, but this may change depending on the selected production line design.

52 Is the fire suppression all currently operational or would it require upgrades? Yes, the fire suppression is currently operational.

Is there sufficient fire suppression flow and pressure in the water system to not require a fire pump for the fire suppression system?

There is sufficient flow, sprinkler systems are supplied by a 6" water main.

54 Is there anything available on air capacity or air plan?

Compressed air systems likely need to be updated or replaced if utilized. Building 550 has a 50 CFM compressor with about 19,500 hours. Building 562 has a 100 CFM compressor with about 5200 hours.

Given the age of the existing systems, replacement compressors must be included in NTE pricing if compressed air is required. If compressed air is required for LAP Line operations, it would be required to replace the compressors along with other components of the compressed air system (accumulation tank, drier, etc.) as well as consideration for a redundant compressor.

Have asbestos/lead paint been abated? Is there documentation of asbestos removal or lead-based paint?

All the asbestos has been abated. Remediation was completed for lead paint and has been encapsulated with nonleaded paint (if walls are opened up, then lead will be present). There is no documentation for the Asbestos removal or lead-based paint. Building 550 was built 20 January 1955 and Building 562 was built 11 July 1968.

56 Are there any other existing environmental factors that need to be considered for remediation?

USACE completed an ECP Report on Building 550 provided as Attachment 0011 - Environmental Condition of Property Report - Building 550 and did not find anything. An ECP Report has not been done on Building 562.

At the Building surface level, asbestos abatement has been performed in the past and lead paint has been encapsulated in the main portions of the Building. What exists within the structure and sealed portions of the Building are unknown. Recommend that respondents take in to account the date(s) these Buildings were constructed when making assumptions for what might be encountered during demolition and construction.

57 If we need to do any refurbishments on the Buildings, are there any hazards that might be present?

At the Building surface level, asbestos abatement has been performed in the past and Lead paint has been encapsulated in the main portions of the Building. What exists within the structure and sealed portions of the Building are unknown. Recommend taking the year of construction into account when making assumptions for what might be encountered during demolition and construction.

Has the USG performed a Site Safety Assessment on the intended site / Building where this LAP capability will be installed? If so, will this be published in the near term, potentially before the response date of the Sources Sought Notice?

A Site Safety Assessment has not been performed.

Would the contractor have to be concerned about any kind of disposal of any scrap or any contaminated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Disposal of these types of materials generated from the facility upgrades or equipment installation portion of this project will be the responsibility of the contractor.

Please share the status (Completed and will be shared, Required to be performed, Not Required) of the following studies:

- Environmental Baseline Study

- Site Investigation of contamination (soil / GH2O)

- Corrective Action Plan to take into site development consideration

- Hazardous Material Assessment(s)

- National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Environmental Assessment (EA) / Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

- Natural Resource Studies

- Cultural Resource Study

- Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)/ Munitions and Explosives of Concern (MEC) Study

- Other

The status is as follows with the understanding that the selected design may require a reassessment:

- Environmental Baseline Study - provided as an attachment

- Site Investigation of contamination (soil / GH2O) - Not required

- Corrective Action Plan to take into site development consideration - Not required

- Hazardous Material Assessment(s) - Not required

- NEPA - Required

- Natural Resource Studies - Not required

- Cultural Resource Study - Not required

- UXO/MEC Study - Not required

- Other - Not required

61 Will we get the environment reports done at BGAD?

The USG has uploaded the ECP report for Building 550 under the attachments section of the Sources Sought Notice, titled Attachment 0011 - Environmental Condition of Property Report - Building 550.

What intrinsically safe rating is needed for this process? Are there multiple ratings as the line progresses? If so, what are those ratings and their respective line segments?

System must be designed to maintain the building’s explosive safety posture as a hazardous environment – Class I, Division I group D and Class II, Division I groups E, F, and G – in accordance with NFPA 70. Components must be either properly enclosed or intrinsically safe to ensure the requirements of NFPA 70 are met.

