Afghan_CLS_Questions_Answers_8_Aug_14.docx

Questions and Answers

FA8553-13-R-32288

5 Aug 2014

Note: The following is a consolidation and update of all questions received after the official release of the RFP. Some of the questions have been re-addressed. It is the offerors responsibility to review the entire Q&A for changes.

Any follow-on questions to these questions should be submitted to the contracting officer at Carla.Clark@us.af.mil.

Update: The Clause DFARS 252.225.7040 has been replaced by DFARS 252.225-7995

Q1. Will the customer allow the vendor to engage/contract with a Risk Management Company (in accordance with PD62) to provide coordination with and/or mentoring to the local national security force (APPF) guarding the residential/lodging area, in line with PD 62?

A1. With respect to security and/or use of Risk Management Companies, the contract will place no additional limits or burdens on the vendor beyond the laws and regulations in place at the operating location. It is the responsibility of the vendor to understand and comply with all local laws and Combatant Commander (CENTCOM) requirements in these areas of concern. As additional information becomes available we will advise.

Q2. Will the customer allow the vendor to utilize one of the current camps authorized for use under ISAF & CENTCOM (e.g. Camp Qasaba, Camp Aggers, Camp Ramirez, Green Village, The Baron, etc.) for billeting/lodging purposes?

A2. The C-130 aircraft are operating out of the AAF Oqab Compound next to Kabul International Airport (KAIA). Contractors will be housed either at KAIA or Oqab at which there will likely be an enduring Coalition presence. However, until the Bilateral Security Agreement is signed between Afghanistan and the US; plans, policy, and posture for post-2014 operations throughout GIRoA will not be finalized. If the situation arises, negotiation concerning alternate housing can be considered.

Q3. Will the customer allow the vendor to engage/contract with a Risk Management Company (in accordance with PD62) to provide coordination with the local national security force (APPF) guarding the worksite, in line with PD 62?

A3. With respect to security and/or use of Risk Management Companies, the contract will place no additional limits or burdens on the vendor beyond the laws and regulations in place at the operating location. It is the responsibility of the vendor to understand and comply with all local laws and Combatant Commander (CENTCOM) requirements in these areas of concern. As additional information becomes available we will advise. See PWS para 5.2.9.

Q4. Request the Government consider a 60 day extension to the proposal due date. Given the upcoming holidays, the scope of work being conducted in Afghanistan and the limited amount of information provided to the Contractor we feel that additional time is needed to submit a thorough and compliant proposal.

A4. Not applicable. See amendment FA8553-13-R-32288-0004

Q5. Please confirm that the US Government will be providing US military security/force protection for Contractor personnel at the site? If USG is not providing security, what force protection resources will be provided to Contractor personnel? If Contractor determines that these non US military security resources are insufficient, is the Contractor entitled to seek additional force protection services for the safety of our personnel.

A5. With respect to security and/or use of Risk Management Companies, the contract will place no additional limits or burdens on the vendor beyond the laws and regulations in place at the operating location. It is the responsibility of the vendor to understand and comply with all local laws and Combatant Commander (CENTCOM) requirements in these areas of concern. As additional information becomes available we will advise. See PWS para 5.2.9.

Q6. Please include the Ground and Flight Risk clause in the Final RFP (DFAR 252.228-7001)

A6. The Ground and Flight Risk clause (DFARS 252.228-7001) was omitted in error and will be included in the next solicitation amendment when it is released.

Q7. With the release of the final RFP, request the Government conduct another Industry Day to review the requirements and address comments/questions from Industry. A second Industry Day would benefit the Government by having concerns and issues addressed early in the procurement process and reduce delays.

A7. Due to schedule constraints, the USG will not be holding a subsequent Industry Day.

Q8. In addition to a second Industry Day, request the Government consider one on one session with companies following the Industry Day. This would allow an open dialogue between Government and Industry regarding questions regarding the RFP and provide early identification of issues and concerns Industry may see with RFP.

A8. The USG will not hold another Industry Day, and will not have additional one-on-one sessions.

Q9. Please confirm that Contractor will only be taking direction from the US Government on this contract and approval of the maintenance actions, aircraft availability and all technical direction will come from the US Government, not the Afghanistan Air Force?

A9. The resultant contract will be between the successful offeror and the USG. All OFFICIAL directions will come from the respective USG Contracting Officer or designated Contracting Officer Representative (COR).

Q10. Please confirm that the Contractor will be able to conduct a site survey prior to the Proposal Submission?

A10. No, potential offerors may not conduct a site survey prior to proposal submission.

Q11. If the Government will not allow the Contractor to conduct a site survey prior to Final RFP release and the Contractor is solely reliant on the Government site survey that was done in March/April timeframe without the assistance of Contractor personnel, please confirm that Contractor will be entitled to perform an assessment of the site and facilities and an environmental assessment prior to the transition in period and any safety, ESH, hazardous issues will be corrected by the Government prior to the start of the transition period and Contractor will be held responsible for only damages, etc. that occur during contractors possession.

A11. It is not the USG’s intent to correct any safety, ESH, or hazardous issues prior to transition completion, although requests from the Contractor will be considered; however, the Contractor will be ONLY held responsible for damages, etc. that occur during contractor’s possession.

Q12. When does the Government expect all 4 C-130H aircraft to be at the site?

