19AQMM22R0150_QandAs_20230201.pdf

19AQMM22R0150 – Q&As – 1 February 2023

NOTE: Responses provided below are informational only and do not change the terms of the solicitation. The Contracting Officer will make changes to the solicitation, if any, through the issuance of an amendment utilizing Standard Form 30.

Section / Attachment Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

1. RFP Section 1 12, paragraph 7 (a) (a) Attachment 1 and Attachment 2 identify the not-to-exceed (NTE) firm fixed unit price (FFUP) and specifications applicable to the “core” products and services under this IDIQ contract.

This not-to-exceed FFUP applies to the time period(s) described in attachment 1. The Contractor may provide additional discounts at the delivery order level but may not propose rates exceeding the NTE FFUP.

Attachment 1 has not currently been provided on the SAM.gov solicitation and Attachment 2 does not identify the not-to-exceed (NTE) firm fixed unit price (FFUP). Is there a NTE FFUP for core products?

Attachment 1 will be incorporated on resultant contract and will be based on proposed prices.

Prospective offerors need to complete Attachment 6.

2. RFP Section 3 Solicitation Provisions, Page 58 of 107, paragraph 4.9 Submission of Offers

Must be received by the Government prior to the solicitation closing date and time: 4:00 pm local (Miami, FL) time on December 9, 2022

Respectfully request the Government extend the closing date to December 23 or no less than 3 weeks after answers to all questions are published.

The delivery date has been extended as reflected in SAM.

3. RFP Section 3 Solicitation Provisions, Page 59 of 107 A.

Proposal Organization and Page Limitations and Page 65 of 107, D. Volume IV – Past Performance,

(6) Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs)

For each effort identified under Tab 2 above submit information in accordance with Attachment 4 (Past Performance Questionnaire)

Please confirm offerors can include completed Section 1s of the 3 PPQs that we provided our previous customers to complete and send directly to DOS and they are not counted against the 15 page limitation for Volume IV.

Correct. The section 1s of the PPQs do not count towards the page count.

4. RFP Document, Section 3 – Solicitation Provisions

Page 60 of 107, para. 4.10, C., Title Page; also, on Page 61 of 107, para.

4.11, B.(1) and (2)

DUNS number The DUNS number has been replaced with a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI), should this be used instead of the DUNS?

Yes.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

5. RFP Section 3 Solicitation Provisions, Page 62 of 107 (3) Tab 3 Other Requirements Is the offeror correct in assuming that this tab is only for the prime and not applicable to major subcontractors?

No. It is not correct to assume this.

9.104-4 Subcontractor responsibility.

(a) Generally, prospective prime contractors are responsible for determining the responsibility of their prospective subcontractors (but see 9.405 and 9.405-2 regarding debarred, ineligible, or suspended firms). Determinations of prospective subcontractor responsibility may affect the Government's determination of the prospective prime contractor's responsibility. A prospective contractor may be required to provide written evidence of a proposed subcontractor's responsibility.

6. RFP No.

19AQMM22R0150

Sec 3.4.11.(F);

VOLUME VI – APPROACH TO LOCAL

SUSTAINMENT AND TRAINING

The RFP states, “Describe the overall approach your company will utilize to provide high quality and timely warranty and maintenance services in Colombia.” The RFP also requires offerors to deliver training that includes maintenance.

Question: What is the Government’s expectation for the division of maintenance requirements between the offeror and Columbian operators/maintainers? The answer to this question will inform the level of maintenance training we are expected to provide vs. what Columbian operators will perform. Training offered could range from simpler preventative maintenance and pre-flight checks to being able to repair all systems on-board.

This evaluation factor pertains to the warranty / maintenance required per CLIN X01 of the RFP and the training to be provided under CLINs X03

– X06. The Contractor is solely responsible to provide these services to ensure compliance with Attachment 2 requirements.

Per Attachment 2, “training must include workshop maintenance procedures and repair/replacement of major systems components.”