Are there existing environmental permits in place that must be taken into consideration in the development/operation of the Cargo LAP facility?

There is an existing Title V permit.

If there is an existing permit, would it be necessary to go to the process to get a new or updated permit?

BGAD has an existing Title V air permit. Depending on the approach, it may be necessary to modify this permit.

Do you foresee any environmental issues that are going to require any type of permits coming out of this?

This will be dependent on the Contractor's response.

Will the USG assist the prime contractor with environmental permitting efforts or will the prime be acting independently on that effort? This question also applies to other compliance requirements involving federal/state Government approval.

Contractor should submit all Title V permit applications for review to BGAD Environmental. BGAD will submit the modification request to Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection (KDEP).

This can be expanded for all permitting applications. Contractor should have the lead and be able to provide necessary details and complete permit applications. This should be coordinated with BGAD in advance through an IPT type process. BGAD will be responsible for final submittal to KDEP as the permit owner. At this time, BGAD does not anticipate anything elaborate from a Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Air, Water or Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and anticipate that the most likely outcome is mod or addition for paint booth operations and surface prep.

From a site safety standpoint, are there any other constraints, be it physically or administratively, that are non-starters? Could some of these trigger another permit request?

There is no current permit for these Buildings. BGAD Explosive Safety will submit a preliminary Explosives Site Safety Plan to DDESB for current conditions. When a contractor is chosen we will work with them, JMC, USATCES and DDESB in creation of the final Site Plan. USG has found that bringing together all approval parties from the start significantly reduces final approval review time line at each step.

There are no non-starters per se. Everything will have to be assessed during evaluations of the submissions.

Historically, paint booths have been a challenge to environmentally permitted Buildings. If we were to propose anything that needed to change in the paid booth area, would we be required to either modify or have to submit a new environmental permit associated with that?

Any changes to the paint booth need to be brought to the attention of BGAD Environmental Office so they can capture the changes and see if it exceeds or alters what BGAD is currently permitted for.

Advanced notice needs to be given (2 weeks) to allow BGAD Environmental Office time to do its assessment and contact KDEP to address any changes.

Any assumptions included in responses need to be clearly identified to assist the USG in its evaluation.

If site work and road improvements are required, will stormwater permits and erosion and sediment control permits be required and, if so, who is the permitting agency?

Yes, DPW would help coordinate this. The permitting agency is KDEP.

70 Are there detailed as-built drawings available for the Buildings, to include materials of construction?

The USG is reviewing availability of foundation and structural drawings and will provide them if available.

To do any possible modifications to the Buildings, is it possible to get layouts of the Building locations and what is surrounding the area?

The USG has uploaded this under the attachments section of the Sources Sought Notice, titled Attachment 0009 - BGAD Buildings 550 and 562 Satellite.

Can we access a site map, showing proximity of the two production Buildings to other Buildings, infrastructure, or items that could potentially impact Quantity Distance (QD) arcs?

The USG has uploaded this under the attachments section of the Sources Sought Notice, titled Attachment 0009 - BGAD Buildings 550 and 562 Satellite.

There is a concrete pad that extends out the Building, can you provide the dimensions on the concrete pad around the Building?

The USG has uploaded this under the attachments section of the Sources Sought Notice, titled Attachment 0009 - BGAD Buildings 550 and 562 Satellite.

74 Are there as-builts in the drawing plans for electrical panels, etc.?

The USG has uploaded this under the attachments section of the Sources Sought Notice, titled Attachment 0010 - BGAD Building 560 and 562 Dimensions and Utilities.

Can the USG provide a layout drawing for estimated cable runs from the control room to inside the vault?

Layout for estimated cable runs will be dependent on contractor design.

76 What kind of redundancy plans exist right now for both Buildings? There is no redundancy plan currently.

Is there any consideration in this response for redundancy plans to the Buildings to continue operations if the existing structure goes down?

