Options analysis of Supervised Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) solutions

The Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) is an arms-length body of the Ministry of Defence employing around 6,000 people headquartered in Aldermaston, Berkshire.

For more than 70 years, AWE has supported the UK Government’s nuclear defence strategy and the Continuous At Sea Deterrent. We also use our nuclear know-how and technical expertise to provide innovative solutions that support the UK’s counter-terrorism and nuclear threat reduction activities.

We work at the extremes of science and engineering to understand the performance of nuclear warheads, and assess the safety, security and effectiveness of the stockpile in the absence of live testing.

Remarkable science, technology, engineering, and maths integrate across the lifecycle of the warhead: from initial concept and design to final decommissioning and disposal. Experts in their fields work together in unique and advanced experimental facilities, to perform cutting edge experiments.

The current SCADA system (supervised control and data acquisition) software controls the laser systems from alignment to recording the end data post shot. The software integrates and interacts with complicated subsystems, which are not in scope of the change but must be considered when refreshing the control solution.

This early market engagement has been initiated to assess options on the market and do a comparative analysis between doing nothing, upgrading the existing solution, procuring a solution, or developing our own capability. The specific output may change dependent on discussion with suppliers and the available information at the time of engagement.

At a high level each option will require the below details to inform the decision making.

a. Rough order of magnitude costs to deliver solution.

b. Outline schedule/timeline to deliver solution.

c. Obstacles or issues with delivery that have been identified.

i) Outline solutions to identified issues.

d. List of assumptions where information was not available.

We are looking to identify 3rd party solutions and understand the cost, complexity and benefits of these products relative to the other options available to the business.

In issuing this PIN and engaging with the market, the AWE is not committing to conduct any procurement in relation to this Programme. Equally non-participation in this Market Engagement will not be taken into account in any future procurement activities and will not preclude any organisation from submitting a tender in any future competitions.