Fibre Optic Compass System (FOCS) In-Service Support (ISS)

a. The Authority published a Request for Information (RFI) in April-May 2025. This PMEN is a further step to refine requirements ahead of a competitive flexible procedure. b. The Authority is engaging the market to: i. Provide suppliers with the opportunity to express interest. ii. Understand the capability in the market. iii. Understand commercial feasibility and delivery models. iv. Build supplier awareness and support competitive participation. c. The Authority confirms that: i. All information disclosed will be provided transparently to all suppliers to ensure equal treatment. ii. Participation in engagement does not create any preferential status in later procurement stages. iii. All relevant information shared through engagement will be published on the DSP to ensure open and equal access. d. The planned PSQ issue date is June-26, and the planned tender issue date is Sep-26. Interested suppliers may: a) Express interest including a capability statement. b) Submit clarification questions upon acceptance of capability statement by the authority. c) Offer feedback on commercial or technical approaches. Expressions of interest, together with a capability statement, must be submitted by email to vikki.notton100@mod.gov.uk no later than 17:00 on 27 April 2026. The engagement will be conducted in accordance with the Procurement Act 2023 Section 16(1) and Section 16(2) ('Preliminary Market Engagement'). Depending on the response from suppliers, the Authority may discuss: a) Developing the authority's requirements and approach to the procurement. b) Designing a procedure, conditions of participation or award criteria. c) Preparing the tender notice and associated tender documents. d) Identifying and notifying suppliers that may or may not be able to supply the goods, services or works required. e) Identifying likely contractual terms. f) Building capacity among suppliers in relation to the contract being awarded.