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

7. RFP No.

19AQMM22R0150

Sec 4.11.(C); page

FACTOR 3: APPROACH TO LOCAL

SUSTAINMENT AND TRAINING

The Government will evaluate Factor 3 based on the expectation the offerors will deliver high-quality and timely training.

Question: Is it the Government expectation that Columbian operators will be self-sufficient at some point? If so, what is the Government’s timeline to meet this goal?

The timeliness component of this evaluation factor does not refer to achieving self-sufficiency of Colombian operators, but of the Contractor being able to provide high-quality and timely training as required per Attachment 2, CLINs X03 – X06.

8. 19AQMM22R0150_

Attachment 2_Specifications.pdf

2.1 Minimum

Required Specifications

General Question If we are not compliant on Threshold requirements, such as range of 50 miles, are we still able to bid?

To be considered for award, the proposed UAS must comply, at a minimum, with the minimum required specifications in section 2.1 of Attachment 2.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

9. Section I/Attachment

1, I Specifications

“The Contractor may propose either a system with only one UAV and one ground control station or multiple UAVs /multiple ground control stations to meet requirements stated below.”

We do not see any requirements that would help us decide how to organize our offering except perhaps for a solution that can provide 1,000 hours per year, which our single platform can easily accomplish. If the competitive solicitation is based on price we would thus suggest “one UAV and one Ground Control Station” per system. However, often systems are setup with multiple aircraft per ground station for either payload flexibility or redundancy on missions.

Question: How will the evaluation be conducted when comparing a solution that is one aircraft per system versus a solution that is multiple (2 or 3) aircraft per system?

Question: Did we miss some mission requirements that may dictate how we configure out solution, such as “monitor the objective in a surge operation, where we constantly keep eyes on target for example 24 to 96-hour period without interruption”, a mission that would dictate the system have multiple (at-least two) aircraft and two ground control stations so on-station relief can be accomplished without removing eyes on a target.

In general, multiple aircraft are desired for redundancy.

Given operational considerations, a multiple aircraft solution is preferred for continuity of operations, especially when considering maintenance requirements.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

10. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Paragraph I.

Specifications

Specifications: The Contractor may propose either a system with only one UAV and one ground control station or multiple UAVs / multiple ground control stations to meet requirements stated below.

1) Can multiple UAVs be used to achieve a minimum requirement, e.g., 2 shorter range UAVs combined to reach the target range of at least 50 miles?

2) Can this be applied across other requirements such as altitude or payload?

1) Potentially, but the Government is unsure how two (2) shorter range UAVs will be able to provide coverage with a range of at least 50 miles if the ground control station, operator, and return location remain unchanged.

2) Possibly. This will be dependent on the specific requirement.

11. Section I/Attachment

1, 1 Intended Use “UAS’ sensors payload will capture, record onboard, and transmit real time video and geodata to field commanders, when required”

In many security concept of operations CONOP’s having a recording of the data on-board is undesirable in the event that the aircraft is lost and the recording shows what was being monitored to a threat. Consequently, most tactical UAS ISR payloads either do not have this on-board recording capability or it’s an add-on option. In our recommended solution the on-board recoding capability is an add-on accessory.

Question: Has the operations security been considered when this requirement was drafted?

Can this requirement be clarified or confirmed prior to us quoting our offering?

Yes, operational security has been considered.

Onboard recording is a requirement. To be considered, please propose with the required add-on.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

12. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Page 1, Paragraph 1

– Intended Use

The UAS will be transported from Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) to areas of operations in rotary wing aircraft with limited weight and space.

1) Is this intended to be a single UAS/‘system’ to be deployed to one location to provide coverage for a single 50 mile bubble. Or do you intend for multiple UAS/‘systems’ to be deployed to multiple locations concurrently?

2) If so, how many UAS/‘systems’, i.e., concurrent deployments do you require?

1) The specifications in Attachment 2, CLIN X01 is intended for a single UAS “System” to be deployed to a single location. If additional UASs are required to deploy to multiple locations, they would be purchased as additional systems under

CLIN X01.

2) Not known at this time. Delivery orders under the IDIQ will be placed as needed.

