FA4890-17-R-0013_Q&A_v5_(Master)_24_May_17.pdf

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

FA4890-17-R-0013

RQ-4 & U-2/T-38 Contract Aircrew Training and Courseware Development

Q1. Reference: RFP Draft, Page 8, ITEM NO 0103. Quantity should reflect “4” versus “12” per period of performance. Recommend update.

A. Quantity corrected from “12” to “4”.

Q2. Reference: RFP Draft, Page 8, ITEM NO 0104. Quantity should reflect “4” versus “12” per period of performance. Recommend update.

A. Quantity corrected from “12” to “4”.

Q3. Reference: RFP Draft, Page 54, “(iv) 52.222-17, Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers (MAY 2014) (E.O.

13495). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (l) of FAR clause 52.222-17.” Are there any current incumbents supporting RQ-4 CAT/CWD requirements that are protected by this clause?

A. Yes

Q4. Reference: RFP Draft, Page 54, “(iv) 52.222-17, Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers (MAY 2014) (E.O.

13495). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (l) of FAR clause 52.222-17.” Are there any current incumbents supporting U-2 T-38 Companion Trainer Program (CTP) CAT/CWD requirements that are protected by this clause?

A. Yes

Q5. Reference: RFP Draft, Page 83, “B. Proposal demonstrates clear lines of authority and lines of communication between key USAF and contactor personnel.” Please identify the key USAF Personnel that must be addressed in response to this requirement. Identify each by organization/office/duty title.

A: Key USAF Personnel are the AMIC Contract Officer, Contract Manager (ACC AMIC/PKB) and TRSS Program Manager/COR (ACC TRSS/ACQ).

Q6. Reference: PWS, Page 13, Para 1.7.10. Recommend the Government provide a thorough explanation of the current state, composition (hardware/software/reporting tools) of the current U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 database(s) to provide bidders better clarity of the requirements.

A: Databases include local master storage (plus external backup storage) of lesson materials (Lesson Strategy Report (LSR)/Instructor Guide-Lesson Plan (IGLP)/Lesson Study Guide (LSG)) and associated supporting materials (local guidance, grade sheets, technical papers, etc.) in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or Excel format.

Q7. Reference: PWS, Page 13, Para 1.7.10.1. “The contractor shall utilize and maintain the current U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 student academic training and courseware development tracking database provided at the U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 FTU.” Please provide a description of the hardware, operating systems, and application software used for the current database. This information is needed to understand the scope of the Government’s requirement.

A: Databases include lesson materials (LSR/IGLP/LSG) and associated supporting materials in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or Excel format. Operating system is Microsoft Windows or current AF-approved substitute.

Q8. Reference: PWS, Page 13, Para 1.7.10.1. “The contractor shall utilize and maintain the current U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 student academic training and courseware development tracking database provided at the U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 FTU.” How many “student academic training and courseware development tracking database(s)” are there? The requirement is worded as one database that supports all three platform CAT/CWD requirements. Are there separate databases and servers support each the U-2/T-38 and RQ-4 CAT/CWD programs?

A: Presently, the U-2 and RQ-4 databases have been maintained separately, due to the programs being entirely independent of each other, and contractors performing CAT/CWD being from separate companies. The development or combination of the databases for ease of use, could be permitted, but is not required, based on the new aspect of a single HAISR Contract covering both weapons systems.

Q9. Reference: PWS, Page 13, Para 1.7.10.1. “The contractor shall update and maintain the Excel database system…” Is the database entirely based on Excel? Recommend the Government provide a complete explanation, systems and technical architecture of the database(s) that must be maintained under the contract. If available, please provide user manuals, specification documents, and database scheme in a bidder’s library.

A: Databases are maintained in Excel format or Access.

Q10. Reference: PWS, Page 13, Para 1.7.10.2. “The database shall contain redundant master file system(s) and equipment to prevent any loss of data in case of catastrophic events…” Please verify whether or not the current database possesses redundant master file system. PWS para 1.7.10.1 states contractors shall utilize and maintain the current database.

A: Databases need to be backed up as required to prevent loss from local equipment failure or network outage.

Q11. Reference: PWS, Page 13, Para 1.7.10.3. “Classified material will be located on a classified server that can be accessed via a SIPRNET web page, with password controls (if SIPRNET is not available, then electronic media will be made available to the instructors). Is there a requirement for the contractor to provide and maintain classified services and a SIPRNET web page presence? Recommend the reference be reworded to clarify the role of the contractor in support and/or maintaining classified systems and information.

A: Government maintains a SIPRNET SharePoint page, from which classified courseware is available for instruction or development purposes. Contractor is not required to provide or maintain an independent SIPRNET web page, only to be able to post applicable documents to the government SharePoint.

Q12. Reference: PWS, Page 14, Para 1.8.1.1. Paragraph does not provide requirements for RQ-4 Contractor employee training. Paragraph describes CAT task requirements. Recommend moving under Paragraph 1.4 CAT.

A. There is no training requirements for the RQ-4 Instructor Pilots. RQ-4 Sensor Operators maintain currency IAW

AFI 11-2-RQ-4V1.

Q13. Reference: PWS, Page 14, Para 1.8.1.1. The Government does not provide continuation training requirements for RQ-4 contractor personnel in this section as they did for the U-2 instructors. Please clarify if there are any continuation training requirements that must be met for RQ-4 instructors.

A: There is no CT requirements for the RQ-4 Instructor Pilots. RQ-4 Sensor Operators maintain currency IAW AFI

11-2-RQ-4V1.