This is not part of the scope.

78 Are there any temporary works required to keep nearby projects or active facilities operational? No.

79 Can you confirm when the two Buildings (550 and 562) were built? Building 550 was built 20 January 1955 and Building 562 was built 11 July 1968.

What are the potential Buildings available for the line? Can we use both Buildings or is the USG’s preference to select only one Building?

One of the existing Buildings, 550 and/or 562, must be used or both. No preference on which Building.

81 Would the scope of this project include a new facility? No, we are going to use existing Buildings 550 and/or 562.

82 Other than the two Buildings listed, are there any other production Buildings available? No, not at this time.

Is it the USG’s desire for the selected Building for the LAP process to have the capability to be readily reconfigured to accommodate existing operations?

No.

84 Is the current operation in Building 562 going to end in the near future/interrupt potential design? Yes, the current operation in Building 562 will be ending early summer 2026.

85 When was the last active production activity in Building 550? The most recent production work was completed in Building 550 approximately 8 months ago.

86 Is there a list of what equipment that is onsite at BGAD that might be available for this program?

We do not have a list of equipment available. The equipment observed within the Buildings is available but IAW Attachment 0001 the contractor's response must demonstrate capability of designing and constructing manufacturing lines with an expected 25+ year lifecycle and equipment with an expected 20-year lifecycle with modern technologies.

87 Are the Government furnished conveyors available to be a part of the solution?

Existing equipment in the Buildings to include the conveyor system can be a part of the solution. The equipment observed within the Buildings is available, but IAW Attachment 0001 the contractor's response must demonstrate capability of designing and constructing manufacturing lines with an expected 25+ year lifecycle and equipment with an expected 20-year lifecycle with modern technologies.

88 Are there shipping docks at each Building?

There are concrete structures that exist for each Building annotated on Attachment 0009 - BGAD Building 550 and 562 Satellite. Building 550 has shipping docks but Building 562 does not and it is loaded from the ground.

89 Do the two conveyor belts go the full length of the Building?

Building 550 has an existing conveyor belt that goes the full length of the Building and is fully operational. Building 562 does not have a conveyor belt that goes the full length of the Building, the existing conveyor belt at 562 has been taken apart in the middle and is not currently operational. For Building 562, refer to Figure 2: Building 562 Floor Plan in Attachment 0002.

90 Are existing paint booths available to be used for this solution? Yes.

Will the contractor be responsible for clearing any old or abandon equipment from the facility that is affecting the deployment of our solution or will the Government?

Modification such as clean out of loose debris, and items not fixed to the Building structure, BGAD is responsible for removal.

Existing Items installed/fixed (Paint Booths, Monorail, etc.) to the Building structure, that are not being used for this effort, are the responsibility of BGAD for removal.

Modifications to the Building structure are the responsibility of the contractor.

Modifications to the Building are approved by BGAD DPW and Safety with input from DDESB for ESSP purposes where applicable.

For modifications that are required by the contractor, the contractor can choose to enter a P3 agreement with BGAD to utilize BGAD to assist with or perform modifications.

There aren’t any limitations on Building modifications as long as all modifications meet structural and safety requirements.

Buildings 550 and 562 have existing office, lunchroom, and restrooms. Are these required to be maintained in the final design?

Supervisor office, breakrooms, and bathrooms should still exist in each Building after the design. Final design will need to be approved by DDESB.

Are there any shared travel path constraints? Constraints due to the chemical weapons plant being decommissioned?

No.

Does the USG carry an existing explosive site plan for the existing BGAD site that this project can be "plugged into" or does it need to be developed from scratch?

There is no current permit for these Buildings. BGAD Explosive Safety will submit a preliminary Explosives Site Safety Plan to DDESB for current conditions. When a contractor is chosen we will work with them, JMC, USATCES and DDESB in creation of the final Site Plan. USG has found that bringing together all approval parties from the start significantly reduces final approval review time line at each step.

