Final updated QA(137)posted 13Jan23.xlsx
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Sheet1 Sol # FA4801-23-R-0002 Updated Q&As - Posted 13 Jan 2023 Updates are in RED text with comments
| # | Reference | Question | Answer | Atch |
| 1 | Solicitation, subparagraph (b), pg 60 | Since the current RPAT program is encumbered by an existing CBA, request the USG provide validation that the RPATS program is considered a service contract and that the current Presidential Executive Order (EO) regarding Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers is incorporated as part of this solicitation. | DOL has not issued a final ruling on EO14055 and in turn reflected in the FAR, which normally takes another 60 days once DOL has issues its final ruling. Until such time, there is no contractual authority to incorporate EO14055 at the present time. | |
| 2 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2022 | Can the Government please clarify its expectation for the length of time deemed appropriate for a response to each of the 5 instances an immediate response is required in hours or days? | Question is unclear; Government could not respond. | |
| 3 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2022 | Is the assumption that transition will be a two-week duration correct? If Yes, does the Government intend to create a separate CLIN for transition, or will it be included in the base year? | PWS 4.13, Transition Plan; para 4.13.1 has been updated (see Amd 0002). | |
| 4 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 3 | It is understood Contractors will plan for 16-hour training days but the actual days of work are not specifically defined in the PWS. Request the USG confirm the 16-hour training days are 5, 6, or 7 days per week. | Review PWS paragraph 4.4.5. | |
| 5 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 3 | (1) Request the USG provide a listing of any projected training outside the local Holloman AFB area and (2) request the USG validate any changes directed by the contracts officer to support training outside the Holloman AFB local area will be considered contract changes (ie. travel) requiring contract change proposals to include updated pricing and manning analysis be provided by the contractor. | PWS Section 1.4, Contractor Travel (not on page 3) may be needed once or twice during the entire contract period. A travel CLIN has been added. (see Amd 0002) |
6 PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 3 (1) What is the contractor Management Plan submission suspense?
(2) Is this CDRL a USG approval item?
(3) What is the governing DI, etc.? (1) Review Addendums 52.212-1 & 52.212-2
(2) There are no CDRLs in this contract
(3) The solicitation
| 7 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, General | Request the USG provide a program summary of all required CDRLs to include the data usually presented via the DD Form 1423-1. | There ae no CDRLs in this contract |
| 8 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 3 | To ensure contractor vetting of potential employees, request the USG provide a detailed listing of all objective measures used by Holloman AFB as "internal checks" in determining if the USG will allow a prospective employee to become an RPATS team member. If attachment 3, NCIC Base Access, fully encompasses all base access requirements, please confirm. | Attachment 3, NCIC Base Access is one way contractors can use to vet potential employees. It is the contractors' responsibility to |
determine prospective employees based on all the documents provided within the solicitation.
9 PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023 Request additional information as noted below in circumstances when the USG does NOT elect to send Contractor personnel TDY to become SME for updated program syllabus, HW or SW udpates:
(1) request the USG provide discussion on SMO training for syllabus updates; will these updates be implemented immediately upon release or will the RPATS Contractor receive copies of the syllabus updates prior to implementation dates to allow for better pre-planning of SMO training flow?
(2) on new hardware and software updates, request the USG validate that outside contractors providing updates to training devices or LMS/KMS will also be required to provide SMO training. (1) Depending on particular need of training (e.g. simple to complex) would determine SME training to other employees.
(2) Unclear as to what "LMS/KMS" is; Government could not respond.
10 PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 4 To allow offerors to properly estimate manning workloads, request the USG provide a roster of the current RPATS syllabus training events to include the required SMO preparation, execution, and debrief timing and a copy of the current FY PFT training plan that shows the projected training requirements and courses through the year. 3 attachment added:
-AETC MQ9 IQT Syllabus 10 Aug;
-redacted-Signed_ETP_for_TM_3;
| -Typical Single Squadron Schedule. | X | ||||
| 11 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 5 | Request the USG provide a copy of the current MQ-9 Syllabus or establish a reading room for all offerors to provide needed insight into the training load that builds to the 80 events per day. | See answer to #10. | X | |
| 12 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 5 | Request additional discussion from the USG regarding this requirement and how it will be administered as a CCP and allow the Contractor the opportunity to properly price any impacts of the GT 25% change in the RPATS program. | Question is unclear; Government could not respond. | ||
| 13 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 6 | Request the USG provide a listing of the number of all RPATS training devices and instructor stations by type and by location as they support the program. | Bldg 531 = 12 MSAT & 10 DTT; Bldg 319 = 3 MSAT; GCS farm = up to 7 MJAT. (see attachment: RPATS Device Graphic) | X | |
| 14 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 6 | Request USG confirmation the DTT setup binders are considered USG property and will convey to the successor contractor during contract transition. | Correct | ||
| 15 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 9 | It appears to be a simple admin item; MSO was used when SMO was planned. Please confirm. | PWS corrected to SMO (see Amd 0002) | ||
| 16 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 14 | For administrative experience of non-SMO personnel, the experience durations are normally six (6) months but the noted PWS paragraph requires six (6) years of admin experience on PEX/GTIMS. If the USG does indeed mean 6 years and to ensure current personnel will not be displaced from their position due to not meeting 1.3.3.2.1 requirements, request USG confirmation that all current DOT/CCV/OGVL RPATS personnel do have more than 6 years experience with PEX/GTIMS. | No typo for para 1.3.3.2.1 - six (6) years is correct. | ||
| 17 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 15 | Request confirmation if the USG's intent on the two PWS experience items referenced is that both are required or only one is required to be considered for SATCC duty. As written it appears the USG is requesting the SATCC be both ATC experienced and professional aviator experienced. | Prior ATC qualification is desired, but not required if experience in controlling air space can be demonstrated. | ||
