Scope
Description
The SD DP+ solution (eSIM platform) is required for research purposes but will be installed and accredited to enable NPL Ltd to act as a UKTL Provider. For research purposes an on-prem internet isolated solution is preferred but in order to evaluate a system that is representative of what would be in use at a Mobile Network Operator, a cloud based solution would be considered.
The SM-DP+ supplier is asked to respond to this request, and confirm with details of how it meets or exceeds the points set out below, providing narrative as appropriate.
1) Deployment
• It is possible to deploy the SM-DP+ solution within NPL's premises.
• The solution description will include the minimal hardware requirements to run the solution.
• Provide a reference network architecture and configuration.
• List the HSMs the solution is compatible with.
• Provide support to achieve the required level of GSMA SAS accreditation of the solutions deployment within the client's own premises
2) Specification compliance
The SM-DP+ solution must meet the minimal mandatory functional elements as set-out in the relevant specifications.
• SGP.21 v2.6 "RSP Architecture"
• SGP.22 v2.6 "RSP Technical Specification"
• Detail if and what elements of SGP.21/.22 V3.x are supported
• TCA's SIM Alliance Profile Package (SAIP) V3.3.1 (Aug 2023) or V3.4 (Mar 2025)
• Must include support a 5G profile generation
3) Integration
• The SM-DP+ solution provides an ES2+ MNO BSS interface with support for at least the API's defined in SGP.22.
• The SM-DP+ solution provides a compliant and proven ES12 integration towards the SM-DS
• The ES12 interface can be stubbed to simulate an SM-DS integration.
• Profile Management & Service monitoring UI / Console.
• Describe HSA's external integration method for access used by the reference deployment architecture.
4) Security
• The solution console provides Login / User Management
• The solution is architected and deployable to meet SAS audit requirements
5) Functions
• Profile Inventory management
• Upload Protected Profile packages
• Dynamic Profile Package handling / creation to match the eSIMs interoperable profile package version support
• Manually submit profile delete request to permit profile reuse without / overriding a need for device notification.
• MatchingID generation as required
• The solution supports the core profile lifecycle management as defined in SGP.22 and include the following APIs:
• DownloadOrder
- with ICCID provided, with or without EID
- with profile type provided, with or without EID
- Resulting in a linked or allocated profile
• ConfirmOrder
- ReleaseProfile
- CancelOrder
6) Interrogation
The SM-DP+ deployment permits the system administrator to employ logging tools / techniques to scrutinise events at a transactional level, trace protocol and communication exchanges within the software functions and on the RSP interfaces.
7) Documentation
The solution is accompanied with adequate documentation to permit the system administrator understand the software logic and flow sequences for each of the defined functions.
8) Services and Support
The solution is expected to be able to achieve 99% uptime / availability.
The vendor shall provide service management framework
9) Pricing structure and Contractual terms
Provide pricing structures for both the software licences, future upgrades / iterations and support regimes and any professional services fees.
10) Roadmap
A function and feature roadmap outlining the planned developments and the expected availability.
Total value (estimated)
- £1,000,000 excluding VAT
- £1,200,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 15 January 2026 to 31 March 2030
- 4 years, 2 months, 17 days
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 64000000 - Postal and telecommunications services
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Engagement
Engagement deadline
19 December 2025
Engagement process description
Prior to initiating the procurement, NPL wishes to establish the level of market interest in the forthcoming procurement process.
Suitably qualified and experienced suppliers who may have an interest in this project are invited to register for this Preliminary Market Engagement.
The purpose of the market engagement is to help assess the reaction of the market, to understand risks and future possibilities to ensure a future proofed procurement strategy and resulting contract.
Any submission received in response to this exercise will not constitute any contractual agreement between the respondent and NPL. Nor does the receipt of a response automatically include the respondent in the procurement process.
A Tender Notice will be issued to the market which will provide details of how the relating procurement documentation can be accessed and timescales for submission of the said tender response.
Interested parties shall bear their own costs of participation in this Market Engagement of whatever nature. NPL shall not be liable for the costs, expenses or losses howsoever arising (including, without limitation, any loss of profit or other economic loss incurred), regardless of the outcome of the Market Engagement.
The next stage in the process will be considered once this exercise has been completed.
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Contracting authority
NPL Management Limited
- Companies House: 02937881
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PYDB-8862-JBYM
National Physical Laboratory
Teddington
TW11 0LW
United Kingdom
Email: gary.phillips@npl.co.uk
Website: http://www.npl.co.uk
Region: UKI75 - Hounslow and Richmond upon Thames
Organisation type: Public undertaking (commercial organisation subject to public authority oversight)