Procurement of Magnetrons for the In Service Capability Support of I-Band Transponders

Description

The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) requires the procurement of the currently in-service Magnetron (NSN: 5960-99-1187834, Manufacturer Part No: MA2829), a spare component fitted to the I-Band Transponders (NSN: 5895-99-2197829, 5895-99-0524994). Manufactured by MPD Components, a US-based company, this bespoke internal component is critical to the operation of I-Band Transponders installed on both Wildcat and Merlin aircraft platforms. Currently sourced through a third-party agent, there is an ongoing requirement to procure the Magnetron directly from Spectrum Control Ltd. The LSC SCC Delivery Team and DE&S Deca are responsible for Tri-Service Pan-Platform Aircraft Equipment Support, which is vital for the maintenance of Land, Sea, and Air equipment assets. The I-Band Transponder is a legacy system that has been in continuous service since the 1980s, with an anticipated out-of-service date of 2045. The Magnetron was specifically developed as a bespoke component for the I-Band’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), now operating as Spectrum Control Ltd., who continue to provide Post Design Services for the I-Band system. Official documents referenced in this RFI, including DEFCONs, are accessible via Knowledge in Defence (KiD) at https://www.defencegateway.mod.uk/. If you do not have access to Defence Gateway, you may submit a request by creating a ticket through the Defence Gateway Helpdesk at https://helpdesk.defencegateway.mod.uk/ by selecting ‘Knowledgebase’ and then ‘Submit a Ticket’. Full details can be found in the attached RFI document. https://contracts.mod.uk/esop/toolkit/noticeFts/info/1564118/view.si#fh