13. 19AQMM22R0150_

Attachment 2_Specifications.pdf

2.1 Minimum

Required Specifications

Operational Range: At least 50 miles Is this supposed to be 50 miles, or is it a typo and should be 50kms?

50 miles.

14. Attachment 2 - Specifications

2. Technical Specifications 2.1.

Minimum Required Specifications

Operational Range: At least 50 miles. Could more detail be provided for this statement?

Is this total distance covered while in flight i.e., endurance range or is this the distance away from the GCS?

Distance from GCS/Launch point. The UAV must have adequate range to fly 50 miles out from the launch point and return to the same launch point.

15. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Para 2.1 – Minimum Required Specifications

Operational range: At least 50 miles. Can the authority clarify the requirement for at least 50 miles of operational range? Is this 50 miles of RLOS meaning that EO/IR imagery can be off-boarded/observed in real time, or is it just that the AV can transit that distance and remain under control displaying only telemetry to an operator?

AV can transit 50 miles and remain under control displaying only telemetry to an operator.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

16. Section I/Attachment

1, 2 Technical

“UAV Weight: Not to exceed 15 kilograms.”

Our solution carries 4+ kg of fuel and has an empty weight of just under 15kg. Our GTOW is 19kg, however our empty weight meets your specification.

1) Question: Is this specification GTOW or empty weight?

2) Question: Would our solution at 14.7kg dry and 4.3 kg fuel making 19 kg GTOW acceptable?

1) GTOW.

2) No.

17. Attachment 2 1, paragraph 2.1 UAV Weight: Not to exceed 15 kilograms. Is it a correct interpretation that this is a threshold requirement and heavier UAS (35kg) will not be considered?

Yes

18. Section I/Attachment

1, 2.1 Technical

“Endurance: At least two (2) hours. & Ceiling altitude: At least 3,500 FT AGL”

We see these as minimum specifications. Our platform can carry an ISR payload for over 7 hours and has operated in excess of 15,000 ft.

Question: Do you anticipate awarding credit or review benefit in review for a platform that can operate significantly longer and higher and how does this extra capability factor into the cost analysis (best value vs lowest cost for example)?

The RFP states that the Government will conduct a best-value tradeoff decision. Refer to RFP Section 4, Item 1.0.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

19. Section I/Attachment

2, 2.1 Technical

“Sensors: Electro Optical (EO) / Infrared (IR).

Full HD video quality (1920x1080) resolution is required for the EO sensor. Sensor quality and zoom capabilities must be adequate to guarantee the above resolution when the UAS operates at least at 3,500 FT AGL”

Our hardware does not have any flash able (programmed) electronics from these barred countries. However, we are not sure, other than our assertion in a statement that this is the fact.

Question: Is there a requirement for anything beyond our sworn assertion that our product is NDAA Compliant and that there are no programmable electronics from barred countries?

The solicitation requirement mentioned in this question does not appear to relate to the question asked.

The proposed product must be NDAA compliant and must also comply with FAR clause 52.219-33 (Nonmanufacturer Rule). The specifications do not mention “programmable electronics”.

20. Section I/Attachment

2, 2.1 Technical Specifications

“Sensors: Electro Optical (EO) / Infrared (IR).

Full HD video quality (1920x1080) resolution is required for the EO sensor. Sensor quality and zoom capabilities must be adequate to guarantee the above resolution when the UAS operates at least at 3,500 FT AGL”

Many current ISR sensors in the tactical UAS space offer 1280 x 720 (720p HD resolution) rather than 1920 x 1080 (1080p or 1080i resolution). Studies within the US Govt have driven this decision and indicated that optical quality, shutter type, image stability, and less compression artifacts for a given transmission bandwidth, can more than make up for any resolution deficiency if the imagery is at-least 720p HD. With less than ½ the data to compress the results of a 720p sensor are typically more actionable than 1080p and definitely more actionable than 1080i sensors for a given transmission bandwidth.

Question: If we suggest a 720p sensor, such as a Trillium HD45-LV-CZ-GS, considered by many in the industry as best in class for a group 2 UAS be penalized or determined non-compliant due to the resolution?