A12. The USG expects all 4 C-130H aircraft to be at KAIA NLT 31 Dec 2014.

Q13. Please confirm that the Contractor will be entitled to perform an assessment of the 4 C-130H aircraft during the transition period to assess that each C-130H aircraft are fully operational when received. If the Contractor notes issues that impact the aircraft availability, please confirm that the USG will correct the issues prior to Contractor start or that the USG and Contractor will jointly discuss remedy of the issue.

A13. The Contractor will, of necessity, be entitled to perform an assessment of the on-site C-130H aircraft during the transition period to assess each C-130H aircraft’s operational capability. It is not the USG’s intent to correct any issues prior to Contractor start. The USG desires for the Contractor to provide immediate remedies to ensure all available aircraft meet the determined availability rate at the end of transition period.

Q14. Please provide a copy of all C-130H aircraft jacket files and current forms.

A14. The USG does not intend to provide this information prior to contract award. The successful offeror will have full access to desired documentation upon contract award during the transition period.

Q15. Please clarify if the PWS intentions are to USAF aircraft maintenance practices and procedures or US Army. PWS states, US Army maintenance record documentation is to be required yet with USAF C-130H aircraft jacket files due to USAF being the owner of the aircraft and USAF Supply System procedures with USAF Quality Assurance Plan leads to a mix of both Army and USAF procedures.

A15. The Afghan Air Force utilizes US Army records as a means to standardize the C-130H aircraft records with other aircraft already in the Afghan Air Force inventory. However, the intentions of the PWS are for the Contractor to provide support using “LIKE” USAF standards.

Q16. Please confirm the maintenance manuals of the C-130H aircraft will be governed in accordance with the US Air Force Technical Orders.

A16. The aircraft will be initially retained in the USAF inventory and therefore governed in accordance with US Technical Orders. At some time, to be determined the aircraft are planned to transfer to the AAF when there will be a distinct possibility that the future orders will be of a commercial design/Country Standard TOs. The USG will provide access to current Technical Orders and to Commercial variances when/if they are made available.

Q17. Could the Government please provide specifics on the billeting that is being provided? Hard or soft shelter, water, electricity, heat etc…

A17. The current inside billeting room is designed to house up to 3 individuals has dimensions of 89" X 231" (7.42' X 19.25') or 142.77 sf. Hardened shelter (billeting) located on the ISAF compound in Kabul. Billeting rooms have A/C & heat (electricity). Restrooms and showers are located in the billeting facilities. The precise billeting arrangements are subject to change based on the availability of facilities as determined by the host nation and the ISAF.

Q18. Please confirm that the Government will be providing billeting and transportation to the site and within the country.

A18. The USG will be providing billeting. The USG will be providing transportation to the site and within country if the transportation is directed by the USG. All other transportation/costs are borne by the Contractor.

Q19. Will contractor personnel being deploying to the site via a US Government deployment center? If so, what is the location of the deployment center?

A19. Per 26 Aug 13 Memorandum for Regional Contracting Centers/Offices (RCC/RCO) and Contract Support Elements (CSE) letter, SUBJECT: CONUS Replacement Center (CRC) Procedures (SCO-A-13-IM010), “All US personnel will report through a US Government (USG) approved CONUS Replacement Center (CRC) for deployment processing in accordance with DFARS 252.225.7995”. The prime contractor is responsible to make an appointment for processing by contacting a USG CRC. Contractors shall be prepared to request reservations at a CRC, other than Camp Atterbury, Indiana, and Fort Bliss, Texas. Mobilization shall be requested through the Contracting Officer. The prime contractor is also responsible for redeploying US personnel back through the CRC at the end of the contract period.

Q20. Please provide a complete list of the GFP that will be provided on this contract. To include C-130 parts, PMEL test equipment, ground support equipment, tool room material, hangar descriptions to include fire detection and fire suppression capabilities, overhead winch load capability in hangar, Employee Safety Health equipment eye wash stations and fall restraint systems, living quarters detailed descriptions, restroom provisions for both work and living quarters areas.

A20. A complete list of GFP/GFE/GFM/GFS will be provided to the contractor after contract award and when GFP/GFE/GFM/GFS are known. For purposes of the source selection, offerors are expected to propose all required equipment necessary to safely accomplish the PWS requirements. If any GFP/GFE/GFM/GFS becomes available to assist the successful offeror in performing against the contract, it will be provided and incorporated into the contract after award.

Q21. Is the Contractor responsible for shipping all GFP and Contractor provided material, spare parts and ground equipment necessary to perform this work?

A21. Yes

Q22. How will acceptance of the monthly services performed against the Firm Fixed Price CLINS be evidenced (i.e. DD250)?

A22. Acceptance will be via Wide Area WorkFlow (WAWF), in accordance with DFARS 252.232-7006—Wide Area Workflow Payment Instructions, found on page 65 of the solicitation.

Q23. Is there an acceptable % to pass the small business utilization criteria?

A23. The DoD FY 2014 goal included in the solicitation is 36.7% of total subcontracted dollars (see M-900 paragraph C). If the offeror does not believe it can meet the goal, it must provide adequate rationale specifically detailing why it cannot meet the goals.

Q24. Is there a Status of Forces Agreement or other Memorandum of Understanding that is applicable to this effort? If so, please provide.

