Questions_and_Answers_.doc

Questions and Answers 7/11/2017

1. In previous RFQ the boat draft requirement has been 8" to 18". The current RFQ has lessened the draft to 6" to 14". Since the required tow-speed threshold has also been increase to 40 know, the prior deeper draft element should yield a better performing boat.

The 8"-18' draft is sufficient. None of the tow targets have a deep draft. They all tend to ride high when they are towed.

2. The tow bracket requirement calls for 3/4" material with a backing plate.

Previously we have provided a towing bracket made of 5/8" material and believe the bracket has performed at or above expectations. While the increased size is relatively small, the thicker material will increase the cost. While the higher cost material can be provided, we suggest the marginal increase in strength does not justify the increase in cost. We suggest a requirement for 3/4" material may not be needed as long as the historic mission of the boats will not substantially change.

I misread the drawing specification on the tow eye thickness. We have used this tow eye in past test with no issues. 5/8" thickness is sufficient for tow operation. See attached "TOW EYE BRACKET" drawing package for clarification.

3. The expressed desire is to deliver all ten boats on the same day, unless delivered on a trailer. Since individual boat trailers are not required, we expect to deliver the ten boats on at least three, possible five, large commercial trailers. This will require appropriate lifting equipment and USAF staff be available at Eglin for the receiving process. After award, will there be an opportunity to discuss delivery of two or four boats at a time with the end user?

Our desire is to minimized the manpower required for offload . Multiple boats, 3-4 per delivery, is acceptable.

7/18/2017

Q: Are used/salvaged boats in excellent condition acceptable?

A: No

Q: Are they going to be used for boarding exercises or targets?

A: They are to be used as tow targets which the USAF will need to boarded at sea

Q: If they will be used for boarding exercises would you like any non-slip coatings applied?

A: No

1. Does the Air Force intend to power these boats with outboard motors or only tow them, or some of both?

A motor could be mounted either on a bracket or directly to the transom or may not. The boats will primarily be used as tow targets with no fuel on board.

2. No towed boat of this size will track properly at 40 knots in a Sea State 4 and not wander or fishtail without some sort of rudder, tiller and/or skeg(s). Fore-Aft trim and handling is also affected by how the boat is loaded. We believe that these boats will also need some sort of water ballast system that can be adjusted to facilitate proper trim and handling, especially if the boat(s) is/are not equipped with their own outboard motors with steering capability. The stern/transom weight of a large outboard motor plus a fuel load is substantial and must be compensated for if not installed/utilized. Your thoughts and guidance please.

The USAF will add rudder if required. Manufacturer may choose to add ballast as they see fit to ensure the boat be balanced for towing purposes as detailed in requirements document.

3. Can you provide further description the port and starboard hand rail you desire. Would you like a stern ladder for additional access?

Port and starboard hand rails should be attached to the center console and extend out from and above center console by a reasonable distance and be sturdy enough to facilitate safe personnel boarding at sea and provide a hand hold point with no sharp edges. No stern ladder is required.