720p resolution will be considered, but 1080 will be preferred.

Even if less resolution is easier for transmission purposes, full resolution data must be stored on-board, this is intended for post-flight analysis, better resolution is preferred.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

21. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Paragraph 2.1 - Minimum Required Specifications

Sensors: Electro Optical (EO) / Infrared (IR). Full HD video quality (1920x1080) resolution is required for the EO sensor. Sensor quality and zoom capabilities must be adequate to guarantee the above resolution when the UAS operates at least at 3,500 FT AGL.

1) What NIIRS / VNIIRS rating are you wishing to achieve with the sensor?

2) Do you have an example of the level of detail you would need to identify at 3,500ft AGL?

Are you content that EO and IR resolutions will be different at the same height, i.e., at 3,500ft you are unlikely to receive 1920x1080 resolution from

IR?

1. NIIRS 6 or better / V-NIIRS 6 or better

2. Enough detail to observe and interpret activities with vehicles, movement of people, and other objects of interests such as small buildings.

It is well known for the Government that the IR sensors has less resolution than EO sensors, consequently at same distance/altitude different resolutions will be obtained.

22. Section I/Attachment

“NDAA Compliant. Cannot have major hardware (flight controller), flight control firmware, mission planning software manufactured in China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea”

Our hardware does not have any flash able (programmed) electronics from these barred countries. However, we are not sure, other than our assertion in a statement that this is the fact.

Question: Is there a requirement for anything beyond our sworn assertion that our product is NDAA Compliant and that there are no programmable electronics form barred countries?

Refer to answer to question number 19.

23. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Para 2.2 – Preferred

Communication antenna with auto tracking option. Can the authority clarify the purpose of the communication antenna? Is it for downlinking live feed? Command and control of the AV?

Live feed and control.

24. Section I/Attachment

“Tracker device is required, because the UAVs will operate in areas with no cellphone network coverage, RF or similar solution would be acceptable.”

Question: Can you verify that the intent of this requirement is to locate a downed aircraft? Can you further explain the intent for the tracker?

Yes. For downed aircraft.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

25. Section I/Attachment

2, 2.2 Preferred Specifications

“Communication antenna with auto tracking option.”

With only a 50-mile (80-km) range specification a simple solution is a sector antenna. However, such a simple solution does not afford auto tracking.

Adding auto tracking will add complexity and significant cost to the platform although it would have to be manually oriented.

Question: Is there an evaluation factor in proposal review that would consider a manually pointed sector antenna rather than adding an auto tracker that increases system weight and cost or does this requirement for auto tracking stand as written?

Auto tracking is a preferred requirement under Attachment 2, section 2.2. The minimum requirement stated in section 2.1 is: “Tracker device is required, because the UAVs will operate in areas with no cellphone network coverage, RF or similar solution would be acceptable.”

26. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Para 2.1 – Minimum Required Specifications

Tracker device is required, because the UAVs will operate in areas with no cellphone network coverage, RF or similar solution would be acceptable.

Please can the Authority provide more detail relating to the need for a tracker device to be fitted? Is this referring to the command & control of the AV? Is it referring to a need to locate the AV and equipment whilst in transit? Is it a requirement for a Higher HQ to track the AV location whilst operating, like a Blue Force tracker?

Refer to response to question number 24.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

27. Section I/Attachment

2, 2.2 Preferred

“A battery charger with the capability to charge multiple batteries at once is preferred.”

Our gasoline/hybrid solution charges its VTOL batteries in flight and uses as little as 20% of the capacity for landing, thus eliminating the need for ground-based battery charging during normal operations. On the next flight the battery is typically charged in as little as 20 minutes.

Providing a multi-battery charger is easily accomplished but would most likely only be used during systems maintenance, VTOL training where flights are less than 10-15 minutes, and/or some test flights for integrating new payloads.

Question: How does a hybrid aircraft that does not require routine battery charging be evaluated with respect to simplicity of charging and operations?

DOS prefers a battery-only system, thereby precluding the need to transport additional fuel on transport helicopters and sourcing and distributing fuel for the UASs.

28. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Para 2.2 – Preferred Specifications

A battery charger with the capability to charge multiple batteries at once is preferred.

Can the Authority clarify the anticipated daily flying rate, as this will determine the battery charging requirement?

4 – 5 hours per day, but up to 12 hours as required.

29. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Para 2.1 – Minimum Required Specifications

Ground control station display must be at least 15 inches.

Is it acceptable to provide a 15inch GCS display as a secondary screen should the primary control screen be smaller than 15inches?

Yes.

30. Attachment 2 - Specifications

2.2. Preferred

Specifications

Operational Temperature Range: Approximately - 20° C to 48°C

A fully electric aircraft suffers from battery capability at low temperatures. Is a -20° C preference realistic for the missions being considered?

This is a preferred, not a minimum requirement.

31. Attachment 2 - Specifications

2. Technical Specifications 2.1.

Minimum Required Specifications

Hard cases must not exceed 55in x 22in x 22 in for airframe

Is it possible to support a 55in x 42in x 22in airframe hard case?

No.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

32. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Paragraph 2 - Minimum Required Specifications

Dimensions and Size: Detailed information of dimensions and size must be provided for the complete system. Hard cases must not exceed 55in x 22in x 22 in for airframe and 34in x 24 in x 20 in for Ground Control Station and other accessories. The weight for any one case cannot exceed 25 kilograms.

If using a non-battery powered system, where will fuel (gas) who will supply this, where will it be carried, and is it included in the weight restrictions in this requirement?

Operator will provide fuel, it will be carried in the transport helicopter, and weight limitations include the UAS system and all elements required to operate it.

33. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Page 1, Paragraph

2.1 – Minimum Required

Ceiling altitude: At least 3,500 FT AGL. 1) What is the rationale for this requirement?

2) Are you content that range (at least 50miles) will be limited by RF horizon?

1) This requirement will be changed to 400 FT

AGL.

2) DOS is aware that the range may be limited by RF horizon.

34. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Page 2, Paragraph

2.1 – Minimum Required Specifications

Video format: Geolocation/Metadata of the UAV’s flight path and sensor payload telemetry data (at a minimum aircraft location) must be written inside the video. Video file in a MP4 or .TS container must adhere to MISB or STANAG standard.

Single Images: Geotagging for single images is required so that images can be orthorectified and geolocated inside of a GIS.

Do you need to Process, Exploit, and Disseminate (PED) collected information near real time or will this be done at a later point, i.e., post flight?

Both.

35. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Paragraph 2 - Minimum Required Specifications

Support Equipment: The system must include any tools required for assembly and maintenance.

If electric, the system must include spare batteries and a charger to enable continuous operations.

Define continuous operations? By “continuous operations” the Government refers to the ability to fly the UAS uninterrupted and without the need to wait for batteries to charge while the aircraft is on the ground.

36. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Pg. 1- Paragraph 7 Operational Range: At least 50 miles Please define “operational range”. Does this requirement reference the total flight range possible on a single battery, or does it reference max signal range?

Operational range refers to the aircraft traveling at least 50 miles and back. Refer to response to question number 14.

It does not refer to the max signal range.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

37. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

X03 - Operator Training

The contractor shall train ten (10) students.

Training must be conducted by Spanish-speaking personnel possessing the proper OEM certifications and qualifications to train on the selected airframe. Contractor shall provide, at least 15 workdays prior to the commencement of training, resumes detailing qualifications and OEM certifications of proposed training personnel.

The training must include: Ground School Phase;

Crew coordination; Hands-on Flight training;

Proficiency Flight Evaluation; Risk Management;

Post Accident Flight evaluation; and any other topics required to successfully launch, operate, recover the UAV system. Training must also cover field maintenance and troubleshooting.

Can the authority clarify in which country this training will take place?

In principle in Colombia, but that is subject to change. Travel and security costs (if required) will be negotiated prior to placement of an order. Refer to applicable training CLINs.

38. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

X03 - Operator Training

Travel costs and additional security (if required) will be proposed separately.