A24. The Status of Forces Agreement or other Memorandum of Understanding is under current negotiation with Afghanistan in the form of a Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA). A copy of stated document will be provided at the earliest possible opportunity.

Q25. Will the customer allow the vendor to engage/contract with a Risk Management Company (in accordance with PD62) to provide coordination with and/or mentoring to the local national security force (APPF) guarding the residential/lodging area, in line with PD 62?

A25. With respect to security and/or use of Risk Management Companies, the contract will place no additional limits or burdens on the vendor beyond the laws and regulations in place at the operating location. It is the responsibility of the vendor to understand and comply with all local laws and Combatant Commander (CENTCOM) requirements in these areas of concern. As additional information becomes available we will advise. (See PWS para 5.2.9.)

Q26. Will the customer allow the vendor to utilize one of the current camps authorized for use under ISAF & CENTCOM (e.g. Camp Qasaba, Camp Aggers, Camp Ramirez, Green Village, The Baron, etc.) for billeting/lodging purposes?

A26. The C-130 aircraft are operating out of the AAF Oqab Compound next to Kabul International Airport (KAIA). Contractors will be housed either at KAIA or Oqab at which there will likely be an enduring Coalition presence. However, until the Bilateral Security Agreement is signed between Afghanistan and the US; plans, policy, and posture for post-2014 operations throughout GIRoA will not be finalized. If the situation arises, negotiation concerning alternate housing can be considered.

Q27. Will the customer allow the vendor to engage/contract with a Risk Management Company (in accordance with PD62) to provide coordination with the local national security force (APPF) guarding the worksite, in line with PD 62?

A27. With respect to security and/or use of Risk Management Companies, the contract will place no additional limits or burdens on the vendor beyond the laws and regulations in place at the operating location. It is the responsibility of the vendor to understand and comply with all local laws and Combatant Commander (CENTCOM) requirements in these areas of concern. As additional information becomes available we will advise. (See PWS para 5.2.9.)

Q28. If no RMC engagement or Coordinator is authorized, will personal defense weapons (PDW) be authorized in the LOA.

A28. Refer to DFARS clause 252.225-7995.

Q29. If PDWs are authorized, will the customer allow the vendor to utilize/contract with, a pre-deployment center (CONUS Replacement Course), USG provided or commercially available; to train personnel to the appropriate standard for deployment with a personal defense weapon?

A29. Refer to DFARS clause 252.225-7995.

Q30. If PDWs are authorized, can/will USG provide weapons or authorize the procurement?

A30. Refer to DFARS clause 252.225-7995.

Q31. Please confirm that the Contractor will be entitled to perform an environmental closeout assessment prior to the end of the POP. After which, Contractor will not be responsible/liable for any environmental damage.

A31. The contractor is required to develop and follow an Environmental Health and Safety Plan that will be in compliance with Attachment 6 and the requirements of the PWS paragraph 5.5 and subparagraphs.

Q32. Please describe the process of how task orders will be issued against this IDIQ? Will the Contractor provide a proposal to a Government task order RFP? Will task orders be issues unilaterally or bilaterally?

A32. Most CLINS will be priced at the time of award. The USG can place an order for pre-priced services in accordance with the terms of the contract unilaterally. Any unpriced CLINS or orders that will require negotiation/changes will be issued bilaterally.

Q33. Will the labor rates/material rates proposed in Attachment 003 be incorporated into the Contract?

A33. Yes, rates proposed in Attachment 3 will be incorporated into the resultant contract.

Q34. Will the monthly rates provided in Schedule B for CLINS 0002-0006 be incorporated into the awarded contract or are those monthly rates only provided for evaluation purposes only?

A34. All of the successful offeror’s proposed prices in Schedule B will become a part of the resultant contract. They may not all be used as a part of the total evaluated price, as stated in M-900 paragraph B.

Q35. Is the Contractor to include pricing for the sample tasks? If so, where is that pricing to be included in the proposal?

A35. The offeror does not include pricing for the sample tasks.

Q36. Is the Contractor authorized to invoice monthly against the Firm Fixed Price CLINS?

A36. Where the CLIN structure is set up for monthly payments, the contractor may bill monthly. This primarily applies to Firm Fixed Price labor CLINS. Cost-reimbursable CLINS are typically billed as costs are incurred. CLINS specifying 1 Lot as the unit that are not Cost-Reimbursable will be paid after the work on that CLIN is completed. The performance incentive will be assessed on a monthly basis, but will be paid annually.

Q37. Are there specific criteria that the Contractor must meet against the Firm Fixed price CLIN for the monthly effort performed to be accepted or is submission of the invoice in WAWF considered acceptance?

A37. The contractor will use WAWF, in accordance with DFARS 252.232-7006—Wide Area Workflow Payment Instructions and DFARS 252.232-7003 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests and Receiving Reports.

Q38. How will the Government determine when a requirement will necessitate the use of the surge CLIN? Will the Contractor be able to request the use of the surge CLIN if they feel the requirements are advancing to a level greater than what was bid?

A38. The use of the surge CLIN could be either USG directed or Contractor requested and USG agreed upon. (PWS para 4.1.5) Use of the surge CLIN shall only be for surge conditions and not for “requirements advancing to a level greater than what was bid.” Each use of the surge CLIN will be individually authorized and negotiated, in accordance with the rates set forth in Attachment 3.

