Request for Information: SUU-72 Pylon Upper Panel Replacement

AFNWC/NDB is seeking information from industry regarding procurement and replacement of the SUU-72 Pylon Upper Panels. SUU-72 Pylons have been in desert storage and long-term environmental exposure has resulted in corrosion damage. Repair of damage must be performed before hardware is modified to a SUU-103 configuration. Corrosion damage is primarily focused on the Upper Panel, an aluminum bulkhead in the Pylon’s basic structure.

Due to the type of corrosion, Upper Panels are planned to be replaced under this effort. The existing bulkhead aluminum alloy material is no longer acceptable for use on US Air Force weapons systems. A replacement alloy needs to be identified, replacement bulkheads manufactured, and installed into the Pylons. Refurbished SUU-72s will be expected to meet a minimum 30-year service life. Question due no later than 4:00 P.M. CST on 26 September 2024