Will travel and subsistence be included in the price of the contract or considered as a separate cost to be honoured by the customer?

Unknown currently, but pricing for CLINs X03- X06 does not include travel and subsistence.

These costs will either be provided by the host country, the USG, or will be negotiated prior to issuance of a delivery order.

39. 19AQMM22R0150

Page 4, X03 - Operator Training

X03 (OPERATOR TRAINING) – The contractor shall train ten (10) students

If 2 operators are required per system, would the requirement to train 10 students also increase i.e.

if a 2-crew system, would 20 students be trained?

Yes. The requirement will be changed to read:

“The contractor shall train ten (10) students or the number of students required to operate 10 systems, whichever is greater.”

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

40. Section I/Attachment

6-7, X05-X06

“Operational Train the Trainer Course” Page 7 “Maintenance Train the Trainer Course”

Training to independently teach the operational and maintenance training described, suggests the intent to open a host nation schoolhouse which requires oversight by an OEM SME until we are certain that the host nation can assume these responsibilities. This was accomplished by us for the Colombian Air Force. Additionally, it is in line for the Colombian Navy.

Furthermore, an instructor requires certain level of operational and maintenance proficiency. This translates into hours of flight and maintenance experience. This is unfortunately a flight time requirement that can take months to accomplish to ensure it is a safe and orderly transition of responsibilities.

Question: Can you confirm that the intent is to open a schoolhouse with all the requirements included?

CLINs X05 – X06 pertain only to the instructor time, other personnel time, and training materials required to provide this training. Facilities, travel and subsistence, and security (if required) will either be provided by the host country, the USG, or will be negotiated prior to issuance of a delivery order.

DOS assumes that the time it takes to accomplish this level of training is system dependent. The Contractor has up to 180 days to complete this training.

41. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Page 4, Paragraph 3

– Local Warranty and Support

X05 (OPERATIONAL TRAIN-THE-TRAINER

COURSE) – The contractor shall train five (5) students.

AND

X06 (MAINTENANCE TRAIN-THE-TRAINER

COURSE) – The contractor shall train five (5) students.

1) Is this a dedicated, non-flying maintainer or can the maintainer also be the operator?

2) Are the 5 operator and 5 maintainer train-the-trainer students separate to the trained operators and maintainers, i.e., we will provide separately the following, amounting to 30 individuals:

• 10 operators

• 10 maintainers

• 5 operator instructors

• 5 maintainer instructors

1) Could be both, but the student will not take both courses concurrently.

2) This is an IDIQ contract in which total quantities of training courses purchased will be determined via the issuance of one or multiple orders. Pricing for each CLIN should be based on the number of students stated in Attachment 2.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

42. 19AQMM22R0150

Attachment 2

Page 4, Paragraph 3

– Local Warranty and Support

X05 (OPERATIONAL TRAIN-THE-TRAINER

COURSE) – The contractor shall train five (5) students.

AND

X06 (MAINTENANCE TRAIN-THE-TRAINER

COURSE) – The contractor shall train five (5) students.

1) It is normal for a train-the-trainer student to have operational experience on the UAS and pre-requisite training qualifications prior to becoming an instructor on a UAS.

2) Will the train-the-train students have previous instructor experience or training? If not, the Authority will need to acknowledge a potential dilution of instruction from its own instructors compared to the contracted instructors?

Will train-the-trainer students have time to build operational experience (operator or maintainer) prior to beginning the train-the-trainer course so that they can deliver better quality training? Or is the authority happy to accept a potential dilution in training or extend the period in which train-the-trainer courses should be delivered?

1) Yes

2) Understood. Some students will have prior instructor experience. While all students might not necessarily have prior instructor experience they will have prior operational and/or maintenance experience.

43. Section I/Attachment

3, 4 Local Warranty and Support

“Delivery Date: No later than 120 days after receipt of a delivery order. (Preferred)”

Our solution is in full production and up to four per month can be manufactured at this time without any further requirement for scaling.