Q39. The Government's response to question 53 (of the draft RFP questions) indicated that the USG will not be providing security to Contractor personnel and Security would be provided by APPF. However, the RFP include DFAR 252.225-7040 (CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL AUTHORIZED TO ACCOMPANY U.S. ARMED FORCES DEPLOYED OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES) which gives us the impression that Contractor personnel will be embedded with US Forces and provided Security by US Forces and under the direction of the Combatant Commander. This clause appears to conflict with the response provided to Q53. Does the DFAR clause take precedence over the response to Q53? Will the USG be providing security?

A39. No conflict is intended. Refer to DFARS DFAR 252.225-7995. At present, the USG is providing security at KAIA. However, there is a transition plan (base by base) where the USG will cease to provide security and the contractor will be required to contract with the APPF to provide security. It is unknown at this time precisely when this contract’s operating location will transition from USG-provided security to APPF-provided security.

Q40. If the USG will not be providing security and if the Contractor determines that conditions in Afghanistan have deteriorated to an unsafe level and determines that for the safety of Contractor personnel they must evacuate the area. Please confirm that the Contractor will not be penalized for any evacuation of personnel and the USG will consider such action as an excusable delay and the USG and the contractor shall negotiate a contract price adjustment and de-scope.

A40. IAW DFARS 252.225-7995 there are provisions for evacuation/work stoppage.

Q41. Please confirm that the Contractor will be entitled to perform a closeout environmental assessment prior to the end of the Period of Performance. Any following that assessment will not be responsible or liable for any environmental damages.

A41. The contractor is required to develop and follow an Environmental Health and Safety Plan that will be in compliance with Attachment 6 and the requirements of the PWS paragraph 5.5 and subparagraphs.

Q42. Is the divisor for Option Years 1 through 4 incorrectly identified in the CLIN description? Contractor suggests the correct divisor is 12, which aligns with the quantity of months identified in preceding text.

A42. For CLIN X016 in the option years, yes the description of the performance incentive incorrectly reads “The resultant amount will be divided by 8 months…” This will be corrected with the next solicitation amendment release.

Q43. May the print within tables, charts, graphs, drawings, diagrams, supporting illustrations, spreadsheets, and text callout boxes be smaller than a font size of 12? If so, would you please specify allowable font size?

A43. Font size within tables, charts, graphs, drawings, diagrams, supporting illustrations, spreadsheets, and text callout boxes must be equal to or larger than 8. This will be updated with next solicitation amendment release.

Q44. Must the text within headers, footers, tables, charts, graphs, drawings, diagrams, supporting illustrations, spreadsheets, text callout boxes, bulleted lists, captions also be double spaced?

A44. Text within headers, footers, tables, charts, graphs, drawings, diagrams, supporting illustrations, spreadsheets, text callout boxes, bulleted lists, captions DO NOT need to be double spaced.

Q45. Is Volume I - Completed RFP intended to contain any other documents or attachments in addition to Solicitation Sections A-M, RFP Attachment 9, Total Compensation Plan, and Small Business Subcontracting Plan? If so, please specify the other documents that must be included within Volume I.

A45. No other documents are expected in Volume I.

Q46. RFP Attachment 8 – Past Performance Questionnaire shall be treated as Source Selection Sensitive when filled in and cannot be completed by Offerors. Additionally, Attachment 7 – Relevancy Table information will be part of Volume III-Past Performance. Question – Is it the Government’s intent for Offerors to “fill in” information for all attachments and include them in Volume I – Completed RFP?

A46. Yes, the RFP Attachment 8 – Past Performance Questionnaire shall be treated as Source Selection Sensitive when filled in but, although it cannot be completed by Offerors, it can be started by the Offerors. It is the Government’s intent for Offerors to “fill in” information for all attachments but only to include them with the volumes they apply too. No RFP attachments are applicable to Volume 1.

Q47. RFP Attachment 7 - Relevancy Table is a FACTS Sheet requesting most of the information provided in the PPI tool (e.g., G. Period of Performance, I. Brief Description of Effort, J. Primary Points of Contact) and the Relevancy Table. Question – Contractor believes the Government’s intention is for the Offeror/joint venture member/critical subcontractor to only complete the relevancy table in Attachment 7 and include it in Volume III – Past Performance. Is Contractor's understanding correct?

A47. Correct, the Relevancy Table Attachment 7 has been revised and does not include the FACTS Sheet information. FACTS Sheet information is included in the PPI tool. The Past Performance printout will be provided in hard copy and included in Volume III in addition to electronic submittal. Attachment 15 provides instructions for the PPI tool. The Relevancy Table, Attachment 7 is to be included in Volume III.

Q48. The Government’s answer to Industry Day Question 31 confirmed that countermeasures are being removed from the four C-130H aircraft. Question– Is it the Government’s intent to have Offerors source a test set for counter measures even though the four C-130H aircraft will not be equipped with any counter measures?

A48. The National Stock Numbers (NSNs) selected for sourcing in Sample Task 4 are notional and do not necessarily reflect the NSNs that will be required for performance of the resultant contract.

Q49. (Reference: Question and Answers posted FBO on 15 November 2013) Table at L-900(A) shows that a bidder’s small business subcontracting plan is to be included in Volume I; however, L-900(B) Volume I, Completed RFP does not mention the inclusion of a bidder’s small business subcontracting plan. Are bidders required to submit their small business subcontracting plan pursuant to FAR 52.219-9 with their proposal or prior to contract award?