| 18 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 23 | This PWS paragraph appears to include a CDRL requirement for a Contractor-developed program Safety Plan. Request the USG provide DD Form 1423-1 CDRL/DID requirements data to allow offerors to fully understand the requirements of this plan. | There is no CDRL for the safety plan; submit plan IAW paragraph 4.10.3 | ||
| 19 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, pg 24 | This lead-in sentence seems to not link to the following paragraph text. It appears the paragraph is working to require the Contractor to establish a Training and Certification Plan (T&CP) for SMO, STD, and IMD personnel but it is not very clear in the requirement direction. Recommend rewording the intro sentence to eliminate confusion and disconnects that can be created by the existing text. | Question is unclear; Government could not respond. | ||
| 20 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, Atch B | Request the USG provide a clear demarcation of which items presented in the example table are derived from historical program data and which items presented are USG estimated values. | Appendix B is an estimated/sample of shifts/workload data, which should aid in the offeror to adequately prefer proposal. | ||
| 21 | PWS Dated 8 Mar 2023, Atch C | Request the USG update the PWS to provide a legible copy of the provided Attach C example. | another copy is not available; try zooming in to 150% or more | ||
| 22 | New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax | Due to the nature of taxes and the contractors' absolute inability to control the adjustment of taxation rates, will the Government consider adding a Cost Reimbursable No Fee (CRNF) CLIN to allow for the costs of the NMGRT to be reimbursed dollar for dollar? This would ensure a best value realization by the Government and limit undue risk for contractors in the event tax rates increase or policy changes occur on how receipts are calculated. | As a FFP contract, a CRNF CLIN will not be included to add for NMGRT. Offerors should review NMGRT history in order to propose monthly pricing. | ||
| 23 | CBA | Will the Government, with the RASSEA Union's consent, release a seniority list for its union members on this contract? We are asking the Government to release this data through official means. Contacting the union directly could be considered on a case-by-case basis by the union, therefore creating pricing disadvantages for offerors who are not provided this data. If the Union does not consent or the Government is not inclined to provide, we will estimate to the best of our ability the seniority levels for each employee. As such, we request the Government acknowledge the ability for contractors to submit a Request for Equitable Adjustment (REA) for CBA compensable benefits should a seniority list not be provided. | No. FAR 52.222-41(n) is clear that the list is obtainable and releasable by the government only to the successor contractor. There is no authority for the government to otherwise obtain this data, nor does either FAR 52.222-41 or -43 provide for an REA associated with this data. | ||
| 24 | CBA | If the Government is unable to provide a seniority list by contract position, will the Government provide a percentage of the number of employees who have less than 5 years of service and are entitled to 160 hours of PTO, 5-14 Years of service and are entitled to 200 hours of PTO, and 15 plus years of service and are entitled to 240 hours of PTO? | No. FAR 52.222-41(n) is clear that the list is obtainable and releasable by the government only to the successor contractor. | ||
| 25 | CBA | If the Government is unable to provide a seniority list by position, request the USG provide the median and mean seniority dates for the existing RPATS workforce to allow offerors the ability to more accurately estimate the bonafide fringe of these personnel. | No. See answers above. These employees are not government employees. The government does not have nor will it obtain this data. | ||
| 26 | CBA | Will the Government recognize and accept a Request for Equitable Adjustment (REA) on the base year period of performance understanding a newly required contract will require an immediate CBA negotiation? | The government will make no such commitment. Offerors are advised to become familiar with Section 4(c) of the SCA and the successorship concept. | ||
| 27 | CBA | It is recognized that the current RPATS program is being executed by a prime contractor and possibly additonal subcontractor(s). The RPATS solicitation documents only present a single program CBA. In order for offerors to properly calculate bonafide fringe benefits, request the USG provide copies of all existing CBAs in effect for the RPATS workforce or provide the documentation for any "Me Too" acceptance of the existing TRG-Assosciation CBA by the current subcontractor(s). | There is only one single program CBA, which was posted. |
For positions not listed in the CBA, offerors may utilize the added attachment: Atch 2.1, WD 2015-5455 Rev 20_07.19.2022_Amd 0002 (see Amd 0002) or posted CBA using like positions.
28 CBA/Pricing The current CBA expiration will occur during the base year. We understand based on Attch 1.1 RPATS Bid Sheet, the Government is not requiring base wage rates be provided along with any supporting price backup for indirect rates. For purposes of developing an offeror's overall price, shall we utilize the final Calendar Year 2023 rates found in the CBA until a new CBA can be negotiated? Or will the Government allow offerors to provide comparable SCA rates for the given labor categories? The ability to utilize SCA rates once the CBA expires could be used as a scheme by some offerors in order to get to a lower evaluated price, knowing it will be adjusted in an REA. Asking the Government to level the playing field from this perspective. Recommend enforcing the use of CY 23 rates for all CBA positions. Offerors are reminded that section 4(c) of the SCA will apply; CBA rates will remain effective even if the CBA expires for a period of time. Offerors are also reminded of 52.222-43(b).
All offerors should bid accordingly per the CBA in the bidder’s library unless otherwise noted by the Government.
It would be advantages for the successor to wait until they get closer to when OY1 will be exercised to negotiate a new CBA since they would be liable for paying any such increases in the interim and no adjustment would be warranted as a result.
29 PWS Dated 8 Mar 2022 Para. 1.2.10 SATCC Can the Government confirm if this position is included in the CBA? If so, can the Government clarify what labor category this position is presently mapped against? SATCC is a new position and not on the current CBA
It is the contractor's responsibility to determine and choose the appropriate job classification from the SCA WD for positions that will be utilized outside the union’s jurisdiction and the respective bargaining unit and/or the successor contractor, once performance has started will have to initiate a conformance request via SF1444 to account for any unlisted classifications per the CBA.