Q14. Reference: PWS, Page 14, Para 1.8.1.4. “Contract instructors are also required to take the Instructor CRM training once.” Has the Government considered breaking up the current CRM CAT/CWD contract and including CRM training/instruction as part of current platform CAT/CWD contracts? Moving CRM training to platform CAT/CWD contracts would provide access to qualified and platform-current resources (instructors) to perform CRM training and would more than likely result in decreased overall cost of implementing CRM program requirements. Given the provision of most CAT/CWD contracts to incorporate new requirements during the performance period, the Government could gradually migrate CRM training requirements to existing CAT/CWD contracts.

A: Yes we have considered your request but prefer to keep CRM training standardized under one contract that supports pilots and aircrew from 5 MAJCOMs.

Q15. Reference: PWS, Page 15, Para 1.9. “…the Government shall evaluate the contractor's performance under this contract using the approved Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) at any…” Request the Government provide a copy of the current QASP for review and use when developing the proposal QCP.

A: A copy of the QASP will be posted on FedBizOps.

Q16. Reference: PWS, Page 23, Para 3.3.1. “The contractor shall provide the hardware and software equipment including server and switch computer equipment as required by the Base Communications Squadron (CS) to attach to the Base furnished router…” Please identify the specific equipment “required by the Base CS”. The reference states there is equipment required by the Base CS. This information should be provided to bidders to integrate into their Academic Database and office automation solutions.

A: Please see AFI 17-1301, Chapter 3, section 3.5 Information Technology Asset Procurement.

3.5. Information Technology Asset Procurement. Comply with evaluation and validation requirements in DoDI

8500.01 for all IT services, hardware, firmware, software components, or products incorporated into DoD ISs.

Specific details regarding equipment acceptability will be coordinated directly with 9 Communications Squadron personnel.

Q17. Reference: PWS, Page 25, Para 4.3.3 “The Training Manager or designated POC shall assist the FTU (Beale) and/or Training Detachment (Grand Forks) by providing…” The Government introduces the position of “Training Manager” under the SITE MANAGER paragraph. Should this be “Site Manager” instead of Training Manager? Please clarify.

A: The “Training Manager” will be reworded in the PWS to say Site Manager or Alternate Site Manager.

Q18. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.4 RQ-4 Repair Management/Training Device Sustainment Support.

The Government has written a very generic requirement to maintain and repair RQ-4 training devices. In order to properly respond to potential maintenance and repair tasks, bidders need to be supplied with specific maintenance records, systems architectures, technical architectures, and identification of any proprietary components that must be or is under contract to be maintained by an OEM contractor. Recommend this information be provided before or with the Final RFP as a bidders library. Another recommendation is to eliminate the maintenance/repair of training devices from the CAT/CWD contract.

A: Repair/maintenance of Pilot Stand Alone Trainer (PSATs) is not the requirement of this contract. If it is broken the requirement is to report it to the Government. Paragraph 4.10.4. was reworded to clarify the requirement.

Q19. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.4 RQ-4 Repair Management/Training Device Sustainment Support.

Request the government provide sufficient information concerning the PSAT architecture and maintenance requirements to permit bidders to adequately respond to the RFP. Para 4.7.52 PSAT does not define the PSAT, though it does define what capabilities is not within the PSAT. Please provide in a bidder’s library PSAT User Manuals, PSAT Specifications, PSAT Technical Orders, and PSAT maintenance records. Request the Government provide more specifics on what is to be maintained and/or repaired concerning PSAT hardware, software, and interface equipment, etc. Also, please identify all proprietary components that are supplied by an OEM and/or currently under another support contract that requires the Contractor to establish Associate Contractor Agreements (ACA) to satisfy maintenance requirements.

A: Repair/maintenance of PSATs is not a requirement of this contract. If it is broken the requirement is to report it to the Government. Paragraph 4.10.4. was reworded to clarify the requirement.

Q20. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.4 RQ-4 Repair Management/Training Device Sustainment Support.

Request the government provide sufficient information concerning the DPSAT architecture and maintenance requirements to permit bidders to adequately respond to the RFP. Para 4.7.52 DPSAT does not define the DPSAT, though it does define what capabilities is not within the DPSAT. Please provide in a bidder’s library DPSAT User Manuals, DPSAT Specifications, DPSAT Technical Orders, and DPSAT maintenance records. Request the Government provide more specifics on what is to be maintained and/or repaired concerning DPSAT hardware, software, and interface equipment, etc. Also, please identify all proprietary components that are supplied by an OEM and/or currently under another support contract that requires the Contractor to establish Associate Contractor Agreements (ACA) to satisfy maintenance requirements.

A: Repair/maintenance of PSATs is not a requirement of this contract. If it is broken the requirement is to report it to the Government. Paragraph 4.10.4. was reworded to clarify the requirement.

Q21. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.4 RQ-4 Repair Management/Training Device Sustainment Support.

Request the government provide sufficient information concerning the DAWS architecture and maintenance requirements to permit bidders to adequately respond to the RFP. Please provide in a bidder’s library DAWS User Manuals, DAWS Specifications, DAWS Technical Orders, and DAWS maintenance records. Request the

Government provide more specifics on what is to be maintained and/or repaired concerning DAWS hardware, software, and interface equipment, etc. Also, please identify all proprietary components that are supplied by an OEM and/or currently under another support contract that requires the Contractor to establish Associate Contractor Agreements (ACA) to satisfy maintenance requirements.

A: Repair/maintenance of PSATs is not a requirement of this contract. If it is broken the requirement is to report it to the Government. Paragraph 4.10.4. was reworded to clarify the requirement.

Q22. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.4.2. Please provide the number of each type training device at each location.

A: The U-2 has two Mission Procedures Trainers and the RQ-4 has 4 PSATs and 8 Desktop PSATs (DPSATs) at Beale and 5 DPSATs at Grand Forks, There are also 5 DAWS (Data Analysis Work Station) trainers at Beale.

