COTS Trailer/Modification Propulsion System Rocket Engine Transport Trailer (PTT2)

The Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center at Hill Air Force Base is conducting market research through a Request for Information to identify commercial trailer manufacturers capable of producing a modified COTS semi-trailer for transport of sensitive government cargo, with responses due September 30, 2026. This is a pre-solicitation RFI only; no contract will be awarded from this notice.

The Government seeks to adapt a proven, commercially available refrigerated/insulated freight trailer design as a low-cost alternative to a full-scale Engineering & Manufacturing Development program. Key performance requirements include integrating six sets of large side-access doors (three per side) plus one rear door set while maintaining structural roof stiffness, thermal insulation, and highway durability; reinforcing the trailer floor with flush-mounted cargo tie-downs capable of securing loads at a 3.0 Gs longitudinal force safety factor; selecting interior liner materials (fiberglass, polymer sheets, stainless steel) resistant to chemical corrosion from hypergolic vapor exposure, specifically Monomethylhydrazine and Nitrogen Tetroxide; and installing exterior-facing atmospheric sampling or relief ports with maintained weather and thermal seal integrity.

The cargo transported is a Propulsion System Rocket Engine cylindrical container approximately 70.86 inches in diameter, 61.82 inches in height, and approximately 2,500 pounds loaded weight. Transport compliance is required under Department of Transportation, Department of War, and AFMAN 91-201 regulations. Security requirements mandate no access to loaded trailers until destination with continuous two-man crew escort. The project involves Controlled Unclassified Information; the Government is evaluating CMMC-2 compliance tailoring.

Respondents must submit written responses addressing all RFI questions with technical documentation including CAD models, axle stress calculations, and material certifications. The Government may conduct site visits to interested manufacturers' facilities as part of ongoing market research. Submit responses to courtney.eubanks@us.af.mil and torrey.boggs.2@us.af.mil.