How to bid on the All Up Round plus Canister Simulator (AURCS) for the Navy

What the Navy is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Navy is conducting a Request for Information (RFI) to identify companies capable of fabricating, testing, and delivering the All Up Round plus Canister Simulator (AURCS). This is a developmental item designed by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport (NUWCDIVNPT).

This RFI is an opportunity for businesses to demonstrate their capabilities for a potential future contract. The work involves precision machining, extensive welding, and adherence to strict delivery schedules for a large, complex item.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on July 15, 2026. Responses are due by August 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. This is a request for information, not a solicitation for bids, so no contract will be awarded directly from this RFI.

The deadline is for submitting a white paper detailing your company's capabilities and experience. The Navy will use this information to gauge industry interest and technical qualifications for a possible future contract.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for companies with significant experience in large-scale precision machining, complex welding programs, and a proven track record of meeting strict delivery schedules. Firms with robust quality control and inspection processes for welded assemblies, including Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) capabilities, are particularly well-suited.

The RFI specifically asks about facility capacity to handle large, heavy items, including crane capacity and floor space. Companies in the security or defense manufacturing sector with relevant fabrication and assembly expertise should consider responding.

How to respond to this RFI

To respond, you must first access the RFI attachments, which are Distribution D, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). You will need an active registration in SAM.gov and a data entry or administrator role within the Contract Opportunities domain to request access.

Once you have access to the attachments, review the AURCS Background Slides and the Draft Statement of Work. Then, prepare a white paper addressing the specific questions outlined in the RFI regarding your facility and infrastructure, precision machining expertise, welding program and personnel, schedule adherence, and past performance.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

When detailing your precision machining expertise, provide specific examples of past projects. Highlight the types of materials you've worked with, the tolerances achieved, and the size of components manufactured to demonstrate your capability with complex requirements.

For your welding program, clearly describe your current corporate program and provide evidence of recent experience (within the last 5 years) meeting stringent welding standards. Confirm that you have or can acquire certified welders and describe your quality control and inspection processes, including NDT capabilities.

Address the schedule adherence question directly. Outline your approach to meeting the government's expected ordering and fabrication rates. If you foresee any concerns with the proposed schedule, provide a detailed justification for an alternate delivery schedule.