During the pre-proposal conference a tour of the Beale facilities will be given so everybody has a better understanding of the requirements.

Q23. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.4.4 “…as needed for courseware development and Rancho Bernardo for Tech Order development.” Is the Contractor responsible for Tech Order development for each training device?

Please provide explanation of Tech Order development requirements, coordination, publication and distribution.

A: No. The contractor is not responsible Tech Order development but is responsible to follow the Tech Order procedures.

Q24. Reference: PWS, Page 36, Para 4.10.5.1 “The contractor shall provide hardware and software maintenance for all training devices on all configurations...” Is the contractor responsible for application software development/modification on training devices? Please specifically state the Contractors role in application software development and maintenance for each training device.

A: No. The contractor is not responsible for software development/modifications but is responsible to understand how to use the software.

Q25. Reference: RFP Draft, Page 6, Section 3. The draft PWS includes a requirement to “maintain and repair” RQ- 4 training devices. Will the Government be providing a CLIN structure for these services?

A. The T-38 IP course includes no device training. The T-38 IQT course includes a few lessons in the cockpit trainer, but they are not taught by contract instructors. The IQT cockpit lessons are included in Table A1.50 for courseware development (combined U-2/T-38).

Q26. Reference: PWS Page 37, Table A1.1. Table lists a T-38 Instructor Pilot course and a syllabus is listed in Appendix 2. Tables A1.11 Academics, A1.10 T-38 Training Device and A1.31 Device Training do not list instruction that appears directly related to the T-38 IP course that is the responsibility of contracted CAT/CWD.

Please clarify the requirement to support the T-38 IP course.

A: The T-38 IP course includes no device training. The T-38 IQT course includes a few lessons in the cockpit trainer, but they are not taught by contract instructors. The IQT cockpit lessons are included in Table A1.50 for courseware development (combined U-2/T-38).

Q27. Reference: PWS Page 49, Para A1.3.2. The Reference lists the U-2 CPT as a training device. How many U- 2 CPT training devices are available at Beale AFB, CA?

A: There are two CPTs.

Q28. Reference PWS Page 54, Para A1.4 CWD Workload Estimates. Please provide the levels of security classifications that is required to support U-2/T-38 CWD. For example, Secret, Top Secret, SCI, SAP/SAR.

A: The security classification is up to secret.

Q29. Reference PWS Page 54, Para A1.4 CWD Workload Estimates. Please provide the percentage of U-2/T-38 CWD development attributed to each classification level. For example, 30% Unclassified, 50% Secret, 10% Top Secret, 5% SCI, and 5% SAP/SAR.

A: U-2 - 80% Unclassified, 20% Secret

Q30. Reference PWS Page 54, Para A1.4 CWD Workload Estimates. Please provide the levels of security classifications that is required to support RQ-4 CWD. For example, Secret, Top Secret, SCI, SAP/SAR.

A: The security classification is up to secret.

Q31. Reference PWS Page 54, Para A1.4 CWD Workload Estimates. Please provide the percentage of RQ-4 CWD development attributed to each classification level. For example, 30% Unclassified, 50% Secret, 10% Top Secret, 5% SCI, and 5% SAP/SAR.

A: RQ-4 - 85% Unclassified, 15% Secret

Q32. Reference: PWS Page 55, Table A1.44. Total for column “Prep for Device Training” is incorrect. Numbers in column total 2031. Please verify.

A: Evidently a change was not thoroughly completed. Please note that the Total Instructor Hours do reflect the correct sum was used (7453 + 2031 = 9484).

Q33. Reference: PWS Page 55, Table A1.44. Note corresponding to “*” states that “…Device training for B40 IPUG taught by AF instructors at 348RS FTU.” Please verify that all numbers in referenced table include ONLY contractor device training workload estimates.

A: Correct, table includes contractor workload hours only.

Q34. Reference: Atch 3 U2 CBA. Is there a current CBA associated with the RQ-4 CAT/CWD work?

A. There are no CBAs associated with the RQ4 CAT/CWD work. However, Atch 4 – DOL Wage Determinations were provided for reference. The contractor will determine the applicability of the rates in their proposal.

Q 35. The RFP and PWS both list a base year PoP for U-2/T-38 CAT/CWD of four months, but CLINs 0103 and 0104 in the RFP reflect a 12 month Qty vs 4 month. We believe the RFP “quantity” on CLIN 0103 and 0104 are in error, request verification.

A. Quantity corrected from “12” to “4”. Same question as Q1.

Q36. PWS para 1.5.5.1.4.3. states “Contractor-developed CBT will be a minimum of level 2 interactivity as defined in ACCI 36-2250.” What is the minimum level of interactivity required for instructor-led lecture/seminar lessons?

A: None. These are academic courses taught by an instructor. Instructor led lessons specify no required level of interaction with students.

Q37. PWS Para 1.5.5.2.3 Urgent Action Directive states “New or revised courseware will be completed within 48 hours after notification by Government T/SME, or completed and approved by the Government CW/SME or the Government T/SME prior to instruction (whichever is later).” Development of a new level 2 interactivity CBT in a 48-hour period is unrealistic. Request USG consider 10 working days vice 48 hours for completion of ‘new’ level 2 CBT, and 48 hours for ‘revised’ level 2 CBT?

A: These are rare occurrences that normally arise from safety of flight issues and usually require minor changes in instructor-led or a CBT lessons. If it is determined that 48 hours is unreasonable the Government will allow a change to the CDS

Q38. PWS para 1.7.3 Training System Media Chart, Working Document column - CAI/CBT: Lesson Plans are not listed as a media type for CAI/CBT. However, per the AFH 36-2235 Lessons Plans are part of both interactive courseware packages and instructor led lesson packages. Additionally, per Attachment 6 para. A6. LESSON PLAN “The contractor shall prepare and deliver a Lesson Plan for each academic lesson’, and Attachment 10 para. 10.6.