However, we are opened for scaling at any time if the requirement exists. The solicitation does not indicate the quantity that an initial or follow up procurements would be. In industry this can drive the cost of the systems.

Question: Is the 120-day after receipt of a delivery order for the initial systems or for the full order and if it applies to the full order what quantity would likely be in an order?

The guaranteed minimum for the IDIQ is as stated in the RFP. DOS does not guarantee any orders above the IDIQ minimum.

The 120-day requirement applies to the delivery timeframe for a single delivery order.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

44.

19AQMM22R0150

X07 – Project Manager X08 – Training Specialist

X07 - RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGING THE

IMPLEMENTATION OF PROJECTS OR

PROGRAMS.

AND

X08 - DEVELOPS, DIRECTS, PLANS,

DELIVERS AND EVALUATES TRAINING

PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES TO MEET

CUSTOMER’S LEARNING OBJECTIVES.

Can the Authority clarify whether the Project Manager & Training Specialist are required to speak Spanish, and whether they are required to be permanently based in country?

In terms of training, CLINs X03 – X06 requires that “training must be conducted by Spanish-speaking personnel possessing the proper OEM certifications and qualifications to train on the selected airframe.”

Please note that CLINs X07 and X08 will only be utilized in instances in which required services are not covered by the other CLINs. For example, all training specialist and PM costs required to provide services under CLINs X01 – X06 must be included in the price of those CLINs.

If additional services are required, and if those services are required in Colombia, then the training specialist will be required to speak Spanish. Spanish language capability is not a requirement for the PM. These individuals do not necessarily have to be based in-country.

45. 19AQMM22R0150

Page 4, Paragraph 3

– Local Warranty and Support

The Vendor must warrant the products as free from defects in materials and workmanship for a minimum period of 1 year or 1,000 flight hours.

Can the Authority confirm that the minimum warranty period should be 1 year or 1,000 flight hours, whichever is soonest?

Confirmed.

46. Attachment 4 - PPQ Pages 3-6 and page

“Check Boxes” The “Check Boxes” in the PPQ are not actively working, can the government provide an updated

PPQ?

The form was downloaded from SAM and the check boxes worked as intended. You may need to download the form again and enable editing.

47. (26) 52.219-33, Nonmanufacturer Rule (Sep 2021) ( 15U.S.C. 637(a)(17)). located in page 41 of the 19AQMM22R0150_RFP document , will exclude nonmanufacturers of the uav systems?

No, but it does place certain restrictions.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

48. Should a responding firm propose a solution with multiple aircraft systems, can less than 50% of the work completed under this contract be completed using a system assembled outside of the United States?

No

49. Does the government have a preference for hydrocarbon fuel source? (JET-A vs gasoline)

No

50. Does it need to be NDAA (U.S. compliant)?

Yes

51. The RFP mentions the procurement of ancillary supplies and services. How would the DOS like vendors to price these items, such as additional UAS in follow-on years?

If these items are required, they will be negotiated and priced at the delivery order level.

52. 19AQMM22R0150_

RFP - 4.11 - C.

VOLUME III -

PRICE PROPOSAL

P. 63 / P 2 “Attachment 6 must be completed in its entirety” X07 and X08, Project Manager and Training Specialist, show an estimated QTY of 500 EA and 200 EA, respectively. Please confirm the expectation to be priced. Is this supposed to be priced in number of man-hours? Is it expected of the contractor is to provide 500 EA Project Manager man-hours per year, and 200 EA Training Specialist man-hours per year?

As state din the RFP, the quantities included in attachment 6 are for evaluation purposes only. The unit price for the labor categories should be fully-loaded hourly labor rates.

53. 19AQMM22R0150_

Attachment 2_Specifications

P 8 / Last P Description of Mandatory “Training Specialist” Role

X07 – Since the contract already requests four sets of additional training, run by OEM-accredited staff, is there overlap between this role and the expected training session deliverables? Or is this role to manage the execution of the training deliverables from a contractual perspective?

