Opportunity
SAM #1d496587b46a427bbfccd220813a26fd
Sole Source Procurement of Humanoid Engageable Kinetic Training Robot (HEKTR) Systems for Security Forces Training
Buyer
30th Contracting Squadron
Posted
July 15, 2026
Respond By
July 28, 2026
Identifier
1d496587b46a427bbfccd220813a26fd
NAICS
333998, 334511, 541715, 336999
This notice from the 30th Contracting Squadron (30 CONS PK), Space Systems Command, at Vandenberg Space Force Base announces a planned sole-source procurement for advanced Humanoid Engageable Kinetic Training Robot (HEKTR) systems. - The HEKTR systems are manufactured by MVP Robotics, Inc., the sole OEM and developer of this technology. - The procurement is being conducted under SBIR Phase III guidelines, which allows for sole-source awards to the original developer. - The HEKTR systems are robotic targets designed for realistic, live-fire training for Security Forces personnel. - Key technical requirements include: - 3D armored humanoid targets with modular, field-replaceable bodies - Real-time 360° shot detection with mobile app feedback - Human-like motion up to 18 mph - Advanced sensor systems in self-healing bodies - Customizable orientation and realistic response (e.g., falling when shot) - Minimum eight-hour battery life - Synchronized operation of multiple robots - No specific part numbers or quantities are provided in the notice. - While the procurement is restricted to MVP Robotics, the government will consider capability statements from other vendors who can meet all technical requirements.
Description
This is a Notice of Intent to Sole Source. This is not a formal Request for Quotes (RFQ) or a Request for Proposals (RFP), and no solicitation document is available. This notice does not represent a commitment by the Government to pay for costs incurred in the preparation and submission of any information.
1. Contracting Activity
30th Contracting Squadron
1515 Iceland Ave. Building 8500
Vandenberg, CA 93437
2. Description of Requirement
30 SFS requires the procurement of advanced Humanoid Engageable Kinetic Training Robot (HEKTR) systems to enhance the tactical training capabilities of installation Defenders. These systems, manufactured by MVP Robotics, are designed to provide realistic, live-fire training scenarios that improve the readiness and effectiveness of Security Forces personnel.
3. Proposed Source & Sole Source Authority
The Government intends to award a firm-fixed-price, sole-source contract to:
Proposed Awardee: MVP Robotics, Inc.
Unique Entity ID (UEI): WJC7KAMMDYC4
The Contracting Officer has determined that MVP Robotics is the only source reasonably available to perform these services in accordance with Revolutionary Federal Acquisition Regulation Overhaul (RFO) 12.102(a) for acquisitions valued at or below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT).
4. Rationale for Restricting Competition
MVP Robotics is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of the Humanoid Engageable Kinetic Training Robot (HEKTR) training system.
This procurement is being awarded as a result of SBIR Phase III. Under the SBIR program guidelines, Phase III awards are typically made to the company that developed the technology in earlier phases (Phase I and Phase II). MVP Robotics, as the original developer of HEKTR technology, is uniquely positioned to fulfill this requirement. Therefore, other potential sources were excluded from consideration to comply with SBIR Phase III procurement guidelines, which prioritize awarding contracts to the company that developed the technology. The proposed project derives from the following prior SBIR effort:
a. Contract Number: FA864922P1030
b. Project Name: HEKTR
Market Research Conclusion: MVP Robotics demonstrated capability to produce HEKTR systems with all required performance features. They are the original developers and sole manufacturers of the HEKTR, with a proven track record in military training applications.
The market research concluded that there is not a reasonable expectation that two or more responsible offerors, competing independently, would submit priced offers for the HEKTR systems. Therefore, the procurement will proceed as a sole source acquisition with MVP Robotics under the SBIR Phase III program.
5. Submission Instructions for Interested Parties
The Government believes that only one source, MVP Robotics Inc., can satisfy this requirement. However, in accordance with federal regulations, the Government will consider written capability statements from interested parties.
To be considered, responding firms must submit clear and convincing evidence/documentation demonstrating:
3-Dimensional Armored Target: The HEKTR must feature a 3-dimensional armored target design.
· Real-Time Shot Detection: The system must provide real-time 360° shot detection with instant feedback through a mobile app interface.
· Human-Like Motion: Targets must simulate human motion with speeds up to 18 mph, controlled via a simple remote control.
· Modular Design: The system should have modular, field-replaceable humanoid targets suitable for both outdoor terrain and indoor close-quarter engagements.
· Advanced Sensor System: Targets must contain specialized sensor systems within a self-healing body, built around a circular reinforced plastic spine for durability.
· Customizable Orientation: The circular spine design should allow operators to change target orientation, presenting various profiles to shooters.
· Realistic Response: Targets must be capable of "falling down" when shot, simulating a realistic engagement scenario.
· Battery Life: The system should have a minimum battery life of eight hours or more.
· Easy Replacement: All targets should be consumable and easily replaced within seconds.
· Synchronized Operation: Multiple systems must be able to sync and operate together for complex training scenarios.
Response Deadline:
All responses must be submitted electronically via email to the Contract Specialist, SSgt John Boutros, at john.boutros@spaceforce.mil no later than 1:00 PM Pacific Time on 28 July 2026.
A determination by the Government not to compete this proposed contract based on responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement in the future.