INITIAL DISTRIBUTION AND DEADLINE. “The presentation will be submitted as a draft digital file with the hard copy Lesson Plan and will be submitted to CW/SME.” Please clarify, are Lessons Plans required for the

CAI/CBT?

A: In the case of CAI/CBT, the Lesson Strategy Report fills the requirement for a lesson plan.

Q39. PWS para 1.7.3 Training System Media Chart, Working Document column - CAI/CBT: Lesson Strategy Reports are not listed as a deliverable for CAI/CBT in the media chart. However, per Attachment 1 LSRs are necessary for the design and development of ICW modules/lessons. Are LSRs required for the CAI/CBT?

A: Lesson Strategy Report is required for CAI/CBT lessons as part of the files submitted to the Air Force for review.

The Training System Media Chart should reflect that in the working files and master files columns.

Q40. Do Lesson Plans and Lesson Strategy Reports currently exist for all associated academic lessons? If not, is the contractor required to develop these items as part of the training material revision and maintenance effort (when the effort is not new development)?

A: Yes Lesson Plans and Lesson Strategy Reports currently exist for all associated academic lessons.

Q41. PWS para 1.7.3 Training System Media Chart, Working Document column - CAI/CBT Study Guides: Are the CAI/CBT Study Guides to be delivered per Attachment 8 Lesson Study Guide? If not, please provide the appropriate Attachment.

A: Yes in accordance with Attachment 8 Lesson Study Guide.

Q42. PWS para 1.7.3 Training System Media Chart, Working Document column – Training Devices Briefing Guides: How do the Briefing Guides differ from the Instructor Guides? Please identify the associated Attachment for the Briefing Guides deliverable?

A: A few of the device lessons include an in-depth briefing on a particular subject. In these cases the briefing guide is submitted along with the device package (e.g. an accompanying PowerPoint presentation for the instructor to use for discussion/illustration purposes).

Q43. PWS para 1.7.3 Training System Media Chart, Working Document column – Training Devices Grade Sheets:

Are Grade Sheets delivered as part of the Instructor Guide or as a separate deliverable? If separate, please provide the associated Attachment?

A: Gradesheets are included in lesson packages when used as subjects for discussion of subject matter (e.g. Instructor Fundamentals lesson shows examples of properly/improperly completed grade sheets). ACCI 11-464 directs use of a standard ACC Form 206 gradesheet.

Q44. Per PWS 1.7.8. Transition Plan "The plan shall also address how the incumbent contractor shall train and certify new instructors if the incumbents are not retained." As the incumbent contractor, we will not know the incoming contractors proposed staffing levels/number of instructors requiring training and certification, nor the requirements of their instructor training and certification plan until the Transition Phase. Additionally, if the USG changes the CAT level of effort requiring support for the 2023 base year PoP, as occurred between the existing 2012 contract and this proposal with the addition of RQ-4 support, this could greatly impact the number of incoming instructors requiring training, increasing the incumbent’s training workload and responsibilities. Will the USG accept the training and certification of incoming new instructors using the incumbent contractors approved training and certification plan? Additionally, will the USG accept a workload assumption limiting the training and certification of new instructors to the transition phase workload/staffing levels in the offerors 2017 proposal?

A: You will be responsible for training only the initial cadre of instructors which will be minimal.

Q45. Per PWS para 1.10.6. General Information."...The highest level of security clearance required for contract performance is SECRET." However, per the DD Form 254 and para 4.2.4. Personnel Security Clearances "Personnel assigned to this project shall require access to information up to and including Top Secret." Please clarify.

A: Aircrew instructors will require TS/SCI access. Presently, only contract Sensor Operator instructors routinely “exercise” their TS/SCI access, when they instruct flight events, but Pilot instructors have maintained TS/SCI access to provide capability to instruct flight events if requested by the Air Force.

Q46. Per PWS para 4.7.1. Ancillary Time. "Time contractors spend on tasks which support the ability to perform contract effort but does not involve direct contact with students or tasks is considered as Indirect Time." Per the RFP

4.1.1. Subfactor A: Manning Requirements and Analysis section B. "Workload analysis sufficiently demonstrates how proposed CAT and CWD manning levels for primary CLINs were determined including all direct (PWS Appendix 1), indirect and ancillary workload" For evaluation purposes, please verify for this effort that ancillary and indirect workload hours are the same thing.

A: Ancillary and indirect workload are not the same but both times do not interact with a student. See PWS paragraph 4.7.1. for Ancillary Time and 4.7.28. for Indirect Time.

Q47. PWS 4.7.8 Briefing Room Interactive and Table A1.50. Per the note on Table A1.50, BRI product support is included in CBT revision numbers. Please provide the % of CBT that is BRI to assist in determining BRI specific workload hours.

A: A planning factor of 5% of CBT revision time would be reasonable to use to determine hours for BRI-specific changes.

Q48. Per PWS para 4.8.1. Courseware Development Requirement. “The contractor shall develop Computer Based Training (CBT) to run properly on the AFNIC SDC workstations. Warning there may be previous versions of this configuration currently in use within ACC.” Please verify if all current courseware is running as desired on all current AFNIC SDC workstations, i.e. this statement only applies to new development? or is the incoming contractor required to revise existing courseware to meet previous AFNIC SDC configurations?

A: All current courseware is running on current AFNIC SDC workstations. This applies to new development.

