Research services

Tender description

Research services: in order to maximise the impact of science and technology (S&T) for the Defence and Security (D&S) of the UK, Dstl’s role includes the responsibility for leading the formulation, design and delivery of a coherent and integrated Ministry of Defence (MOD) S&T programme using industrial, academic and government resources. In particular, the Cyber and information systems division stewards both the cyber and the command, control, communications, computer, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities (including Space). The Defence and Security Analysis Division stewards the Synthetic Environment and Simulation capabilities. The Serapis framework aims to provide an expedient mechanism for DSTL to access industrial and academic expertise both within the UK and wider, in support of the divisions’ S&T programmes, and potentially wider MOD and Partner across government organisations (PAGs). The construct should allow the supply base to be refreshed throughout the contract lifespan, ensuring that Dstl has access to innovative solutions and robust technical support. Such a construct will allow for the rapid response to emerging capability needs, urgent operational requirements/urgent capability requirements (UOR/UCR) and surge requirements emanating from operations. Based on the structure and contents of the programmes and the aggregation of wider requirements across the portfolios, the Serapis framework has been categorised into 6 lots, details of each lot is provided in this notice. The competition is seeking to appoint a prime contractor for each lot to lead, manage and deliver research in to the areas covered by the 6 lots. The appointed prime contractors will be responsible for delivering agile, and cutting-edge research, building and maintaining a robust supplier network with an emphasis on scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration to exploit research, skills and capabilities. In addition to DSTL and the Ministry of Defence (MOD), the Serapis framework will be available to the following Government Departments/Public Authorities (including their agencies and public bodies): the Home Office, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.