AICRM Program Information 03.30.26 (002).docx

HH-60W Advanced Infrared Countermeasures (AIRCM) Program Information

1.0 Introduction

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), Helicopter Sustainment Branch (WIH) at Robins AFB, GA, is outlining the requirements for incorporating an Advanced Infrared Countermeasures (AIRCM) system onto the HH-60W fleet. The government is considering two potential solutions: the Common Infrared Countermeasure (CIRCM) system or the Distributed Aperture Infrared Countermeasure (DAIRCM) system. The selected AIRCM system will be provided to the contractor as Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE).

This effort is focused on identifying vendors with the comprehensive engineering, manufacturing, and technical depth to execute the entire integration scope of work. This includes designing all necessary aircraft modifications (A-Kit) through a full Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) effort, managing the production and delivery of the required A-Kits, and performing the complete system integration and final installation across the HH-60W fleet.

2.0 Background

The HH-60W helicopter currently lacks a capable AIRCM system. This absence significantly increases the risk of infrared-guided missile engagement, jeopardizing mission success, aircraft survivability, and crew safety. The integration of an AIRCM system is critical to mitigating this threat and ensuring the platform can operate effectively in contested environments.

3.0 Objective

The objective is to identify and assess potential industry sources capable of performing the Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E), A-Kit production, full system integration, and final installation required to incorporate a Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE) Advanced Infrared Countermeasures (AIRCM) system onto the HH-60W helicopter fleet. This market research is focused exclusively on the design, modification, and integration effort, not the procurement of the AIRCM system itself.

4.0 AIRCM Requirements

The Helicopter Sustainment Branch seeks a comprehensive and fully integrated AIRCM solution that meets the following key requirements. Solutions based on a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) are highly encouraged to ensure long-term adaptability and sustainment.

4.1 Key Capability Areas

· Platform-Specific Modifications: The contractor will be responsible for all structural, mechanical, and electrical modifications required for the HH-60W platform. This includes the analysis, design, and testing needed to verify that modifications do not adversely affect the aircraft's performance, structural integrity, or flight characteristics.

· System Integration and Interoperability: The effort requires the complete integration of the AIRCM system with all existing HH-60W avionics, mission computers, and data buses (e.g., MIL-STD-1553). The final solution must not degrade the performance of any existing system.

· Parts and Obsolescence Management: The contractor shall be responsible for establishing a Parts Management Program in accordance with MIL-STD-3018. This includes a proactive plan to manage Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) and prevent counterfeit parts from entering the supply chain.

4.2 Maturity Level Requirements

The Government is seeking mature, readily available solutions. Demonstrated capabilities are required at the time of proposal submittal, not projected future performance based on development timelines.

4.3 Data Rights and Licensing

The U.S. Government (USG) requires sufficient data rights to support long-term organic sustainment, future competitive procurements, and third-party modifications. This includes, but is not limited to:

· Technical Data (Hardware): All technical data related to the A-Kit and system installation, including models (e.g., CAD/SysML), drawings, specifications, analysis data, and manufacturing processes necessary to fabricate, install, and maintain the hardware.

· Computer Software & Documentation: All software/firmware deliverables and associated documentation, including executable code, source code, software description documents (SDDs), databases, and design details necessary to reproduce or recompile the software.

5.0 Core Capability Requirements

Respondents should provide evidence demonstrating their ability to successfully execute the core tasks of Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E), A-Kit Production, System Integration, and Installation. The capability statement should address:

· Experience in designing and developing structural and electrical modifications for military aircraft.

· Manufacturing capabilities for producing aircraft modification kits, including relevant quality certifications (e.g., AS9100).

· Specific experience with the HH-60W platform's mechanical, electrical, power, and data bus architecture.

· A detailed process for both prototype and production-level installations of complex electronic systems.

6.0 Schedule Information

· Target Schedule: For planning purposes, the Government's target is to have a contract awarded in the second quarter of FY27.

· Alternative Schedule: Respondents are strongly encouraged to provide an alternative, accelerated schedule if feasible. Any proposed acceleration must clearly identify the key drivers, assumptions, and the earliest feasible date for the delivery of the First Article A-Kit.

7.0 Response Guidelines

Respondents shall submit evidence demonstrating their current capabilities to design, manufacture, install, and sustain AIRCM systems. Submissions should include relevant partnership information to demonstrate the ability to deliver a complete, integrated solution. All documents should be submitted in a readable PDF format, with a total page limit of 15 pages.

8.0 Additional Information

· Future Participation: Failure to respond to a Sources Sought Notice does not preclude participation in any future Request for Proposal (RFP).

· Small Business Participation: Small businesses are highly encouraged to respond to announcements. This input will assist in determining potential levels of competition and establishing subcontracting plan goals.

· Acquisition Strategy: The acquisition strategy for this requirement is still under development. Market research results will inform the final determination.

· Prime/Subcontractor Interest: Respondents should now indicate whether they are interested in serving as a prime contractor or a subcontractor for this requirement.

8.1 FAR 15.201(e) Compliance: In accordance with FAR 15.201(e), responses to market research notices are not considered offers and cannot be accepted by the U.S. Government to form a binding contract.

8.2 SAM.gov Monitoring: It is the responsibility of all interested parties to monitor the System for Award Management (SAM) database at sam.gov for any additional information pertaining to this program.

9.0 Disclaimers

· This is for Informational Purposes Only: This document is not a Request for Quotation (RFQ), Request for Proposal (RFP), or an invitation to bid. It does not obligate the Government to issue a solicitation or award a contract.

· No Proposals Accepted: Unsolicited proposals will not be considered. The Government will not be responsible for any costs incurred by respondents in furnishing information.