Q49. Per PWS para 4.10.4.1. Repairs and Support. "The contractor shall provide sustainment support and repair of Global Hawk training systems hardware and software. This includes: 4.10.4.2. All configurations of training devices (7 PSAT/ 18 DPSAT/ 4 DAWS) located at Grand Forks AFB, Beale AFB, FOLs, and Rancho Bernardo" Please provide training system hardware and software inventory data and specifications for all Global Hawk training systems hardware and software to be supported, as well as any historical information regarding support requirements, e.g. frequency and cost of repairs by platform at each location.

A: The contractor is not required to provide maintenance for training systems hardware and software, but will be required to notify the government of any issues requiring correction in a timely manner.

Q50. Per PWS 4.10.5.1. Software and Hardware Maintenance. “The contractor shall provide hardware and software maintenance for all training devices on all configurations to ensure operability and concurrency with fielded modifications and software upgrades, and transform training device events into software format for entry into the training device.” Per PWS 3.1.1. Equipment. “The Government shall provide the use of the following equipment at the place of performance to allow the contractor to meet the requirements of this contract. The Government shall retain custody and will be responsible for the maintenance of this equipment. The contractor shall be responsible for the proper use of this equipment while in use by the contractor and shall report any problems to Government/SME.”

Per PWS 3.1.1.1. “Training devices required by the U-2 and the RQ-4 PTT course syllabi is supported by this contract.” Please clarify the specific training device hardware and software to be maintained by the contractor.

A: The contractor is not required to provide maintenance for training systems hardware and software, but will be required to notify the government of any issues requiring correction in a timely manner.

Q51. Per PWS para A1.3.1.1. U-2 Academic Classroom Instruction 1 Oct 2018 through 31 Jan 2023 "The contractor should plan for 3.0 hours of instructor time for each sortie (for a Total Contract Time = 732 hours)." Will BQ-8, 10, 12, 14, RQ-8, MQ-2, 3, 4, 6, 7, and MQ-8 sorties be taught at Grand Forks, Beale, or another location?

A: All will be taught at Beale.

Q52. Please verify the 732 hours listed in PWS para A1.3.1.1. includes Support Contractor (SC) instructor prep time.

A: Prep time is included in the 732 hours.

Q53. Per para A1.3.1. Projected Classroom Instruction Requirements for 1 Oct 2018 through 31 Jan 2023. “This paragraph is separated into U-2/T-38 and RQ-4 instructional events. Includes 11 sessions each for U-2 pilots and RQ-4 (RPA-specific) pilots of the Instrument Refresher Course.” Appendix 1 Table A1.11 includes SC instructor workload data for the U-2 Pilot IRC events, but workload data is not provided in A1.24 for RQ-4 IRC events. Please provide.

A: Per Table A1.12. RQ-4 IRC instruction is not provided by SC instructors.

Q54. Per A1.3.1.2. RQ-4 Academic Instruction "Beale SC instructor SOs shall teach 75% of academics (excluding lessons depicted as not taught by SC)." Both Table A1.2 and Table A1.24 provide data for a total of 6 RQ-4 Pilot IPUG B30 classes per year at Beale, is the SC Instructor SO only responsible for 75% of these hours?

A: Instructor Sensor Operators do not teach the IPUG academics - the 75% refers to Sensor Operator academics at Beale AFB only.

Q55. Appendix 1 Table A1.1 shows 8 U-2 Pilot BQT and 4 U-2 Pilot Requal classes per year, however Table A1.11 shows a combined total of 11 U-2 Pilot BQT + RQT classes per year. Please clarify which is the correct number of U-2 Pilot BQT + RQT classes per year?

A: The Requal students often attend BQT lessons, but occasionally will be taught separately. The 11 classes per year number was a way to depict a reasonable combination of the two methods.

Q56. Appendix 1 Table A1.1 shows 8 U-2 MQT classes per year, A1.11 shows 11 U-2 MQT classes per year. Please clarify, which is correct?

A: The Requal students often attend BQT lessons, but occasionally will be taught separately from BQT. It is unlikely that all 4 Requal classes would be taught entirely separately from BQT, but more likely that many of the BQT lessons would also include some requal students. For this reason, an estimate of 11 “BQT + RQT” classes is a reasonable way to estimate a combination of the two methods.

Q57. Appendix 1 Table A1.1 does not provide Total Students and Class data for the U-2 MSN PLNR Lab listed in Table A1.11, please verify student and class data is the same as Table A1.1 U-2 Mission Planner data?

A: Table A1.1 has 8 students per year and 4 classes per year (2 students per class). Table A1.11 has the 4 classes and the total workload of 193.2 hours per year.

Q58. Appendix 1 Table A1.1 does not provide Total Student and Class data for the U-2 Pilot IRC classes listed in Table A1.11. Please provide.

A: The number of students in a class is N/A. Table A1.1 has 11 IRC classes being taught in a year totaling 75.1.

Q59. Appendix 1 Table A1.1 lists 8 classes for T-38 Initial Qual, Table A1.11 lists 8 classes for T-38 BQT and RQT training requirements. Please verify RQT students are taught as part of the 8 T-38 Initial Qual classes listed in A1.1, and no additional classes/SC instructor hours are required to cover individual T-38 RQT training requirements?

A: No additional classes/hours are required from the SC instructors for T-38 RQT.

Q60. Appendix 1 Table A1.1 provides separate line items with individual student and class data for T-38 Initial Qual and T-38 Instructor Pilot classes. Additionally, Table A2.1 U-2/T-38 and RQ-4 AIRCREW TRAINING SYLLABUS INVENTORY CHART indicates these are supported with two different ACC Syllabi, T-38 Pilot Qualification Training and T-38 Instructor Pilot Upgrade Training. Table A1.9 provides two charts with T-38 academic inventory that would appear to reflect the two syllabi, and per the second chart under Table A1.9. T-38 Academic Inventory 1 Oct 18 – 31 Jan 23, "IRC class instruction hours are counted separately in A1.11." However, Table A1.11 only contains a T-38 Pilot BQT and RQT line item which reflects 14 Direct Instructor Hrs/Class, matching the total contractor instructor hours listed between the two Table A1.9 charts (12+2). Table A1.11 does not include any workload data for T-38 IRC / Instructor Pilots. Please clarify the following: Is the contractor providing a total of 14 hours of instruction per class to T-38 Pilot BQT and RQT students, as reflected between the two charts?