30 PWS Dated 8 Mar 2022 Para. 1.2.5 Admin Support, Mission Support Scheduler (MSS) Can the Government confirm if this position is included in the CBA? If so, can the Government clarify what labor category this position is presently mapped against? MSS is a new position and not on the current CBA
See Answer to #29.
| 31 | General Question | Can the Government please confirm no contractor-furnished tools, equipment, software, or other consumables (other than those required in the CBA) are required to be provided by the contractor? | Offers should not rely on the CBA and should refer to PWS. |
| 32 | PWS, Para. 4.11 Training | Will Government-furnished equipment be made available (MACE, VRSG, VM, JMDS and/or other required equipment) in order to conduct training? We assume the Government will not include a cost to utilize these assets but understand any training that is required will be at the contractor's expense in the form of non-billable labor costs. | Yes, a limited number (NTE 3) MSAT devices would be made available for Contractor use in initial training. |
| 33 | ITO 13.i Proposal Format | Will these fold-out pages count as only one page or as two? | a fold-out page will count as one page |
| 34 | ITO 13.ii Proposal Format | Will the Government allow font smaller than pitch 11 for headers/footers? | headers and footers font size can be either 10 or 11 pitch |
| 35 | ITO 13.ii Proposal Format | Will the Government allow font smaller than pitch 11 to be used within tables, charts, diagrams, and figures? | Tables, charts, diagrams and figures, the font size may be as small as 10 pitch |
| 36 | PWS Para. 1.2.2.10 & 1.2.10.5 | Can the Government confirm if the 60 day period is based on calendar days or work days from the Option CLIN execution? | reference PWS 4.5, Hours of Operation |
| 37 | ADDENDUM TO 52.212-2, EVALUATION-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (NOV 2021) | Subfactor 1 Management Plan/Management Infrastructure states the following: |
“The offeror must show that their management plan/infrastructure has been effective and used in the past. The plan included the capacity to address work increase needs in accordance with the PWS. The offeror will present the detailed planned with any supporting documentation (e.g., Work Schedules, Contact Rosters, and Evaluation Criteria for employees) to effectively show their Management Plan and Infrastructure.”
This type of evaluation criteria favors the incumbent team. Only the incumbent team will have a management plan that has been used in the past for this effort. Bidders that are not on the incumbent team can provide tailored plans that can be applied to support the very specific requirements on this contract. However, Work Schedules, Contact Rosters, and Evaluation Criteria for employees relative to this effort are artifacts that can only be produced and submitted by the incumbent team. How does the government plan to remove this disadvantage for interested bidders who are not on the incumbent’s team? This evaluation criteria does not favor the incumbent.
Offerors are expected to have had a previous management plan/infrastructure on other contracts in which the plan included the capacity to address work increase needs in accordance its PWS/SOW. Therefore the offeror would present the detailed planned with any supporting documentation (e.g., Work Schedules, Contact Rosters, and Evaluation Criteria for employees) that effectively shows their Management Plan and Infrastructure.
38 ADDENDUM TO 52.212-2, EVALUATION-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (NOV 2021) Subfactor 3 Staffing and Retention Plan states the following:
“Offeror showed their staffing and retention plan has been used for the past two years maintaining a 95% fill rate.”
| Please clarify how the government intends to ensure there is no disadvantage when evaluating this requirement for bidders who are not bidding as the incumbent team for this opportunity. Only the incumbent’s team would be able to show a 95% fill rate relative to positions required for this specific contract and therefore would likely receive a higher rating. Please consider removing the 95% requirement to eliminate the disadvantage to non-incumbent bidders. | See Answer #37, concept is the same for Staffing and Retention Plan | |||
| 39 | General | The posting on SAM.gov (05 December 2022) for this acquisition noted that "Anticipated Site Visit is cancelled. No Site Visit will be conducted." This gives the incumbant team a great advantage because the site visit would give potential bidders insight into device quantities, device location, operational environment, logistics, etc. How does the contracting team plan to ensure this remains a fair acquisition? Are there perhaps Industry Day slides that contain this information that can be posted? | The USG determined there wasn't an advantage to having an on-site site visit. Attachment 'RPATS Device Graphic', has been added, as listed in Answer #13. | |
| 40 | PWS Section 1.0 | This section states: |
"The Contractor shall provide enough personnel for 80 training events per day as either MQ-9 Aircrew Training Device (ATD) events (12 to 15 concurrent, up to 22 concurrent on non-flying days), MQ-9 flightline events (7 to 12 concurrent), or Desktop Trainer (DTT) events throughout a 16 hour training day."
| Does this mean that there are 22 ATDs available to support non-flying days? How many of these ATDs are redirected to support flight training? Do the flightline events utilize any of the training assets used to provide ATD training? Please provide the total number of ATDs currently in place at the site. Please identify how many of those ATDs can also be configured to support flight training. This is key information currently only available to the incumbent team. | There are 12 MSAT ATD located in Bldg 513 and an additional 3 MSAT ATD located in Bldg 319. These devices are available and scheduled for use during days when live flying is accomplished. When weather, maintenance or other factors impact the ability to live fly, up to 7 GCS may be converted to MJAT ATD to accomplish the mission. | |||
| 41 | PWS Section 1.2.10 | What is the operational use for the SATCC? Does each ATD event require dedicated support from a SATCC? Does the SATCC need to be located in the same facility as the event being supported? Does the SATCC need to be located in the same bay? Can one SATCC support multiple unrelated events at the same time? How many SATCCs does the government need? What station do they use? Has an ATC station been added to the system? Can a single station be configured to support multiple ATDs? | The intent of the SATCC is to mimic live interactions student aircrew should expect from Air Traffic Controllers. As such, each SATCC will interact with 3 to 4 training aircrew simultaneously at any given time via radio suites configured to simulate actual radio transmissions in a terminal airfield environment or within national airspace. The SATCC will not be located within the ATD bays. All interaction will be via radio for a remote location elsewhere in the building or another building. | |
| 42 | PWS Section 1.2.2.2 | This section states: |
"DTT events are comprised of up to ten (10) small student ATDs and up to two (2) instructor ATDs in a single room designed to run concurrently."