A49. Per the table in L-900 paragraph A, the Small Business Subcontracting Plan, if required, must be submitted with Volume I.

Q50. PWS 1.2 Scope, last sentence, states: “Air operations will include Passenger (PAX) transport, life support equipment support, and cargo transport”; however, PWS 4.18 and CLIN X004 does not mention that the contractor shall provide PAX or cargo transport services.

Should PWS 4.18 include “passenger (PAX) transport” and “cargo transport” or should CLINX004 include reference to both PWS 4.18 and 1.2?

A50. The sentence, “Air operations will include Passenger (PAX) transport, life support equipment support, and cargo transport.” will be removed from PWS section 1.2 in the next solicitation amendment.

Q51. If air cargo operations are required, what is the working MOG for the aircraft?

A51. Air Cargo operations are not required.

Q52. CLIN 0015AL references 4.21.1 - Web-Based Management Information System (MIS). Should the PWS reference be 4.22.1 - AAF Training Plan - vice 4.21.1?

A52. The PWS has been renumbered. MIS is 4.11.

Q53. CLIN X015AM Safety and Health Plan: References App C - MESL. Is this reference correct?

A53. Yes, CLIN X015AM Safety and Health Plan references Attachment 6 to the RFP, which is called Appendix C.

Q54. CLIN X016 references PWS 4.1.1 - Definition of Mission-Essential Services. CLIN X016: Should PWS 4.11 – Aircraft Availability - be referenced vice 4.1.1?

A54. The PWS has been renumbered. AA is 4.1.

Q55. L-900.B pg. 122 states proposals are due NLT 5PM eastern daylight savings time. SF1447, block 9, states 4PM. What is the correct local time of delivery?

A55. Due date/time will be provided with next solicitation amendment.

Q56. L-900.D Vol III Past Performance: Is another division performing on the contract that has a separate CAGE/DUNS considered a critical subcontractor and as such requires past performance contract submission. Alternatively, are they considered part of the prime contractor?

A56. If two or more separate divisions identified by different CAGE codes are teaming together to accomplish this work and the Prime division is using the secondary division for more than 30% of the work as described in L-900 paragraph D, then they would be considered a critical subcontractor. If the other division is determined to be a critical subcontractor, the prime could highlight past performance from that critical subcontractor.

Q57. L-900.F(2) states: “The paper and electronic copies shall be identical in all respects.

Electronics submittals shall comply with the instructions in paragraph A, pages 1 and 2.” Is this reference to Attachment 4?

A57. The electronic copy referenced in L-900 F(2) is Attachment 3, the Labor Rates Matrix. All electronic submissions should follow the guidelines provided in Attachment 4, Electronic Format for all Proposal Volumes.

Q58. M-900.2(D)(iv)(3) shows “Cost Reimbursable (CR) CLINs X011, X013, X014 and FFP CLINS X015AL and X016 will not be included in the TEP. Should this include X007 as well?

A58. No, X007 will still be considered as part of the TEP. (Offeror to propose Material Add-on factor (IAW Attachment 3) to be applied to Government estimated material dollars." Ref: Section M) Q59. Can the Government clarify whether the award contract will contain Local Afghan Clause 952.228-0001 for DBA?

A59. No, FAR 52.228-3 Workers’ Compensation Insurance (Defense Base Act) is included.

Q60. If so, will the task order contain a separate Cost Reimbursable CLIN for DBA costs?

A60. No, there will be no separate CLIN for these costs.

Q61. Will these costs be included in the total evaluated price at the time of award or should we exclude them from our pricing at this time?

A61. All anticipated costs should be included in the proposal. Determination of the TEP will be in accordance with M-900 Paragraph D.

Q62. Is it possible for the Government to clarify the meaning of “Platform Level 1” as found in Attachment 7 of the Solicitation packet?

A62. Program Complexity category which includes Platform Level has been deleted from relevancy table.

Q63. Would the government amend or remove DFARS 252.242-7004 Material Management and Accounting System (MMAS) clause from Solicitation so as to prohibit its application to “services” type efforts? DFARS 252.242-7004 is written to address needs and challenges primarily associated with “manufacturing” efforts. Many service industry contractors do not have a DFARS 252.242-7004 compliant MMAS because the need and objective of such system is not applicable to “services” work. Service contractors will still be able to meet all objectives and requirements of PWS Section 4.21 (Management Information System) without having a DFARS 252.242-7004 compliant MMAS. A strict requirement for a MMAS per DFARS 252.242.7004 may eliminate some future bidders.

A63. In accordance with DFARS 242.7200 Clause, DFARS 252.242-7004 Material Management and Accounting System (MMAS) is included because this acquisition exceeds simplified acquisition threshold, and contains CR and FFP pricing arrangements. The CLS provider’s responsibilities are to provide positive asset control throughout the entire supply chain to include repair actions.

Q64. Solicitation does not contain DFARS 252.228-7001 (Ground and Flight Risk) clause. Would government amend Solicitation to include the DFARS Ground and Flight Risk clause?

A64. The Ground and Flight Risk clause (DFARS 252.228-7001) was omitted in error and will be included in the next solicitation amendment when it is released.