Does the USG intend to release the Technical Data Packages (TDP) for each of the round types intended to be LAP’d at BGAD?

TDPs will not be released. Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

96 Is XM1208 the primary projectile to be produced? XM1208 will be the first projectile produced.

97 How much detail on the XM1208 TDP is available to be shared?

TDPs will not be released. Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

98 Do we need to plan for more than one kit (different cargo configurations)?

Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

99 Are there identified specs that are required?

Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

100 What will be the main candidate for this line? Cargo rounds, these rounds will utilize pre-existing cargo kits.

101 Can it be assumed this is only for 155MM artillery projectiles? Yes.

102 What specific 155MM Cargo Projectiles is the USG anticipating to be LAP’d at this facility?

Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

It sounds like the main round is going to be cluster munitions, will this line also look at loading the smoke rounds or any of the ammunition rounds or will it all be AG containing payloads?

Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

Can we have a list of the existing cargo rounds you plan to use the line for? Different rounds will require different machines, layouts.

Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states the min/max for the new cargo rounds.

Do you have an ratio between the projectiles that need to be lapped? Is XM1208 going to be a major part of the 30,000 per year?

The requirement is to make 30,000 projectiles per year. No ratio at this time. The intent is to make the line flexible and able to LAP multiple cargo rounds.

When there are variations of the configuration of the 155MM, will that change how manufacturing is performed in the Building?

The manufacturing line should be flexible and set up to change to different cargo rounds. Design envelope is included which has ranges of the potential cargo kits that the line needs to meet.

107 Is the line expected to change much over time?

The manufacturing line should be flexible and set up to change to different cargo rounds. The USG expects inspections to change, but line should maintain flexibility.

108 How quick should the changeover be between products?

Requirement is to make 30,000 rounds per year at an 85% availability. 15% operational time for downtime and changeovers. The design should promote efficiency and minimize changeover time.

Is the USG wanting flexibility and agility to the point of being able to transition back and forth from current operations to 155MM Cargo LAP or just the flexibility to various configurations of 155MM Cargo Rounds?

Flexibility to various configurations of 155MM Cargo Rounds.

What is your expected surge capability? Is this required in one shift?

In terms of scalability of the project, do we need to see this as scalable beyond 30,000 rounds or is that pretty much the ceiling for an extended period of time?

30,000 projectiles per year. One shift is not a requirement; however, as identified in the Sources Sought Notice, planned operation efficiency is one of the Government's priorities.

At this time, it is 30,000 projectiles per year and we have not limited the shift counter. If you can complete the 30,000 within one shift, it would then allow surge capacity on the site.

111 What is the length of time that you consider a shift?

10 hours with the assumption of two 15-minutes breaks and a 10 minute break. (8.5 hours of work time).

112 What shift model would the facility operate at during surge capacity? BGAD shifts are 10 hours per day, 4 days per week.

113 How many working days per year does BGAD typically have? 197 working days, (4 days a week, minus 11 holidays).

114 There is 85% capability for the tolerance level, is that including downtime for maintenance or not? Requirement is to make 30,000 rounds per year at an 85% availability. This includes downtime.

115 What will be the production rate for loading, packing, and marking? 30,000 projectiles per year.

On a single shift basis working 240 days at a 85% OEE the loading line will need to have a cycle time of 1 shell every 3 minutes. Is this an acceptable pace to balance the rest of the systems?

The overall requirement is 30,000 rounds per year. Efficiency will be a factor in how the responses are evaluated.

117 What is the average time start to finish to complete one 155MM cartridge? This requirement is required to meet 30,000 rounds per year so the average time may vary.

118 Is the requirement to only establish one line for the 30,000 projectiles per year?

Responses can propose multiple parallel lines or single line as long as it addresses the requirement of 30,000 projectiles per year.

119 Is the 30,000 rounds per Building or one Building?

The requirement is 30,000 projectiles per year. It will be up to the contractor if they want to use one Building or both.