| How many total DTT sets (10 student/2instructors) are at each facility. Does 1 DTT event typically consist of 5 students and 1 instructor? What resources does the typical DTT event consist of? | A standard DTT Lab will consist of 9-10 DTT consoles. Each console supports training of a single aircrew (Pilot/Sensor Operator). DTT Labs will be utilized primarily during the teaching of academics portions of the syllabus, but allows hand-on tactile training while receiving the academics instruction. | |||
| 43 | General | Some of the evaluation criteria favors the incumbent team. The PWS is ambiguous as to device quantities and use cases for each ATD. The only way to help make this a fair acquisition is to allow industry to participate in a site visit or provide some type of bidders library/documentation. Recommend giving bidders an opportunity to participate in a site visit. | See Answer #39. | |
| 44 | PWS 1.4 | While syllabus changes occur locally, there is not any way to determine travel associated w/ HW/SW changes. No Contractor Travel CLIN. Will Govt provide Cost Reimbursable (or other) CLIN to cover required travel? | The only contractor travel authorized is IAW 4.11, Training | |
| 45 | CBA | The last valid CBA rates for the RPATS effort are for the period: 01/01/23 thru 12/31/23. Accordingly, since the Base Year for the proposed RPATS follow-on begins July 2023, the rates to be proposed would intuitively be from the CBA listing for 01/01/2023 thru 12/31/2023. Therefore, is it safe to assume that no escalation to the CBA and/or SCLS rates - beyond the 2023 Calendar year – will be incorporated pursuant FAR 52.222-43: “(b) The Contractor warrants that the prices in this contract do not include any allowance for any contingency to cover increased costs for which adjustment is provided under this clause”? | That is a correct interpretation. |
Refer back to Answer #26. Otherwise the wage rates per the appliable incumbent’s CBA will remain in effect for the base year POP and will not be update until OY1 is exercised provided a new CBA has been negotiated.
46 PWS Para 1.0 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES Does this mean Para 1.0 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES should state:
"… The Contractor shall provide enough personnel for 80 training events per day throughout a 16 hour training day as either:
(1). Flying days as 50 to 60 MQ-9 Aircrew Training Device (ATD) events (12 to 15 concurrent), 20 to 30 MQ-9 flightline events (7 to 12 concurrent), 0 to 10 Desktop Trainers (DTT) syllabus events;
(2) Non-Flying days as 70 to 80 MQ-9 ATD events (12 to 22 concurrent), 0 to 10 DTT syllabus events.
The Contractor shall also provide administrative support staff at the squadron level (for squadron non-syllabus DTT events) in accordance with (IAW) this Performance Work Statement (PWS). The squadron non-syllabus DTT events do not count towards the 80 training events per day.
REASONS.
Para 1.0 states "… The Contractor shall provide enough personnel for 80 training events per day as either MQ-9 Aircrew Training Device (ATD) events (12 to 15 concurrent, up to 22 concurrent on non-flying days), MQ-9 flightline events (7 to 12 concurrent), or Desktop Trainer (DTT) events throughout a 16 hour training day. The Contractor shall also provide administrative support staff at the squadron level in accordance with (IAW) this Performance Work Statement (PWS).".
Para 1.2.2.1.1 states "... Support for squadron DTTs does not count towards daily events. ...".
Para 1.2.5.1 states "A typically schedule will require daily support for 50-60 ATD events and 20-30 flightline events per day for a 80 event per day maximum. These events are 100% interchangeable at the government’s discretion. ...".
| Contractor is expected to support up to 80 total events per day and up to 22 simultaneous events (12 MSAT in Bldg 513, 3 MSAT in Bldg 319 and 7 MJAT in GCS Farm). | ||
| 47 | PWS Para 1.0 DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES; Appendix E - Example SEAL. | Request a copy of the MQ-9 Syllabus training schedule or MQ-9 training schedule by training devices (ATDs, MQ-9 flightline devices, DTTs) for the following years (or available MQ-9 training schedule and any currently planned changes for the following years): |
Current year, Base Year (01 JUL 2023 - 30 JUN 2024), Option Year 1 (01 JUL 2024 - 30 JUN 2025), Option Year 2 (01 JUL 2025 - 30 JUN 2026), Option Year 3 (01 JUL 2026 - 30 JUN 2027), Option Year 4 (01 JUL 2027 - 30 JUN 2028).
REASONS.
| In order to determine the Flying and Non-Flying days nominal and worst-case quantities of ATD, MQ-9 flightline events, DTT syllabus events; and, hopefully also the non-syllabus student or instructor DTT events. | Syllabus training schedules are not available for Option years, as student load is not known. No matter the course schedule, the RPATS contract is based on training events per day (NTE 80) on Base CLIN. | ||
| 48 | PWS Para 1.2.10 "Simulated Air Traffic Control Center (SATCC)" and Paras 1.2.10.1 through 1.2.10.4. | Are the ATD and DTT events missions ATC real-time communications in the same ATC Control Center Sector (i.e. with the same ATC Control Center Sector) and thus only one SATCC needed per each 8 hour shift of a 16 hour training day? |
Or, is a separate SATCC needed for each concurrent/simultaneous event - for the SATCC constant presence of real-time tactical communciations and injection of pre-planned inputs during the 5 simultaneous events (para 1.2.10.1 through 1.2.10.4).
