Based on advances in Explosives Detection Systems used to scan checked bags before they are put on airplanes, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology (S&T) Directorate has issued a pre-solicitation notice for the development of advanced containers that are used to carry cargo inside passenger airplanes. The Hardened Unit Load Device-Reduced Threat (HULD-R) would weight under 220 pounds when empty and have an acquisition cost under $10,000. The HULDs are used to help contain and mitigate a bomb blast on the lower deck of a wide-body aircraft to that the plane can continue flying. S&T anticipates a three phase effort with the first phase being design development, the second being design finalization, and the third being prototype fabrication and testing. One or two awards are planned with a one-year base period and a one-year option period. Sol. No. HSHQDC-09-R-00052. Contact: Nancy Hoffman, senior acquisition specialist, [email protected].