Testing Requirements to Complete R&D for Source Approval, NSN 4710015077949

The technical elements of this proposal focus on the verification testing of a reverse engineered item. An initial Source Approval Request (SAR) for the subject item was submitted in Oct. 2023; the submitting small business manufacturer worked with government engineers throughout 2024 in ongoing R&D efforts to refine the SAR to reflect manufacturing, sampling, and QA processes that will produce items that meet or exceed standards. The final R&D step for approval as a DLA source for this sole-source item in order to more efficiently maintain the weapon systems that use it is the verification testing of the reverse engineered first articles to be performed at Tinker AFB, OK. This request is for funding to pay for these verification testing requirements.  The tests will evaluate and certify the dimensionality, material composition, and form/fit/function of the reverse engineered items. All tests and checks will conform to the First Article Requirements outlined by the Air Force Material Command itemized in the AFMC Form 260. The three stages of testing are as follows: Stage 1: Dimensions Testing (4 weeks) The dimensions and finishes of three (3) reverse engineered first articles will be checked. Stage 2: Material Testing (4 weeks)The material and condition (hardness) of one article will be verified/checked. Stage 3: Form, Fit, and Function (6 weeks) Form, fit and function of remaining two articles will be evaluated using mission-specific equipment available in the lab.