120 Is this going to be extended range? Are we going to be putting rocket motors on these? Attachment 0002 requires at least one Climate Control Bay (Less than 30 Relative Humidity (RH)).

121 Any Temperature and Humidity (T&H) requirements for the round/process? Attachment 0002 requires at least one Climate Control Bay (Less than 30RH).

122 Can magazines be used for storage?

For construction, lay down areas and storage sites for inert materials and equipment can be provided based on requirements. Post award, this will be discussed in more detail.

123 Will the munitions be pre-assemble and pre-packed? Yes, you will be receiving a cargo kit.

124 Is this a drop and play or is this a pressure load?

Pressure will typically be employed to "seat" each cargo kit and is referenced in Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability but it is not an interference fit.

125 Will it be possible to come up with new cargo line drawings? Page 13 of the slide deck has what could potentially be LAP-ed.

126 Can you explain the cargo kits?

They are cylinders. You will receive a cargo kit that you will have to push the contents of into a shell body. There are pressing requirements for seating each layer and then the entire "payload" prior to measurement for addition of shims and torque of the base.

127 Are there any hazards with the kit?

No, Safety Features of each projectile (and ultimate removal before manufacturing) will be accounted for outside the scope of work.

128 Are the kit dimensions available? Refer to Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability.

129 For 1208 projectiles, will the submunitions already be pressed? Cargo kits are fully done by the time you received them.

Can these shells, kits, and/or completed rounds be handled by electro-magnetic grippers? (we have a technology ready for implementation into a design if it is safe to use this technology around the live munitions)

No, magnets are not allowed to be used.

Would you consider any kind of illumination type mixing/pressing HE as a positive for this facility?

Would that need to be considered for any future work or is it simply cargos are going to get put into this and move on?

The Sources Sought Notice focuses on cargo kits that are already assemble and provided to the LAP line.

132 Will all the materials we will be dealing with, already have been accepted by the Government?

The line is meant for manufacturing. As far as incoming inspection, that will be the responsibility of whoever the prime contractor is managing the actual item being produced.

133 Does there need to be a staging area for potential incoming non-conforming material?

If your design has a capability to identify and segregate non-conforming material, please identify a location within the Building where this material can be collected during production. Otherwise, it is safe to assume that all inbound materials will be qualified and accepted prior to being received at the production site.

Are there range of safeties that could be used by the warhead module that we would be responsible for?

No.

What are your expectations for the cargo - should it be a continuous line that is capable of producing all types simultaneously, or that will be a setup between the kinds of cargo that will be involved within in the line?

Quick change over, but the turnover is not yet defined.

136 Do you want this cargo round to be one kind of them or will there be a few kinds of projectile bodies?

155MM "envelope" is defined, but actual designs might have various nuances to meet ballistic requirements .

Does the USG’s Cargo Carrying round intended to be LAP’d at BGAD contain fewer than ten explosive submunitions?

Yes, at this time.

Does the USG’s Cargo Carrying round intended to be LAP’d at BGAD contain explosive submunitions weighing more than four kilograms?

One potential project meets the requirement. Others are not yet defined.

Does the USG’s Cargo Carrying round intended to be LAP’d at BGAD contain explosive submunition designed to detect and engage a single target object?

No. One potential contains submunitions that are non-discriminating. Other designs are not yet defined.

Does the USG’s Cargo Carrying round intended to be LAP’d at BGAD contain explosive submunition that is equipped with an electronic self-destruction mechanism?

One potential project meets the requirement. Others are not yet defined.

Does the USG’s Cargo Carrying round intended to be LAP’d at BGAD contain explosive submunition equipped with an electronic self-deactivating feature?

No projects currently have a self-deactivating feature. Others are not yet defined.

142 Can you confirm if the XM1208 is compliant with the Oslo?

The USG recognizes the Office of Secretary of Defense (OSD) policy associated with 1% UXO rate requirement. Since the USG is not a signatory to the Convention on Cluster Munitions, we cannot provide any assurance regarding whether the XM1208 is, or is not, compliant with it.