Is Table A1.11 missing T-38 Instructor Pilot instructor workload data?

ANS: No additional classes/hours are required from the SC instructors for T-38 IRC.

Q61. Per Appendix 1 Table A1.2 there are 6 IPUG 30 classes at Beale and 6 IPUG 40 classes at Grand Forks. Per para A1.3.1.2. RQ-4 Academic Instruction. "...For IPUG, SC instructors shall teach all Phase I academic events."

However, Table A1.24 only reflects 6 total IPUG classes per year. Is Table A1.24 missing the Grand Forks AFB IPUG workload data?

A: Yes, see corrected data in 19 April PWS Update.

Q62. Appendix 1 Table A1.2 indicates 12 BQT classes with 6 students per class and 8 RQT classes with 1 student per class. Per Table A1.12. RQ-4 PBQT and RQT Academic Inventory these classes have 47.5 and 21 SC instructor hours respectively. Please verify the PBQT and RQT classes can be combined as reflected in Table A1.24 for a total of up to 7 students per class, with no additional SC instructor hours?

A: RQ-4 RQT students will attend PBQT academic classes, sometimes they will bring the total to 7 students, and no additional instructor hours are included.

Q63. The Appendix 1 Table A1.31 U-2 RQT Hours in Device Training doesn't appear to match the calculations used for the other course hours. Per Table A1.27 there are 4 contractor events, 2 hours each, but 16*2 = 32 hours, not

128. Should this be 64 total U-2 RQT device events or 32 total hours in device training?

A: Should be 32 Hours in Device Training. Prep/Briefings times are correct. Total Instructor Hours should be 64 (+ 5% = 3.2 Reteach) = 67.2 Total Instructor + 5%.

Q64. Manually adding the hours per contractor event listed in Appendix 1 Table A1.32. RQ-4 PBQT and RQT Device Training Inventory results in a total of 20 events requiring 83.5 BQT contract hours, vs. the 79.5 BQT hours listed. Additionally, Per Table A1.44, the contractor is responsible for 1368 total PBQT device events, which doesn't factor equally with the 20 events per course listed in Table A1.32. Please clarify the contractor provided lessons and total PBQT hours provided in Table A1.32 and the Total Device Events, Hours in Device Training, and Prep for Device Training data provided in Table A1.44?

A: SIM-20R from Table A1.32 is a little different - it is only for Instructor Pilot Requal students. This is not included in the BQT (79.5) or RQT (35.5) totals. 1368 events equals 19 events * 72 students per year.

Q65. Manually adding the hours per contractor event listed in Appendix 1 Table A1.32. RQ-4 PBQT and RQT Device Training Inventory results in a total of 9 events requiring 39.5 RQT contract hours, vs. the 35.5 RQT hours listed in the table summary, which matches the calculations/data provided in Table A1.44. Please clarify the contractor provided lessons and total RQT hours provided in Table A1.32.

A: SIM-20R from Table A1.32 is a little different - it is only for Instructor Pilot Requal students.

Q66. Is there brief/debrief time associated with the PSAT Operations lesson identified in Appendix 1 Table A1.33.

RQ-4 IPUG Phase I Device Training Inventory?

A: No, this single device lesson is about using the PSAT, so prebrief and debrief aren’t applicable.

Q67. Per Appendix 1 A1.5.3 Backups of Courseware "Quarterly, the contractor shall provide backups of all current courseware to the Government." Per Para 1.7.3 and Section 2, the backups are required monthly. Please clarify which is correct?

A: Paragraph A1.5.3. should also say monthly. PWS was updated to reflect monthly.

Q68. Per Appendix 1 A1.7 COURSEWARE REVIEW AND REVISION RATES. "...A nominal rate of 70% of existing courseware shall be revised/reviewed each year..." Table A1.51 states "RQ-4 CWD Based on 70% Touch/60% Revision/40% Review rates for courseware maintenance", Table A1.50 does not include a similar statement. Please verify if the Table A1.50 numbers are also based on the 70% Touch/60% Revision/40% Review rates for courseware maintenance?

A: The 70%-60%-40% is a nominal target for planning how many Revisions and Reviews will be done during a contract year. Since we require all lessons to be updated at least every two years, not all lessons will be updated every year. We plan how many will be updated (not just 50% one year and 50% the next) so we plan to “touch” 70% of the inventory over the year, and make sure we don't leave any lessons out for two years in a row. Then we have to decide how many updates will be Revisions versus Reviews. For planning purposes, of the 70% of the entire inventory that will be updated that year, 60% (of the 70%) will be revisions (which take approximately 50% as long as creating a new lesson of that type) and 40% (of the 70%) will be reviews (which take 10% as long as a new lesson of that type).

Q69. For Appendix 1 Tables A1.50 and A1.51, please clarify if the Exam Package lines include lessons exam new equivalents for both Classroom Lessons and CBT, or just Classroom Lessons?

A: Exam Packages are separate from lesson review quizzes, and could be more accurately pictured as a Master Question File, from which end of course exams are generated.