REASONS. Para 1.2.10 through 1.2.10.4 states the following:
"1.2.10 Simulated Air Traffic Control Center (SATCC)
1.2.10.1 The primary duty of the SATCC is to provide real time communcations support for only ATD or DTT events.
SATCC support may include the following types of events when accomplished in ATD or DTT setting: EPE, LR, CT, MQ-9 Formal Training Unit (FTU) syllabus missions, student practice missions, and DV and/or guest demonstrations.
Events will last between 2.0 to 3.0 hours.
1.2.10.2 SATCC will maintain a constant presence during the execution of the scheduled mission events in order to provide real-time tactical communications as directed by the instructor or CT crew in accordance with the SEAL.
1.2.10.3 The SATCC will inject pre-planned inputs taken from scripts provided by the Government via voice communications (radio) and MIRC. The SATCC will simulate Air Traffic Control (ATC) that normally interacts with RPA mission crews as detailed in the mission scenario dance cards and instructor pilot/sensor guidance.
| 1.2.10.4 The SATCC will cover a 16 hour training day and support 5 simultaneious events, as directed by the FTU.". | SATCC personnel will support up to 5 events per controller at any given time and collectively support up to 80 events per day. | ||
| 49 | PWS Para 1.2.2.1.1 "ATD." | What is the total quantity of ATD devices? |
What is the quantity of ATD devices per each ATD building?
REASONS.
The total quantity of ATD devices is not defined in the PWS. Nor, the quantity of ATD devices in each building.
Para 1.2.2.1.1 "ATD" states that "ATDs are located in either Building 513, Building 319 (classified simulators), or inside a Ground Control Station (GCS). ..." - BUT does not identify the total quantity of ATDs, nor the quantity of ATDs in each building.
| 12 MSAT in Bldg 513, 3 MSAT in Bldg 319 and 7 MJAT in GCS Farm | ||
| 50 | PWS Para 1.2.2.1.2 "Flightline." | What is the total quantity of MQ-9 flight line MQ-9 aircraft or devices available for MQ-9 flight line events? |
REASONS.
The total quantity of MQ-9 flight line MQ-9 aircraft or devices available for MQ-9 flightline events: is not defined in the PWS.
Para 1.0 defines "… 7 to 12 concurrent MQ-9 flightline events …".
Para 1.2.2.1.1 states "... Support for squadron DTTs does not count towards daily events. ...".
Para 1.2.5.1 states "A typically schedule will require daily support for 50-60 ATD events and 20-30 flightline events per day for a 80 event per day maximum. These events are 100% interchangeable at the government’s discretion. ...".
| 12 MSAT in Bldg 513, 3 MSAT in Bldg 319 and 7 MJAT in GCS Farm | ||
| 51 | PWS Para 1.2.2.2 "DTT." | What is the total quantity of DTT devices? |
In what building(s) are the DTT devices located, and how many are in each building?
REASONS.
The total quantity of DTT devices is not defined in the PWS. Nor, the building location(s) and quantity of DTT devices in each building.
Para 1.2.2.2 states ".. DTT events are comprised of up to ten (10) small student ATDs and up to two (2) instructor ATDs in a single room designed to run concurrently. When scheduled as a syllabus or CT event, the DTTs running concurrently in a single room will count as a single event within the timeframe listed in paragraph 1.2.2. ...".
| Currently, there are 10 DTT located in Bldg 513, but that number will grow to ~30 (3 labs of 10 ea) during the contract period. | ||
| 52 | PWS Para 1.3.2.4 “Desired Qualifications:” and Para 1.3.2.5 and Para 1.3.2.6. | Para 1.3.2.4 “Desired Qualifications:” should it include the following under it: |
Para 1.3.2.5 (which needs to be renumbered as 1.3.2.4.1)?
Or Para 1.3.2.5 and 1.3.2.6 (which is what is assumed) (which needs to be renumbered as 1.3.2.4.1 and 1.3.2.4.2, respectively)?
| Paragraphs have been renumber (see Amd 0002) | ||
| 53 | PWS Appendix B "Estimated/ Sample of Shifts/Workload Data". | The PWS Appendix B "Estimated/Sample of Shifts/Workload Data" table/chart is missing the SATCC job type/position. |
REQUEST: APPENDIX B BE REVISED to include the USAF historical/estimated data for SATCC job type/position (similar to the other job types/positions).
REASONS.
(1). PWS Appendix B lists the following job types/positions: Site-Lead, SMO, STP, IMD, MSS, DOT, CCV, OGVL, and SDD. Appendix B identifies for each of these job types (positions): "Number of Positions, "Hours per Day", Number of Days per Week", Total Hours per Week".
(2). PWS Appendix B identifies below the table/chart: "This is a chart of historical and estimated data of positions. The government in no way is endorsing this data as the required number of personnel. Each offeror is responsible to use his/her own approach to determine the adequate number of personnel required to ensure mission success. The Contractor must submit their organizational plan (ref. Para 1.1.2) to incorporate the positions in accordance with this PWS.".
| SATCC is a new requirements with no historical documentation, but should be assumed to be a duty day similar to the SMO. | ||
| 54 | PWS Appendix B "Estimated/Sample of Shifts/Workload Data". | Does the PWS Appendix B "Estimated/Sample of Shifts/Workload Data" table/chart of historical and estimated data of positions, include the support for squadron DTTs which are not counted towards the 80 daily syllabus events of para 1.0, para 1.2.2.1.1, and para 1.2.5.1. |
REASONS.