Will BGAD provide external drawings of all the rounds and list of the rounds, so we can calculate the number of fixtures?

Refer to Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability for the design envelope. Cargo kit types and quantities are not yet defined.

The contractor is not responsible for the movement of material outside the Building area. Blue grass is going to bring the materials to and from the Building. Is that correct?

During Construction: No, construction materials will be the responsibilities of the Contractor.

During Production: Yes, BGAD will move production materials into the building, to each bay, and remove final pack out/palletization.

145 Do contractors need to assume that they have the parts for this process?

Yes. End item 155MM projectile bodies/bases, cargo kits and pallets/packaging will be furnished to the line for assembly. Needs and interfaces unique to specific cargo projectiles will be integrated at a future date when those designs are definitized.

146 Do we know what the incoming looks like and outgoing packaging needs to be? BGAD personnel will be doing unpacking so assume you will just be working with parts.

147 Will there be melt/pour operations that contractor is responsible for?

No. This effort is focused on end item projectile loading of supplied cargo kits, conducting system checks, marking and final pack out/palletization.

With the receipt, is all the material going to be received in these Building or delivered onsite and then brought to the Building?

Generally, material will be brought to the Building as needed, and receipted elsewhere. However, if your response demonstrates efficiency improvements by receipt at the site of the operation, this will be considered.

The components are most likely going to be stored somewhere else and then brought up to the Building for production, do we need to plan for component handling, getting it to the location? Is it safe to assume the appropriate parts will be handled?

You can assume it will be brought to a bay, and make the assumption that the parts will be provided at that point. Design must have a staging area as part of the process to receive parts for each operation.

150 Is part of the process the cargo coming in the cargo container? Will it be loaded or come pre-loaded?

The Contractor will be responsible for loading the round. You will be receiving cargo kits that would need to be pressed inside the cavity, various inspections will need to be conducted, and then finish the projectile.

151 Is there any requirement for the contractor to prep the shells?

Shell bodies coming into the building will be formed and painted. Additional work required to LAP the shell body within the scope of this project are detailed in Attachment 0002 - 155MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability .

152 Are marking drawings available?

Guidance for appropriate 155MM marking locations and color coding can be found in MIL-STD-709D w/Change 1, MIL-STD-129R w/Change 3 and TM 43-0001-28 at https://quicksearch.dla.mil/.

153 Will final packaging already be marked?

Partially, Yes. However, Projectile and packaging (Pallets) will need to be properly stenciled/marked as part of LAP Operations. Where applicable, punch marks will also be applied to projectiles and yellow squares stenciled over them to indicate the proper weight zone of each projectile.

154 What traceability requirements are there for final packaging?

Each round is required to have traceability - placing a unique identifier on the projectile.

No linking between the round to the pallet is required (minus the lot number).

155 What larger system should the traceability system integrate with?

SCADA shall be quoted for this effort.

Attachment 0007 - 155MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability Radiographic Inspection System requires a unique identification to be applied to the round. X-Ray is completed in the later portion of the LAP. X-Ray and any applicable inspections for each station associated with the line will be stored.

156 What paint is used for touch up paint?

Bare surfaces are first treated with Kem Aqua Wash Primer (13070967) per TT-C-490.

Touch up with MIL-DTL-11195 type 2 enamel topcoat, Ammunition (12997567) IAW MIL-STD-171, color green (OLIVE DRAB) NO. 34088 OF SAE-AMS-STD-595. Non-bare surfaces are first sanded lightly, cleaned with isopropyl alcohol and touched up similarly.

157 Are there pre-conditioning requirements for the shell? No.

158 Is there any expectation that packaging is reuseable or is it disposable?

Cargo kits will likely contain explosive/energetics sub-assemblies/munitions that require robust packaging to ensure safety compliance prior to LAP. Kits envisioned to be used for staging cargo(s) based on types, number and design specific. Unknown at this time.