Q70. Per Attachment 9 A9. STUDENT HANDBOOKS. "...SMEs generate the text for Student Handbooks. The support required is to provide project coordination, edit the text, unify the work of multiple SMEs, add appropriate graphics and typeset the result as a unified whole. ... The contractor shall provide SMEs for all of the lessons and handbooks the contractor is responsible for producing, updating, reviewing and revising." Please clarify if Contractor SMEs or USG SMEs will generate the initial text for the Student Handbooks?

A: The contractor SMEs will generate the initial text for the Student Handbooks. Creation of a new handbook is not a common project. The one per year new handbook estimate is expected to be conservative (likely will be fewer than that, but plan on one).

Q80. Attachment 9 STUDENT HANDBOOKS. Do Student Handbooks exist for all subject material currently covered by an instructional mode of lecture or seminar?

A: Yes, but the RQ-4 Student Handbook covers all the systems, and a few operations topics. There are fewer than a dozen handbooks altogether.

Q81. Attachment 9 A9.7. FINAL DISTRIBUTION AND DEADLINE. "...Contractor shall produce and distribute one copy of the Government approved handbook to each student as outlined in the following table:..." Is this requirement a digital or hard copy?

A: Digital copy is required.

Q90. Are RQ-4 “Global Hawk” CAT and CWD support services being provided under the current contract? If not, are they being provided under a different contract? If so provide the associated contract number.

A. No, the RQ-4 CAT/CWD is under a different contract (Task Order) currently managed at AFLCM, Wright Patterson AFB, OH. Contract # FA48620-13-G-0001-0011.

Q91. According to the RFP 4.1.2 Subfactor B Aspect 3A, the existing Academic Database is Microsoft SharePoint based while the PWS 1.7.10.1 states the Academic Database is Excel based. Question: Which statement is correct?

A. The sharepoint is a webpage at which files can be uploaded and accessed. The Excel file is uploaded to the sharepoint, then opened by the user.

Q92. RFP 4.1.2 Subfactor B Aspect 3A, states, “Academic/Training Database ensures all data, files, records, lessons, reports, etc.

from the current classified and unclassified Academic/Training Database (Microsoft SharePoint-based)” Question: Are CBTs loaded within also?

A: CBTs are accessed through a different server through the viewing program. The CBT LSRs are the only files that reside in the Academic Database.

Q93. PWS 1.7.10.1 States, “The contractor shall utilize and maintain the current U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 student academic training and courseware development tracking database provided at the U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 FTU.” Question: Does the Academic Database reside on a government or contractor owned computer system?

A. The tracking databases are not large files. A copy of the latest update is created by the contractor on their system and emailed monthly to the government representative.

Q94. PWS 1.7.10.1 States, “The contractor shall utilize and maintain the current U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 student academic training and courseware development tracking database provided at the U-2/T-38 & RQ-4 FTU.” Question: Does the Academic Database exist within the “.mil” LAN or contractor LAN?

A. The tracking databases are not large files. A copy of the latest update is created by the contractor on their system and emailed monthly to the government representative.

Q95. PWS 4.8.1 States, “contractor shall develop Computer Based Training (CBT)” Question: What authoring tool is currently used to build CBTs?

A. CBTs are currently authored in HTML. The requirement going forward is that CBTs be created using HTML5 or newer format, to allow for Responsive Design.

Q96. RFP 4.1.2 Subfactor B Aspect 3D Item #2, States, “a function to generate reports” Question: Do these reports currently exist and you choose which one to display or are you suggesting that the reports are created real time by selecting the criteria to include?

A: Reports are currently generated manually by selecting and entering required data.

Q97. RFP 4.1.2 Subfactor B Aspect 3C, PWS 1.7.10.2, States, “provide continuous access (available 24/7)” and “The database will be available to authorized users 24 hours per day, seven days a week. “ Question: Is 24/7 access to the Academic Database currently provided?

A. Yes

Q98. RFP 4.1.2 Subfactor B Aspect 3A, States, “ensures all data, files, records, lessons, reports, etc. from the current classified and unclassified Academic/Training Database (Microsoft SharePoint-based)” Question: Could you provide the data file types that currently exist within the Academic Database, for example are all the products Microsoft office based with “.xlsx”, “.docx”, or “.pptx” file extensions or are their other proprietary file formats such as “.fla” files which require Adobe Flash or Adobe Animate to open?

A: Academic Database files are Microsoft Office based. (.xlsx/.doc/.pptx) CBT lessons are authored in HTML and include some Flash animation files.

Q99. PWS Para 1.4.1.1.7, Para 1.4.1.1.7 states, “Provide Instrument Refresher Course (IRC) instruction as required in the U-2, T-38 and RQ-4 syllabi…” Specific courses listed in PWS only show military providing IRC instruction.

Question: In which course syllabi and when do contract instructors provide IRC?

A. Appendix 1 Table A1.11 has U-2 IRC taught by the contactor for a total of 11 classes at 75.1 hours per year. The RQ-4 IRC training is being done by a CBT.

Q100. PWS Para 3.2.6, first sentence, States, “The Government shall provide LAN services IAW Section 4, paragraph 4.8.5.” Question: Should the reference be changed to “paragraph 4.8.7”?

A. Yes it will be changed to reflect 4.8.7.

Q101. Reserved.

Q102. PWS Appendix 1, Para A1.8, second sentence, States, “Contractors should compute the estimated total development time.” Question: Could the Government please confirm that contractors should develop their own development estimates in the TWMP for deriving manpower to accomplish the CWD workload in Tables A1.50 and A1.51?

A. The hours listed in Tables A1.50 & A1.51 is what is currently being used to develop CWD. The contractors may develop their own time.

Q103. PWS Appendix 1, Table A1.50, Column labeled “Hours for New” Question: Do the hours in this column reflect any additional time for coordination, reviews, and production of materials?