(1). Para 1.0 states "The Contractor shall provide enough personnel for 80 training events per day ... throughout a 16 hour training day. The Contractor shall also provide administrative support staff at the squadron level in accordance with (IAW) this Performance Work Statement (PWS).".
(2). Para 1.2.2.1.1 states "The 6 ATKS, 9 ATKS, and 29 ATKS have individual standalone DTTs ready for instructor or student practice. From 0600 to 1800, the DTTs will be pre-loaded with a profile as directed by the COR for crew practice. ... Support for squadron DTTs does not count towards daily events.".
(3). Para 1.2.5.1 states "A typically schedule will require daily support for 50-60 ATD events and 20-30 flightline events per day for a 80 event per day maximum. These events are 100% interchangeable at the government’s discretion. ...".
(x). PWS Appendix B identifies below the table/chart: "This is a chart of historical and estimated data of positions. The government in no way is endorsing this data as the required number of personnel. Each offeror is responsible to use his/her own approach to determine the adequate number of personnel required to ensure mission success.
| DTT support does not have historical data. It should be assumed that DTT support would be equal to a normal ATD event. | ||
| 55 | PWS 4.1.2 Clearance Requirments | “The Contractor shall possess a Facility Clearance at the classification level of SECRET at the time of the proposal due date. The Contractor shall apply for appropriate personnel security clearances within 5days after award of the contract. Contractor employees must have a SECRET clearance at a minimum for the positions which require such clearance. The Government shall conduct and assume all costs for the background investigations for the required clearances. Due to costs involved with security investigations, requests for Contractor security clearances shall be kept to an absolute minimum necessary to perform contract requirements.” |
Can the Subcontractor provide proof of their Secret Facility Clearance while the Prime Contractor is in the process of being sponsored by the Subcontractor? The Prime Contractor is a Protegee and the Subcontractor is the mentor. As you know the Government will not afford the cost of a Secret Facility Clearance without a valid contract and executed DD Form 254. IAW section 4.3 of DODM 5220.32, Vol 1, National Industrial Security Program: Industrial Security Procedures for Government Activities a contractor cannot sponsor another contractor for a Facility Security Clearance (FCL) .
Government Contracting Agency must submit a request to DSS to sponsor the Company for a FCL; which Holloman will not request.
| 56 | Security Clearance Question | Can we use a DD245 for the RPATS contract to sponsor a company in obtaining an Facility Security Clearance? | See Answer to #55 |
| 57 | General Question | Will there be sponsorship for this contract | No. |
| 58 | Page Limitations on Proposal | What is the page limitations on the Request for Proposal. | Refer to Amendment 1 on SAM Solicitation. |
| 59 | Font Size on Proposal | What is the minimum font size for figures and tables? | The font size for the Technical Proposal is Times New Roman, size 11 pt font. |
| 60 | As defined in the current contract PWS paragraph 1.2.3.6 dated 12 July 2021 | Requsting Monthly reports for the last 12 months. | Not providing past utilization reports, as it does not reflect future demands. |
| 61 | As defined in current contract PWS paragraph 1.2.3.1 dated 12 July 2021 | Requesting Monthly PMATS utilization reports for the last 12 months. | Not providing past utilization reports, as it does not reflect future demands. |
| 62 | Report Request | Requsting a sample weekly or monthly training event schedule. | Provided; see Answer to #10 |
| 63 | Syllabus Request | Requesting the current MQ-9 syllabus. | Provided; see Answer to #10 |
| 64 | Building Floor Plan Requested | Current number of Aircrew Training Devices (ATDs) located in Bldg 513, Bldg 319 (classified simulators), and GCS (PWS 1.2.2.1). This information is critical for bidders to develop a logical sample work schedule as requested in the solicitation for Technical Volume; Subfactor 1 (Management Plan/Management Infrastructure). A floor plan (if available) for Bldg 513 and Bldg 319 would also be useful. | Bldg 513 = 12 ATD; Bldg 319 = 3 ATD |
See Answer to #13
| 65 | Amendment #1, para (b) (13) (i) | Page limit for the proposal is stated as 15 pages. Will the government confirm the 15-page limit refers only to Part I – Technical Proposal? | The government will allow 15 pages for Part I - Technical Proposal. |
| 66 | Amendment #1, para (13) (ii) | Specifies proposals pages will be typed with a minimum of font pitch size 11, Times New Roman type, with minimum one-inch margins. There is no mention of graphics, charts, or call outs. | para (13)(i) states |
(i) Page. The proposal page size will be 8 1/2" x 11", except for fold-outs used for charts, tables or diagrams, which may not exceed 11" x 17".
| 67 | Amendment #1, para (13) (ii) | Is the Compliance Matrix in Part I excluded from the page count? | Yes. |
| 68 | Amendment #1, para (15) (ii) (C) | Specifies Teaming Agreements and Narratives shall be submitted as part of the proposal in Part II – Past Performance (Factor 2). It further clarifies that The Government is interested in the roles, responsibilities, and distribution of effort (by type and percentage) between the parties in performance of the Government's requirement and if the agreement does not go into this detail, then a narrative must also be included in order for the Government's understanding of your proposal. | That is correct; plus, it further states: |
This narrative and/or Teaming Agreement will not count against the stated page size limitation. If this is not submitted with your proposal, your proposal will be considered non-responsive.
