Scope
Reference
Project_2189
Description
AWE is looking to contract for the refurbishment of laser transport mirrors of 500 x 350 x 80 mm and 351 nm, which have been in operation for over a decade and have degraded. There are approximately 50 such mirrors, and we know that at least 25 mirrors need to be recoated and repolished. We will not be able to inspect the remaining 25 mirrors until late summer 2026.
AWE intends to create a single-supplier framework for the mirror refurbishment through a Competitive Flexible Procedure.
We hope to launch the CFP in March 2026 and award the framework in early July 2026, then award the first call-offs for the recoating of the first batch of mirrors. Through this framework we will send mirror blanks / system mirrors to the winning supplier, for them to rework / recoat the mirrors and then send them back.
We are undertaking this PME to gauge supplier interest, capability and cost.
Commercial tool
Establishes a framework
Total value (estimated)
- £1,000,000 excluding VAT
- £1,200,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 8 July 2026 to 7 July 2030
- 4 years
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 38622000 - Mirrors
- 38636100 - Lasers
Contract locations
- UKJ11 - Berkshire
Engagement
Engagement deadline
10 February 2026
Engagement process description
Suppliers who register their interest in this PME will be sent a Request for Information (RfI) form to complete, for submission by the engagement deadline above. Information provided as part of this RfI may be taken into consideration by AWE when forming the CFP documentation (as previously stated, CFP is expected to be launched in March 2026.)
N.B. the above may be subject to change and AWE will update the market should this be the case.
Submission by 5pm on the day of the Engagement deadline.
Suppliers are asked to register their interest to RDME.Procurement@awe.co.uk stating "Project_2189 [the procurement reference] RfI" in the email header.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
12 March 2026
Procedure
Special regime
Defence and security
Contracting authority
Atomic Weapons Establishment
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PYCH-2579-LGTN
AWE Aldermaston
Reading
RG7 4PR
United Kingdom
Email: rdme.procurement@awe.co.uk
Region: UKJ11 - Berkshire
Organisation type: Public authority - central government