Naval Sea Systems Command released a notice on July 17 that it intends to issue a solicitation for AN/SLQ-25 Torpedo Countermeasure Transmitting Sets, called NIXIE, electro-acoustic towed torpedo countermeasures.

The NIXIE systems are part of the Surface Ship Torpedo Defense (SSTD) program, which aimed to provide independent torpedo protection to aircraft carriers before it was canceled in 2018.

NIXIE is essentially a towed torpedo decoy that emits signals to divert torpedoes from a target.

Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Anthony Begis detaches a guide line from an AN/SLQ-25 Nixie after testing it on the fantail aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) the Pacific Ocean in September 2017. (Photo: U.S. Navy)
Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Anthony Begis detaches a guide line from an AN/SLQ-25 Nixie after testing it on the fantail aboard USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) the Pacific Ocean in September 2017. (Photo: U.S. Navy)

In February Navy acquisition chief James Geurts said the $700 million SSTD system was canceled due to poor performance compared to its effectiveness and cost (Defense Daily, Feb. 16).

However, at the time Geurts said this did not mean the technologies were not useful, “just the current instantiation wasn’t something we were going to keep on the ships.”

SSTD included a torpedo warning system to detect, localize, and alert about incoming torpedo threats as well as the countermeasure anti-torpedo hard-kill countermeasure to intercept the threats.

This new NIXIE procurement “will provide a tech refresh for currently fielded systems and will include modernization efforts to ensure future supportability,” the FedBizOpps post said.

The Navy expects to award a cost-plus fixed fee indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract that has line items for proof of manufacturing, engineering services including design analysis, first articles, and backfit and new construction production units.

The NIXIE contract will also support Foreign Military Sales, the notice said.

While the Navy will provide Level II drawings nad performance specifications in the request for proposals, the contractor will develop and deliver Level III drawings with system components.

The contract will have a one-year base period with four one-year options.

The Navy expects to issue the RFP around Aug. 6 and it will have a 450-day response time.