| 69 | Amendment #1, para (17), (ii), (C) & P.8, (6), (iii) | Teaming Agreement/JV documentation requirements are listed in ITO as a Part III requirement while Evaluation criteria has requirement listed under Part II. Can the government please clarify if they would prefer teaming agreement/JV documentation attached in Part II or Part III? | Teaming Agreement/JV documentation as listed in Addendum to 52.212-1,(b)(15) Part II-Past Performance (Factor 2), para (iii) AND 52.212-1,(b)(17) Submission Requirements may be submitted with Part II (not part of PP page count) OR as a separate Part title: Teaming Agreement/JV Documentation. |
| 70 | Amendment #1, para (17) Submission Requirements | Can the Government confirm PDF files are acceptable for electronic proposal documents? | PDF files are acceptable; except for Atch 1.1._RPATS_Bid Schedule, which needs to remain as an Excel document (.xlsx) |
| 71 | Attachment #1, PWS, para 1.1.3, 1.1.3.1, and 1.3.4 | PWS 1.1.3 and 1.1.3.1 both state Simulator Duty Director (SDD) require a Secret clearance. Para 1.3 CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS, sub-para 1.3.4, MSS (1.2.5), SDD (1.2.9), does not include a SECRET security clearance requirement for the SDD. | added PWS 1.3.4.7 Minimum of SECRET Security Clearance |
| 72 | Will the Government clarify if the Simulator Duty Director (SDD) position requires a SECRET security clearance? | Correct. | |
| 73 | Attachment 1, PWS, para 1.2 KEY PERSONNEL | Does the Government require resumes, Letters of Intent, or both for the identified key personnel? | Do not submit resumes; letters of intent are okay. |
There is no requirement to identify key personnel by name in proposal submission.
| 74 | Attachment #1, PWS, para 1.2.6, Administrative Support, Flight Training (DOT) Program | Can government please confirm one standalone admin is required for each ATKS (total 3)? | this is a performance based acquisition; it is the offeror responsibility to determine based on the information provided in the solicitation package |
| 75 | Attachment #1, PWS, para 1.2.7, Administrative Support, Squadron Standardization and Evaluation (CCV) Program | Can government please confirm one standalone admin is required for each ATKS (total 3). | this is a performance based acquisition; it is the offeror responsibility to determine based on the information provided in the solicitation package |
| 76 | Attachment 1, PWS, Appendix B, Estimated Sample of Shifts/Workload Data | Estimated workload data is provided for all of the positions except the SATCC position. Will the Government provide expected workload data for the SATCC position? | SATCC is a new requirement and is not in the current CBA. SATCC will support all scheduled events for a day on a NTE 5 to 1 ratio…up to 80 events per day |
| 77 | Attachment #4 Past Performance Information Sheet | Paragraph d states the completion date. This is followed by Paragraph E., which is followed by another paragraph annotated as "D". Will the government clarify Attachment 4 PPIS and that requested/provided information is correct? | the paragraph numbering (A, B, etc) is off, which shouldn't be an issue as the requested information is correct. |
| 78 | Attachment #4 Past Performance Information Sheet | The referenced template states in the title that it is Part III, PPIS. If this is a reference to the Past Performance Part II volume, will the government allow us to change the title of the form or will the government issue a new form? | another typo; offeror may change the title; no updated form will be issued |
| 79 | Attachment 4 Past Performance Information Sheet, para C., 8. | Item #8 refers to items #5 and #6 in the same paragraph and asks about value amounts in dollars. Item #5 is not a dollar value, but #6 and #7 have dollar values. Will the government clarify Attachment 4, Paragraph C. bullet points and provide clarification on the information requested? | again, apologies for the mistakes; para C.8. should have referenced 6 & 7 and would hope the submitter would realize the mistake |
| 80 | PWS and CBA, PWS Paragraph 4.5.2 | Federal Holiday, PWS 4.5.2 does not currently include Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday. CBA Article 15 Section 1 states, "The company agrees to provide government-mandated holidays as declared by Congress, the President of the United States..." Should bidders assume Juneteenth will be observed as a Federal Holiday at Holloman site? | See PWS 4.5.2, Juneteenth is listed as a Federal holiday. |
Note: For SCA compliance purposes, the Juneteenth holiday must be accounted for and part of the CBA in order for it to be deemed as paid holiday. As a result, this would be a contracting matter since it’s listed per the PWS/SOW as to whether to grant the KR the paid holiday, which would be predicated upon mission requirements and government oversight. Otherwise, this would be accounted for as 8 hours of productive time per a KR’s original proposal since it’s part of the CBA.
| 81 | PWS Paragraph 1.2.2.3 | DTT Events, Can the Government provide the average length of DTT events? | DTT events should be expected to be similar to ATD event lengths …2.5 hours |
| 82 | Addendum to 52.212-1 - Instructions to Offerors, (f) PART 1 (3) Subfactor 1 | Required documentation, As part of the Technical Volume submission, bidders are required to submit supporting documentation for Subfactor 1. If a bidder is providing supporting documentation (such as a detailed daily/weekly work schedule) is it possible to provide this supporting documentation as an Appendix and not included in the 15 page total for the Technical Proposal? | Bidders may provide supporting documentation as an Appendix to the Technical Part for Subfactor 1, not to exceed 5 pages. |
A follow on question was asked concerning the 15 page limit for Technical - this answer above should suffice.
