OTV (Orbital Transfer Vehicle) Nozzle Extension Development

This Special Notice solicits feedback on developing ceramic matrix composite nozzle extensions for orbital transfer vehicle engines. The Air Force Research Laboratory Rocket Propulsion Division seeks to enable affordable proliferation of orbital transfer vehicles through advanced materials technologies. The Notice requests information on teaming approaches, material candidates, manufacturing processes, and roadmaps to advance nozzle extension technologies from TRL 4 to 6 by 2028. Responses are sought to identify partners capable of developing a flight-worthy nozzle unit to transition to affordable production and conduct full-scale integrated demonstrations. All replies must be received by February 19, 2024 and directed to the identified Contracting Specialist and Contracting Officer.

The objective is to enable the proliferation of high-performance orbital transfer vehicles through the use of ceramic matrix composite nozzle extensions. Responses should include company information and capabilities to provide nozzle extensions within specified parameters to thrust levels over 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit and area ratios over 200 to 1. The goal is to transition technologies for affordable production and conduct full-scale nozzle demonstrations by 2028. Interested parties may provide recommendations on a development program and request meetings to further discuss responses.