NSpOC: Sovereign Sensor - Active RF Radar Capability

Tender description

**This notice relates to the same procurement as UKSAC26_0005 and represents an update to that procedure: it is not a procurement for a second radar capability** ** In response to supplier feedback following pre-market engagement conducted in April 2026 as part of UKSAC26_0005, we have made a decision to split the original contract (UKSAC26_0005) into two separate contracts. This contract (UKSAC26_0046) will cover the manufacture of the radar capability (including software capabilities). It will not cover the enabling works associated with the radar, though the appointed supplier will be expected to support installation and to work with DSIT and the appointed infrastructure contractor to ensure successful installation and handover. UKSAC26_0047 will cover the enabling works and installation of the radar.** The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) intends to commence a competitive procurement for a sovereign, high-power (~1 MW class) space surveillance radar in the Southern Hemisphere to enhance the UK's Space Surveillance and Tracking (SST) and Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capability. It is expected that this radar system will operate as a key national asset, providing enhanced detection, tracking and custody of resident space objects, particularly small-size debris and operational satellites in Low Earth Orbit. It will deliver significant improvements to UK resilience, space safety, collision avoidance, re-entry monitoring, fragmentation detection and wider civil-military situational awareness objectives. The procurement will cover all elements of sensor capability delivery, including (but not limited to): • Radar system design, manufacturing and/or acquisition (as necessary); • Provision of associated software capabilities required for operation of the radar system; • Support to installation, systems integration, alignment, testing and commissioning activities, working in conjunction with DSIT and the appointed infrastructure contractor; • Handover into operational service, associated documentation, training, and assurance materials; • Integration with NSpOC's wider operational architectures, tasking frameworks and national space safety processes. • Post-handover maintenance and support. Planned Procurement Timelines: It is DSIT’s intention to issue a Selection Questionnaire (SQ) on 21 September 2026. The SQ will be will primarily seek: • Confirmation that suppliers possess the technical capability, capacity and experience required to design, manufacture and deliver a complex radar capability (including associated software) and to work effectively with delivery partners on installation and integration activities; • Confirmation that suppliers have access to staff with appropriate levels of security clearance to work on the project; • High level organisational information required for compliance, policy and national security assurance; • Initial declarations relating to proposed subcontracting arrangements, supply chain dependencies, and any international elements requiring review. Estimated Contract Value and Funding Position: The estimated contract value is currently £25 million (excluding VAT). This figure is indicative only at this stage and remains subject to: • Internal due diligence; • Confirmation of final scope; • Availability of programme funding; • Required UK Government approvals. DSIT reserves the right to adjust the estimated value as the procurement progresses and as greater clarity on technical scope, delivery model, and site requirements is established. Additional Context: The future radar system is expected to form a core component of the UK's long term sovereign SDA architecture, complementing existing UK and partner sensors, and integrating into NSpOC's operational mission system. The solution must therefore demonstrate resilience, high availability, environmental compliance, cyber security robustness, and suitability for operation within a secure, safety critical environment. A tender notice containing full details of the procedure, tendering stages and evaluation approach will be published following completion of the SQ stage and approval of the procurement strategy. Raytheon Systems Limited are currently undertaking a technical feasibility study to inform the specification of the radar system. The final deliverable from this work will be released to bidders who pass the SQ stage under NDA to ensure an equitable competition. **Please note the value of this procurement is indicative at this stage and subject to change**