Q65. Solicitation does not contain FAR 52.246-23 (Limitation of Liability) clause. Would government amended Solicitation to include such clause?

A65. FAR 52.246-23, FAR 52.246-24, FAR 52.246-25 Limitation of Liability Services Clause will be included in the next solicitation amendment when it is released.

Q66. Solicitation does not contain FAR 52.246-23 (Limitation of Liability-High Value Items) clause. Would government amended Solicitation to include such clause?

A66. See A65.

Q67. Solicitation does not contain DFARS 252.228-7003 (Capture and Detention) clause. Would government amended Solicitation to include such clause?

A67. No, as contractors are covered by the War Hazard Compensation Act. The clause at 252.228-7003, Capture and Detention, may be used when contractor employees are subject to capture and detention and may not be covered by the War Hazards Compensation Act (42 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.).

Q68. Would USG amend this PWS provision to allow contractor to return property in condition provided "less normal wear and tear and manufacturing defects" in order to be consistent with FAR 52.245-1 (Government Property) clause in Solicitation?

A68. The FAR 52.245-1 (Government Property) clause in the solicitation will also be found in the resultant contract. No additional language is necessary in the PWS.

Q69. Solicitation does not contain a Section D. Will Solicitation be amended to include a Section D so terms and provisions can be reviewed?

A69. Section D is currently not required; it will be added if necessary.

Q70. Will the Government reimburse the contractor for travel expenses related to mobilization, demobilization, or Rest & Relaxation travel under CLIN X014?

A70. See PWS Paragraph. 4.14 and the RFP for Travel.

Q71. The Contractor anticipates an inventory of aircraft materials will be required beginning on Day 1 of the Base Year in order to meet performance metrics. Will the Government reimburse the contractor under CLIN X0007 for aircraft parts or materials purchased during transition to support the aircraft?

A71. Aircraft parts or materials purchased during transition to support the aircraft will be reimbursed under CLIN X007.

Q72. Will the Government provide an estimated date for the Transition?

A72. The estimated date for Transition start is upon contract award, the estimated date for transition conclusion is 120 days after contract award.

Q73. Please provide guidance to the Contractor on how the Contractor can estimate small business participation without the material estimate. Will the Government reconsider the decision not to disclose the estimated material dollars?

A73. The contractor must develop an estimate for materials, with the assumption that the contractor will have to provide all material necessary to accomplish the acquisition. The Government will not provide an estimate.

Q74. Will the government provide reimburse consumable parts under CLIN X007, or is the contractor expected to provide consumable parts in the Firm Fixed Price CLINs? If priced under the Firm Fixed Price, will the Government provide usage data?

A74. Consumable parts will be reimbursed under CLIN X007.

Q75. Will the government please confirm the government's point of contact to receive Present/Past Performance Questionnaire responses along with telephone number, facsimile number, email and USPS mailing address?

------------------------------------Q&A Updates July 28, 2014---------------------------------------

A75. Update. Carla Clark,( Carla.clark@us.af.mil ) is the new point of contact. The address is as follows: AFLCMC/WLKCB, Attn: Carla Clark, 235 Byron Street, Suite 19A, Robins AFB GA 31098. . Mailed Past Performance Questionnaires should be marked as follows: TO BE OPENED BY ADDRESSEE ONLY and will need to include the following legend: SOURCE SELECTION INFORMATION –SEE FAR 2.101 AND 3.104 FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY. The fax number is (478) 222-2177 and Carla Clark’s phone number is (478) 327-8244.

Q76. The Site Survey document (attachment 14) stated the following: There is a new C-130 Hangar to be constructed to the northwest side of Apron 9. The project is already awarded and currently in the middle of a modification by US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The Notice to Proceed (NTP) was issued last month and construction was set to begin starting March of 2013. The hanger mod was submitted 31 Jan 13 and it is not expected to have a resolution from the USACE for several months. If approved, completion of the hanger would be at the latest December of 2014.

Q76: Was the construction approved and is the estimated completion date of this hangar still December 2014?

A76. The planned construction was not approved and the construction of the hangar has been cancelled.

Q77. Are bidders required to resubmit past performance questionnaires if they were submitted earlier this year prior to the indefinite postponement?

A77. Yes, if past performance changed as a result of the updates to the RFP or the offeror wants to ensure the questionnaires were received by the Government.

Q78. Section L-900 Section B. Volume I, Completed RFP first sentence states offerors shall include the “completed and signed RFP”. Does the Government want all previous versions of the RFP including attachments submitted in Volume 1?

A78. Yes, all Amendments are to be signed and submitted in accordance with Block E of the SF 30.

Q79. PWS 1.0 Description of Services states “The Contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, materials, spares, supervision, other items, and non-personnel services necessary to perform the following: Organizational (O) and authorized Intermediate (I) level aircraft maintenance. Can the Government clarify what it means by and/or how it defines “authorized” Intermediate level maintenance?

A79. Intermediate-Level Maintenance is defined as maintenance consisting of those off-equipment tasks normally performed using the resources of the operating command at an operating location or at a centralized intermediate repair facility. (Ref. AFI 21-101) Organizational and authorized I-Level Maintenance should include the support required for accomplishment of day to day flying mission. Other I-Level maintenance may include repairs that are accomplished when requests are made for assistance or approvals that are authorized by the Government Engineering Authority and approved by the Contracting Officer to repair on site.