What size vehicles will be used for deliveries of the munitions to be assembled and what size of vehicle will be used for delivery on the output end of the line?

We have semi-trucks that deliver material to and from each of our ammo maintenance Buildings. They accept and can transfer palletized cargo easily. Forklifts in the Building are used to move pallets out to the trucks.

Does the proposal need to include logistics/shipping/distribution infrastructure? If so, what is the preferred mode of shipping?

No, shipping and logistics will be handled by BGAD.

161 How are the parts going to be loaded into the system?

Cargo kits that are design specific will be furnished to the line containing submunition warhead(s) and ancillary hardware for assembly into the projectile body. After each layer(s) consisting of submunition and any ancillary components are staged and any inspections/connections/checks conducted, that layer(s) are pressed into the shell with the required seating force and process repeated if needed until complete.

For final pack out, can the USG provide packaging details (i.e. Type of packaging, packing configurations, etc.)?

Typical 155MM projectiles are palletized 8 to a projectile pallet and 3 projectile pallets banded together.

How is incoming material packaged and delivered? Does the Contractor have any control on how the cargo kits are coming in? Per 1:1, we assume our process starts at the receipt of warhead body and cargo kit, then we design and implement a process depalletize/unpack.

Do we need to assume packaging is re-usable or disposable? If reusable, do we need to account for floor space for storage in the process Building?

Packaging of specific TDP will not be controlled by contractor. However, Cargo Kits will be brought to Bays by BGAD employees. At each Bay, the contractor will be required to design any potential magazine or design to load it.

Cargo kits will likely contain explosive/energetics sub-assemblies/munitions that require robust packaging to ensure safety compliance prior to LAP. Kits envisioned to be used for staging cargo(s) based on types, number and design specific. Unknown at this time.

This sources sought is for the implementation of the line, is there opportunity to be involved in the operations?

The requirement for this Sources Sought Notice is to provide the LAP Line.

Assume this is going to be a contract managed through PM CAS, if there is a P3, could a company be the contractor using the BGAD personnel to operate?

There is opportunity to use a P3 for this requirement of the LAP Line. All other operating will be done through a different Sources Sought Notice posted on sam.gov.

166 Will there be any plans for operation? Plans for operation are outside the scope of this Sources Sought Notice.

167 Once the line is completed, how far into production, do you expect the contractor to be involved?

After the manufacturing line is built, Attachment 0002 - SOW for 155 MM Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability states there are requirements for ancillary documentation.

168 Who will be operating the line? Will they require training? Employees at BGAD. Yes, they will require training.

Do you need training at the end of qualification to train that personnel who will be running the operations?

Yes.

170 Will this be one plane or multiple? Beam alignment?

Requirements for each projectile will be specific to that projectile TDP. X-Ray requirements are in Attachment 0007 - Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability Radiographic Inspection System, which require part indexing (rotation) and vertical movement (adjustments to beam alignment).

171 Does the X-Ray examine the base of the cargo assembly?

Yes, the X-Ray should be able to examine the base. Requirements for each projectile will be specific to that projectile TDP. X-Ray requirements are in Attachment 0007 - Cargo Projectile LAP Flexible Line Facility Capability Radiographic Inspection System, which require part indexing (rotation) and vertical movement (adjustments to beam alignment), which will allow for potential base examination.

There is a note talking about an X-Ray shed, is that something that gets constructed inside of a facility? Is the USG acceptable of the X-Ray room and equipment being an external ‘add on’ to the primary Building?

Yes, the X-Ray can be either in existing building, or an "add-on".

173 Do you have a current X-Ray vendor for the system itself? No.

Capacity on the X-Ray facility is significantly higher than 30k/year, is it desired to be able to run multiple projects with this same X-Ray?

No, X-Ray is intended to not be a bottle neck. In the event of mechanical issues the system should be…