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AIRR Expansion AI Cloud Compute
Descriptions
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology is responsible for delivering the UK’s ambitions set out in the AI Opportunities Action Plan, and the UK Compute Roadmap, including expanding the existing advanced compute capacity of the AI Research Resource (AIRR). AIRR currently comprises of two AI-optimised supercomputers (Dawn at University of Cambridge and Isambard-AI at University of Bristol). The UK government has committed to expanding this compute capacity 20x by 2030 through a blended portfolio that combines on-premises systems with cloud-based compute. The procurement is focused on: Scaling access to AI-appropriate compute for UK researchers, SMEs and public bodies; Supporting innovation across the UK digital and research ecosystem; Enhancing flexibility to match varying workload and user needs. DSIT intends to procure a single supplier in a managed service provider capacity to integrate cloud compute resources into the existing AIRR ecosystem. This shall be conducted via a two-stage competitive selection process of Lot 6 suppliers on the CCS framework RM6190 Technology Services 4. The successful supplier shall be responsible for: Strategic Cloud Brokerage and Aggregation – managing relationships and subcontracts with Cloud Service Providers (CSPs), ensuring flexible and cost-effective access to accelerated compute. AIRR Cloud Platform integration - developing a platform layer that integrates with the existing AIRRPortal and provides user support and usage visibility. Managed Services including optimisation, forecasting, security, reporting and operation management. DSIT anticipates that the successful supplier will be required over the duration of the contract to establish and manage subcontracts with a range of CSPs to meet diverse workload needs across the AIRR programme. In addition, the supplier may also utilise their own internal cloud resources, where appropriate, to fulfil the requirements and ensure optimal service delivery. The competition process is being designed under CCS Tech Services 4 Lot 6. Suppliers on Lot 6 TS4 may wish to begin exploring potential CSP partnerships in advance of this procurement at their own risk.
Engagement
DSIT, in collaboration with CCS, shall host a webinar on 10th February 2026 at 10:00AM with suppliers on Lot 6 Tech Services 4. DSIT is seeking feedback on: The Feasibility of the delivery partner model Proposed timelines Commercial and Technical Assumptions Supplier capacity and interest.
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Tender Regions
CPV Codes
72000000 - IT services: consulting, software development, Internet and support
72315000 - Data network management and support services
72317000 - Data storage services
72500000 - Computer-related services
72416000 - Application service providers
Keywords
IT data vault
digital storage
IT consulting
node monitoring
offsite storage
web services
network support
cloud services
SaaS platforms
data archiving
IT asset support
web app hosting
IT outsourcing
managed switch support
software development
cybersecurity support
diagnostic network tools
cloud data storage
application maintenance
workstation management
endpoint management
help desk services
digital transformation
technical support
traffic flow regulation
managed software hosting
electronic backup
system integration
software customization
database preservation
hosted storage systems
enterprise app solutions
on-demand app services
interconnection services
secure file retention
cloud application delivery
IT infrastructure management
infrastructure surveillance
network integrity support
hosted business applications
system lifecycle administration
computer utility coordination
general computing assistance
on-premise system support
virtual network assistance
network configuration management
digital service provisioning
long-term data safekeeping
application hosting services
enterprise network troubleshooting
subscription-based software
remote application delivery
integrated tech solutions
technology operations assistance
Tender Lot Details & Award Criteria
1 Tender Lots
Workflows
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