Q80. PWS 2.0 Services Summary. Will the Government include a clause for excusable delays in the consideration of the performance based clauses of the PWS (such as the receipt of data/document)?

A80. No, the Government will not include a clause.

Q81. PWS Section 2.1 Monetary Performance Incentives and Remedies paragraph 3 states “This performance incentive will not be implemented until both, all planned aircraft are on-site at Kabul”. Can the Government clarify or correct the typo?

A81. This is not a typo; there are two conditions that must be met in accordance with the PWS.

Q82. Will the Government release a list of “probable” Government-furnished property/ equipment/material?

A82.This will be released to the awardee when it becomes available.

Q83. Are the facilities the same as those described in Answer 17 of the Questions and Answers released January 15th?

A83. Yes

Q84. PWS Section 4.7.13 Aircraft Maintenance Planning states “The Contractor shall schedule and manage all aircraft maintenance (short and long term) planning and all depot visits”. Is the offeror responsible for managing the aircraft while in depot maintenance?

A84. The offeror is responsible for aircraft management and scheduling to ensure 2 AA is achieved. Should the offeror feel that some level of involvement is prudent or diligent in order to be aware of that aircrafts status during PDM, will be up to the offeror.

Q85. How does the Government determine acceptability of an offeror’s Small Business Concern Utilization Plan?

A85. See Section M, paragraph C of the RFP.

Q86. Section L-900 C Subfactor 4 Engineering Actions refers to Attachment 13Task Scenario 4 and PWS Section 4.7 Engineering. J13 Sample Task #’s 3 and 4 refer to Subfactor 3 Logistics, not Engineering. Are J13 Sample Tasks 3 and 4 referring to the correct subfactor?

A86. The Government is not aware of a Sample Task named J13 Sample Task, however; Sample Task 4 has been corrected in Attachment 13 as Subfactor 4: Engineering Services.

Q87. Section L-900 C, Volume II Written Technical Proposal (2) states “the technical proposal shall address each of the following subfactors describing the offeror’s proposed approach to performing the requirements set forth in the PWS including identification of deficiencies, weaknesses, and significant weaknesses, associated with each technical evaluation factor/subfactor”. Does this mean the offeror shall identify deficiencies and weaknesses in its approach?

A87. The proposal will be evaluated in accordance with Section M-900

Q88. With the release of the final RFP, request the Government conduct another Industry Day to review the requirements and address comments/questions from Industry. A second Industry Day would benefit the Government by having concerns and issues addressed early in the procurement process and reduce delays.

A88. The Government will not hold an additional industry day.

Q89. In addition to a second Industry Day, request the Government consider one on one session with companies following the Industry Day. This would allow an open dialogue between Government and Industry regarding questions regarding the RFP and provide early identification of issues and concerns Industry may see with RFP.

A89. The Government will not hold an additional industry day or one on one sessions.

Q90. Please confirm that the Contractor will be entitled to perform an assessment of the 4 C-130H aircraft during the transition period to assess that each C-130H aircraft are fully operational when received? If the Contractor notes issues that impact the aircraft availability, please confirm that the USG will correct the issues prior to Contractor start or that the USG and Contractor will jointly discuss remedy of the issue and the AA requirement will not begin until the aircraft are fully operational. Should the aircraft have significant issues that can not be corrected within the transition period due to lead time on material or parts or other issues outside the Contractor's control, please confirm that the AA for that aircraft will not be included in the performance incentive calculation?

A90. The Contractor will, of necessity, be entitled to perform an assessment of the 4 C-130H aircraft during the transition period to assess each C-130H aircraft’s operational capability. It is not the USG’s intent to correct any issues prior to Contractor start. The USG desires for the Contractor to provide immediate remedies to ensure all available aircraft meet the determined availability rate at the end of transition period.

Q91. If the Government will not allow the Contractor to conduct a site survey prior to Final RFP release and the Contractor is solely reliant on the Government site survey that was done in March/April 2013 timeframe without the assistance of Contractor personnel, please confirm that Contractor will be entitled to perform an assessment of the site and facilities and an environmental assessment during the transition in period and any safety, ESH, hazardous issues will be corrected by the Government prior to the start of the base period and Contractor will be held responsible for only damages, etc. that occur during contractors possession.

A91. See answer A11.

Q92. Can the Government provide the latest maintenance records for the 4 C-130H's that the Contractor will be responsible for.

A92. Maintenance records will be provided to the successful offeror.

Q93. What is the approval timeframe for Contractor submitted CDRLS? Request Government include a statement that CDRLs submitted by the Contractor will be approved or responded to within 10 working days of submission. If Government does not provide a response after 10 working days of submission then CDRL is deemed accepted. The inclusion of a Government response timeframe will alleviate any confusion on which CDRLs are approved and which are pending approval.

A93. The Government will not include a statement. The Government will follow the Quality of data/document Performance Threshold provided in the Services Summary.

Q94. Is there a Status of Forces Agreement or other Memoradum of Understanding that is applicable to this effort? If so, please provide.

A94. There is not currently a SOFA or MOU available. These will be provided to the offeror when they become available.

Q95. Please confirm that the Contractor will be entitled to perform an environmental baseline during the transition in period and any environmental and safety conditions will be addressed during the transition in period. If any environmental or safety condition would impact the performance of the contract after transition, that the Contractor would not be penalized while the issue is corrected.