X07 and X08 will only be used in the event additional services (i.e. those not contemplated under the other CLINS) are required.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

54. 19AQMM22R0150_

Attachment 2_Specifications

P 8 / P 9 Description of Mandatory “Training Specialist” and “Project Manager” Role

X07 and X08, Project Manager and Training Specialist: In the opinion of the designers of the SOW, for successful execution of the program, is it expected that these two roles are to be full time OCONUS and on-site for the duration of the contract period? And if so, how can that be priced adequately given the spreadsheet in Attachment 6?

Refer to response to question 56.

55. 19AQMM22R0150_

RFP - 4.11 – D

VOLUME IV –

PAST

PERFORMANCE

P 63-64 (1) Tab 1 – Identification of Contract Team / (2) Tab 2 – Identification of Recent and Relevant Efforts

If the past performance of our assigned and identified subcontractors is stronger/more relevant, will the evaluation allow the Offeror to utilize the past performance of our subcontractors in lieu of our own?

Additionally, should the PPV section need to be for the offeror only, will there be extra consideration provided to utilizing subcontractors demonstrating significant past performance on relevant activities, and if so, what section would it be appropriate to put this information? In Tab 1 – Identification of contract team?

i.e. how can the Offeror demonstrate the strength of its subcontractors, product manufacturer’s experience level, teaming partners, etc?

The RFP states: “The Government will consider recent and relevant past performance of the offeror to be more significant than similar past performance of major subcontractors.”

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

56. 19AQMM22R0150_

RFP - 4.11 – D

VOLUME IV –

PAST

PERFORMANCE

P 63-64 Tab 2 – Identification of Recent and Relevant Efforts

Our company operates several different CAGE codes which specialize in different activities, under the same brand (affiliated companies). Is it acceptable to submit PPV’s for one of the affiliated CAGE codes, if the CAGE submitting as offeror is different?

i.e. if the PPV of CAGE x vs. CAGE y is more significant/relevant for the purpose of evaluation for this bid, and are able to demonstrate affiliation.

If affiliation is necessary to demonstrate, is there FARs criteria you can share to ensure offeror is following the guidelines correctly?

57. 19AQMM22R0150_

RFP - 4.11 - C.

VOLUME III -

PRICE PROPOSAL

P. 63 / P 2 “Attachment 6 must be completed in its entirety” Can any of the IDIQ estimated quantities change, during the course of the contract vehicle? Is this anticipated or considered highly unlikely? If there are changes of scope requested (i.e. augmentation of qty demand for certain CLINs), would there be a contract amendment / change order to account for the increase/decrease?

Under an IDIQ contract, the Government is only bound to purchase the guaranteed minimum established in the schedule. The quantities in Attachment 6 are for evaluation purposes only and not guaranteed.

58. 19AQMM22R0150 –

ATTACHMENT 2

P 4-7 Description of Training Courses If anticipated training courses by the Offeror are more extensive in scope and training level, but are more expensive in cost, is there a trade-off that the evaluation committee is going to evaluate, and if so can the offerors be apprised with more information?

As stated in the RFP, the Government will conduct a best value tradeoff source selection.

Number

Page Number and Paragraph Solicitation Requirement Question / Comment DOS Response

59. 19AQMM22R0150 –

ATTACHMENT 2

P 1-3 2.1. Minimum Required Specification of the UAS itself

UAS Technical Specifications – if Offeror’s prospective product exceeds the technical operating expectations but is more expensive, is there any trade-off that the evaluation committee is going to evaluate? Is the preferred or more desirable outcome to simply meet the technical operating expectations with lowest possible price?

As stated in the RFP, the Government will conduct a best value tradeoff source selection.

60. 19AQMM22R0150_

Attachment 2_Specifications

P 63-64 Description of Mandatory “Training Specialist” and “Project Manager” Role

We did not see a language proficiency requirement with the job descriptions. Please clarify whether fluency in Spanish is a core requirement of the two roles, and whether you have any further recommendation on what kind of submittal information would be adequate to confirm fluency (also pertains to training courses, what criteria or paperwork would be needed to assess fluency? Declaration of the offeror only on behalf of the prospective staff?)

None apply to X07 and X08.