| 83 | Solicitation - Amendment 1 & | |||
| Atch 4 PP Information Sheet, 70 / Atch 4 | List of Attachments, In the List of Attachments "Atch 4" is referred to as the "Past Performance Questionnaire"; however, the filename and title of Attachment 4 is "Past Performance Information Sheet". Will the Government please update the title of Attachement 4 in the List of Attachemnts? | This update was missed when accomplishing Amendment 0002. Attachment 4 will be removed from the List of Attachment post award. | ||
| 84 | Atch 4 PP Information Sheet, Atch 4 / Section D | The instructions in Atch 4 state "Return this no-more than 3-page Attachment per contract with proposal." Are Offerors to submit separate files for PPIS or combine them into a single document with a Cover Page and Table of Contents as Volume II? | Offerors should combine all PPIS files into a single document with a Cover page and Table of Contents | |
| 85 | Addendum to 52.212-1 - Instructions to Offerors, 2 / Section 12(i) | The font on page one of Attachment 4 PP Information Sheet is in Times New Roman, font pitch size 10. The Instructions to Offerors states that "Font/Formatting. Pages will be typed with a minimum of font pitch size 11, Times New Roman". Are Offerors permitted to submit Attachment 4 PP Information Sheets using font pitch size 10? | No, please submit the two additional pages in font pitch size 11. | |
| 86 | Addendum to 52.212-1 - Instructions to Offerors, 2 / Section 12(i) | The Instructions to Offerors states that "Font/Formatting. Pages will be typed with a minimum of font pitch size 11, Times New Roman". Are Offerors permitted to use font pitch size 9 in tables and a font size that is easily legible in graphics? | See Answers to #34 & #35 where font size less than 11 is permitted. | |
| 87 | Atch 4 PP Information Sheet, Atch 4 / Section A | DUNS Numbers have been replaced with Unique Entity ID (UEI) Numbers. Will the Govenrment update Attachment 4 PP to request the UEI Number instead of the DUNS Number? | Attachment 4 will not be updated; industry should know UEI replaced DUNS (again sorry for the mistake). | |
| 88 | PWS 4.1.3 | Please verify the projected transition period is for 60 days (1 May 2023 - 30 June 2023)? | PWS 4.13 is the 2-week Transition plan; PWS 4.1.3. is Notification for contractor to notify 49WG/IP 30 days before performance on contract. |
The Government anticipates awarding the contract by 1 June, with a start date of 1 July, which should give the awardee time to submit information IAW 4.1.3 to WG/IP.
| 89 | Atch 1.1_RPATS_Bid_Sheet, Option CLINs | Transition time period, Please verify the costs for transition (as required) should be included in FY23 CLINs? Would the USG consider adding an additional SubCLIN in FY23 for transition costs? | No separately priced CLIN will be added for the 2-week Transition period. |
| 90 | Addendum to 52.212-1 - Instructions to Offerors | There is no mention of a cover letter in the RFP. Will the Government allow Offerors to submit a cover letter that is outside of page count? | Review Addendum 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors RE cover sheet. |
| 91 | Atch 1.1_RPATS_Bid_Sheet, CLIN 0010, Simulated Air Traffic Control Center position | Atch 1.1 (RPATS Bid Sheet) contains CLINs for each FY for the Simulated Air Traffic Controller (SATCC). |
13a. Will USG clarify if the SATCC is new work scope not currently supported under the existing contract (FA480118C0002)?
13b. Are these SATCC positions covered in the current CBA, another CBA, or WD?
| 13c. Will USG clarify whether SATCC support will be required for all ATD and DTT events (out of the typical 50-60 ATD events daily)? | SATCC is a new requirement and is not in the current CBA. SATCC will support all scheduled events for a day on a NTE 5 to 1 ratio…up to 80 events per day | ||
| 92 | FA4801222R001, Additional Information/Notes | New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax and Future Service Contract Act (SCA) Adjustments, Each CLIN is required to include the cost of New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax (NMGRT) - including the Option Years. Since the existing Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) expires December 31, 2023 - a new CBA will be in effect for the last 6 months of the Base Year (Jul 2023 - December 2023) and for every option year afterwards. |
14a. How does the USG want bidders to account for increased costs associated with CBA changes and New Mexico Gross Receipt Taxes?
14b. The annual SCA adjustment only accounts for wage/benefit deltas and does not allow NMGRT reimbursement. Will the USG consider a separate CLIN after contract award to cover NMGRT for costs associated with CBA wage increases?
14c. If an additional CLIN is not possible, will the USG provide guidance on how to address these unknown estimated taxes? Under a FFP contract per FAR 52.222-43, the NMGRT is not an allowable cost for reimbursement and all offers should bid accordingly and account for all such cost accordingly in their original proposal. Refer back to answer to #26. Otherwise the CBA will not be updated during the base year of the contract until OY1 is exercised and the wages per the incumbent’s CBA will remain in effect for the entirety of the base year POP.
No CLIN will be added for NMGRT Offerors should be familiar with both section 4(c) of the SCA and FAR 22.1007 which drives wage determination, to include CBA, revisions.
| 93 | Attachment 2, Atch+2+WD+CBA-2017-10828+Rev+2+dtd+12-17-2019, Collective Bargaining Agreement, Article 24 | Savings Plan, The CBA states, "The company will provide a 401K plan for employees, to which plan eligible employees may defer compensation within the limits provided by the plan document”. Please provide a copy of the plan document that describes employee contribution limits and employer match (if any). If the USG does not have access to this document, will the USG clarify if there is an employer match or employer contribution defined in the plan? | The government does not possess this information. |
| 94 | Contract Clauses, Service Contract Act | Base Year Service Contract Act Adjustment, Bidders are directed to flat-line wages for CBA employees at the FY23 rate. The current CBA expires on 31 December 2023. Will the USG confirm if the contractor will be allowed to submit an SCA adjustment out-of-cycle from the base year period of performance? This is necessary because new CBA will be effective on January 1 2024, and the contract base year is from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024. So this would mean a SCA adjustment submittal to cover increased wages/benefits for the period from 1 January 2024 to 30 June 2024. | Offerors are advised to be familiar with SCA section 4(c) and the ability of a predecessor CBA's wages and benefits to "succeed" into the following contract period, as well as for a CBA to succeed itself. Offerors are reminded that CBAs, or indeed any type of wage determination, only becomes effective when the contracting officer, IAW intervals specified in FAR 22.1007, revises the wage determination(s) in the contract. |
There will be no out of cycle adjustment just because the CBA dates to not coincide with the contract’s PoP dates.
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