A94. The contractor is required to develop and follow an Environmental Health and Safety Plan that will be in compliance with Attachment 6 (Appendix C) and the requirements of the PWS.

Q95. Please confirm that the Contractor will be entitled to perform a closeout environmental assessment prior to the end of the Period of Performance. And following that assessment the Contractor will not be responsible or liable for any environmental damages.

A95. The contractor is required to develop and follow an Environmental Health and Safety Plan that will be in compliance with Attachment 6 (Appendix C) and the requirements of the PWS.

Q96. If something is outside the control of the Contractor, (i.e. unavability of parts, end of life for parts, USG unable to provide expected GFP, damage caused by third party etc…) will the contractor be entitled to renegotiate the FFP monthly rate or seek an equitable adjustment and will there be relief in the AA requirement?

A96. In the event something is outside the control of the Contractor, (i.e. unavability of parts, end of life for parts, USG unable to provide expected GFP, damage caused by third party etc…) then the contractor should submit a request to the Government CO for consideration.

Q97. Please clarify how the performance incentive/remedy would be calculated. For example, if the Contractor received a 90% AA rate in months 1, 2 and 3 and a 80% AA rate in months 4-10 and a 60% AA rate in months 11 and 12, we assume that at the end of the year the Contractor would receive 1 month of incentive payment as the remaining 2 months of performance incentive would be cancelled out by the 2 months of performance remedy received in months 11 and 12? Is this correct?

A97. One month of incentive monetary award would be correct, however per PWS paragraph 2.1.1 if the contractor received a Level II or Level III CAR no Incentive would be paid.

Q98. With no Security Bilateral Agreement in place at this time between the USA and Afghanistan, and the APPF being disbanded previously in 2014, will there be any US or Nato Government Furnished Services for Security of the contractor personnel at both the work and living facilities/locations?

A98. The APPF has NOT been completely disbanded. It still exists as a smaller organization within Afghan Ministry of Interior (MoI). Current theater business still includes APPF support at KAIA. If the scenario changes, the successful offeror will be notified.

Q99. The lack of a defined GFE/GFP list could affect the FFP Labor costs dramatically, would the USG consider changing all the labor CLIN's to CPFF due to the unknown GFE/GFP that will be available?

A99. No, the Government will not change the Labor CLINs to CPFF.

Q100. The lack of a defined GFE/GFP list could affect the amount of Materials required during this contract, would the USG consider changing the Materials CLIN to CPFF to allow for fee? If not, would the Government consider including langauge that would allow for fee to be earned on material should material purchases reach a certain % of the contract value?

A100. No, the Government will not change the Materials CLINs to CPFF, nor permit a fee if material costs exceed a defined threshold.

Q101. The lack of a defined GFE/GFP list could affect the Transition to Full Operational Capability from a Logistics perspective, would the USG consider changing the Transition CLIN to CPFF?

A101. No, the Government will not change the Transition CLIN to CPFF.

Q102. Will the USG provide all historical documentation for each individual aircraft (jacket files, historical maintenance modifications, TCTO's, Service Bulletins) at Final RFP?

A102. See answer A92.

Q103. Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages, will the USG provide the contractor a list of all aircraft systems and subsystems associated per each aircraft at Final RFP?

A103. This configuration will be made available to the successful offeror.

Q104. Aircraft Maintenance Planning: will the USG provide the contractor a list of all Isochronal and PDM dates last completed at Final RFP per each aircraft?

A104. The successful offeror will use AIRCAT to access this data.

Q105. Will the USG provide the contractor a list of all applicable COTS equipment that will require OEM subscription services that is currently installed in the aircraft?

A105. The offeror is responsible for determining any or all applicable COTS equipment necessary to achieve and maintain 2 Aircraft Availability (AA).

Q106. The MIS will require all relevant aircraft and logistics information that will support this opportunity and will require a customized system based upon the inputs/data provided. Due to the lack of detail and ability to customize the MIS at this time will the USG consider making the MIS a CPFF CLIN?

A106. No, the USG will not change the CLIN.

Q107. Taking into consideration the dynamics of the Afghanistan Air Force personnel staffing levels and utilization rate of the current C-130's already assigned, would the USG consider replacing the Monetary Performance Incentive and Remedies approach for a CPFF CLIN structure across all CLINS that directly support In Country efforts?

A107. No Q108 a. If the Contractor deems a Risk Management Company is required for security of contractor personnel at KAIA, are the costs for this RMC to be included in the Security Services with GIRoA/APPF CLIN?

A108 a. RMCs do not provide security, they provide advisory services. See Attachment 18 of the solicitation for direction. Yes, the costs for RMC are to be included in the X012 CLINs.

Q108 b. Given the amount of risk assumed by Contractor personnel working in austere conditions, would the Government consider changing the contract type from Cost Reimbursable-No Fee to Cost Plus Fixed Fee?

A108 b. No, the Government will not consider changing the contract type from Cost Reimbursable-No Fee to Cost Plus Fixed Fee Q109. Request the Government consider changing the Engineering, Operations, Logistics and Maintenance CLIN structure from FFP to Cost Plus Fixed Fee or Award Fee. The scope of these Firm Fixed Price CLIN lacks the definition needed for an Offeror to prepare a Firm Fixed Price bid.