A. The hours reflected include development, production and review hours required by the contractor. The government review of the product is not included in this time.

Q104. PWS Appendix 1, Table A1.50, Question: Does this table reflect the same 70% Touch/60% Revision/40% Review rates for courseware maintenance as shown in Table A1.51 and described in Para A1.7?

A. The 70%-60%-40% is a nominal target for planning how many Revisions and Reviews will be done during a contract year. Since we require all lessons to be updated at least every two years, not all lessons will be updated every year. We plan how many will be updated (not just 50% one year and 50% the next) so we plan to “touch” 70% of the inventory over the year, and make sure we don't leave any lessons out for two years in a row. Then we have to decide how many updates will be Revisions versus Reviews. For planning purposes, of the 70% of the entire inventory that will be updated that year, 60% (of the 70%) will be revisions (which take approximately 50% as long as creating a new lesson of that type) and 40% (of the 70%) will be reviews (which take 10% as long as a new lesson of that type).

Q105. PWS Para 4.9, last sentence and PWS Appendix 4, Paras 4.1.1 and 4.1.2, Instructions for the Strike Mitigation Plan in Para 4.9 state, “This plan is due within ten business days of contract award.” The references in Appendix 4 indicate Strike Mitigation Plan is delivered with proposal.

Question: Which is correct—deliver plan within ten business days of award or deliver with proposal?

A. That was in error. The strike mitigation plan is delivered within ten business of contract award. This will be changed.

Q106. PWS Page 54, Table A1.40, Event SOSIM40-01 is titled “CRM SIM with Pilot” and Note 2 under this table states, “…each SO student to perform/discuss one CRM contingency procedures profile with an instructor pilot while being observed by an FTU ISO.”

Question: Is the instructor pilot an active duty member or another CRM contractor? Does this contract provide instructor pilot?

A. The pilot involved is an active duty member, not provided by the contractor.

Q107. PWS Page 54, Table A1.39 Event SOSIM30-01 is titled “Pilot Workstation Familiarization and Basic Aircraft Performance.” Note 2 states, “SOSIM30-01 is designed for each SO student to perform one pilot workstation familiarization and basic aircraft performance procedures profile in a PSAT while being observed/assisted by an instructor pilot.”

Question: Is the instructor pilot an active duty member or does this contract provide instructor pilot?

Question: Is a contract ISO required to observe this training event?

A: Instructor pilot is a contractor, but the ISO is not required to observe the training event.

Q108. CBA, Title Page, Indicates current agreement only cover U-2 CAT/CWD.

Question: Is the RQ-4 CAT/CWD portion covered in this agreement or should we use DoL WD tables for California and North Dakota for pricing wages for this portion of the contract?

A. Reference Question #34.

Q109. CBA, Page 14, Section 14.1, Table #3 lists labor categories and wages.

Question: Is there a particular labor category and wage used for a Scheduler position?

A. Use the CBA labor rate for Word Processor I

Q110. PWS Page 37, Table A12, RQ-4 IPUG Block 40 line, Remarks section shows, “All taught at Grand Forks” Question: Is there any contractor instruction involved with this course (IPUG Block 40)?

A. Contract instructor teaches the academic lessons identified in Tables A1.13 and A1.14 (excludes CRM lesson).

Q111. PWS Page 12, Section 1.7.4 and PWS Page 59, Table A1.49. Question: Is contractor responsible for scheduling flying event training for the RQ-4 SO position as part of scheduler duties?

A. The contractor works with the RQ-4 Scheduler (active duty) to accomplish syllabus flying event training. The contractor does not schedule the events, just provides their availability to the RQ-4 Scheduler.

Q112. Draft RFP Attachment 3 is Collective Bargaining Agreement for “U-2 CAT/CWD”. Is RQ4 CAT/CWD and labor positions covered under current Attachment 3? If not, will there be a CBA included with RFP as an additional attachment for the RQ4 CAT/CWD positions?

A. Reference Question #34.

Q113. PWS A1.8 states “Contractors should compute the estimated total development time.” But in PWS tables A1.50 Estimated U-2/T-38 CWD (per year), and A1.51 Estimated RQ4 CWD (per year), USG has already computed the total development hours (ref. “Total Dev Hours” column). Is it USG intent instead, that offeror shall propose their own “Hours for New” Development vice using “USG Hours for New” Development, and calculate the resulting “Total Dev Hours” instead of using the USG “Total Dev Hours” currently shown in Tables A1.50 and A1.51?

A. Offeror is free to propose adjustments to depicted hours.

Q114. PWS A1.8 - Request USG verify that the “Hours for New” numbers listed in Tables A1.50 and A1.51, for each product listed (Classroom Lessons, Exam Package, etc.) are only placeholders (or estimates) and that offeror is expected to propose their own “Hours for New”?

A. Correct - depicted hours are estimates, and offeror is free to adjust.

Q115. Per PWS 1.7.4. Academic Scheduling. The contractor shall develop, produce and provide a definitive academic training schedule for Government- and contractor-taught platform academic sessions and training device events.

Question: Are Flight Training events also included in the Academic Schedule?

A. Flight training events are included in the schedule. If the RQ-4 Scheduler is not able to provide flight events to the contractor in time to produce the schedule, estimated date/time targets will suffice until solid schedule is available.

Q116. Per PWS 4.3. SITE MANAGER. The contractor shall provide a Site Manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work.

Question: Is the contractor to provide one Site Manager per location, or one for the project?

A. That decision will be left up to the contractor to decide if you need one at each location.

Q117. PWS ATTACHMENT 14 lists 11 Computer Workstations with storage, and 5 Computer Workstations without storage.

Question: Are the listed workstations student stations for use during classroom lectures or contractor work stations?

A. Contractor work stations.

Question: Is the contractor…