UK SBS PR19106 SPEQTRE Spacecraft Platform and Software

The project called "Speqtre" formerly known as "QKD QubeSat" is a collaboration between the Singapore and UK (BEIS) governments, and could lead to a more secure online activity for consumers in everything from financial transactions to online conversations. The project scope is to build and fly a satellite quantum key distribution (QKD) test bed.

Through this collaboration, Singapore and the UK will co-develop a satellite called "Speqtre"", a satellite based on the CubeSat standard that will use a pioneering QKD technology to test the secure distribution of cryptographic keys over globe-spanning distances. Quantum Key Distribution provides an alternative that can be seamlessly integrated onto the network systems we already use.

It is resistant to all known computational attacks, including from future quantum computers. The project was kicked off around Feb 2019 and is currently around PDR stage.

The satellite is expected to be launched around Q3/Q4 2023. In the UK, work will be led by the STFC, responsible for the development of the platform (BUS) and the optical payload for optical links needed for beaming QKD signals, known as the 'Optical Payload'.

RAL Space is also responsible for the design, development, and implementation of an optical ground station. The UK contribution for this project is £5M, provided to RAL Space by BEIS (UK Government).

In Singapore, work will be led by the Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) which will contribute its expertise in the building of a rugged and compact Quantum Key Distribution instrument, known as 'QKD Payload'. A Supplier Day had previously been held for this requirement; https://www.contractsfinder.service.gov.uk/Notice/43221e7... Proposal are sought by UKRI for the core deliverables of the requirement; -Proto-Flight Model -Electrical Ground Support Equipment -Mission Control Software -Mechanical Ground Support Equipment. -Agreed Flat Sat The upper value of £1M GBP excluding VAT for the core requirement, is the maximum budget available.

Therefore, Bids that exceed this value will not be accepted by the Contracting Authority. The Optional purchases, that may be taken up by UKRI within 12 months of contract commencement are; -EO Camera -Lens Cover -Flat Sat - EPS -Flat Sat - Radio -Flat Sat - ADCS The options are estimated to be up to a value of £400K GBP excluding VAT.

Additional information: Please Note: Do not apply directly to the Buyer. Please disregard any content in this notice that requests your organisation "to apply directly to the buyer" as this unfortunately a system generated error, that is outside of the Contracting Authorities control.

The final date and time for the submission of bids is 09 October 2020 at 1400hrs. The contracting authority shall utilise the Delta eSourcing Procurement Tool available at the above link to conduct this procurement.

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