MSC Q A 2.5.10.pdf

MSC Questions and Answers February 5, 2010

Question Answer 1 Does radio have data link capability? Answer. The radio does not make a data link available to the Offeror.

2 Can you speak to the most significant shortfalls of the current MSS?

Answer. We will not address current MSS performance.

3 In particular, can you comment on its reliability, MTBF, MTBR, or other relevant metrics?

Answer. We will not address current MSS performance.

4 Does the human target velocity spec of 0.5 mile/hour apply to the radar?

Answer. The RFP does not specifically require a radar. It is up to the Offeror to define the solution.

5 Provide detail on the end to end loop for real time pointing latency; when does this start?

When doe this end?

Answer. See MSCM C2, where the guidance given is “Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with capability objectives.”

6 Laser eye safety… Is this requirement dependent on a certain range?

Answer. See revised MSCM C12.

7 Does requirement for no earth penetrating anchors apply to lightning protection in ground rod?

Answer. See revised MSCM C26. The RFP’s MSCM C26 has been revised to clarify “no earth penetrating devices of any kind.”

8 Does motion imaging sensor mean video motion detection?

Answer. See revised MSCM C4.

9 Please elaborate on sub-factor C20 and the capability derived from integrity into a C3 system. C20: The MSC integrates all components into a unified C3 system that can be operated from a centralized position.

Answer. The RFP has been revised to clarify this, consistent with the following. The MSCM “C20 … unified command, control and communications (C3) system that can be operated from a common position” shall be located within the “operator workspace” described in MSCM C17, to allow command and control by a single operator from one location co-located with the sensor assets.

10 Will suppliers have the ability to make system improvements, component substitutions after the first 2 units are tested/accepted? If they will, what will be the process for making product changes?

Answer. The Government is reviewing this question and will provide an answer in the future.

11 Can the Government define prior to award if the GFE vehicle will be a Ford F450 or Chevrolet 4500? Once the government delivers the first GFE vehicle will the deliveries of all subsequent GFE vehicles be the same make & model?

Answer. See revised RFP.

12 Information has been provided that the GMC C4500 is no longer in production and stock inventory levels are essentially zero. As that is a make/model identified in the solicitation, please comment on the likelihood of that make/model being furnished GFE.

Answer. The GMC C4500 refers to the grade of vehicle not the specific vehicle available at time of award (see MSCM C17).

13 Is there a requirement for a breakdown time that is analogous to the 0.5 hour desired time to erect?

Answer. See revised MSCM C26.

14 Please identify the peripheral equipment that is required (and will be provided GFE) to install the LMR radio (ie. cables, antenna, mounting bracketry, etc.)

Answer. Below is a representative parts list of a typical standard Motorola radio package.

This is subject to GSA schedule, and therefore subject to changes beyond CBPs control.

ASTRO DIGITAL XTL5000 'O5' MOBILE RADIO

M20KTS9PW1_N XTL5000 VHF MOBILE 25-110 WATT 136-174 MHZ

G806

ENH: SOFTWARE ASTRO DIGITAL CAI

OPERATION

G48 ENH: CONVENTIONAL OPERATION

G114 ENH: ENHANCED DIGITAL ID DISPLAY

G387 ADD: CONVENTIONAL VOTING SCAN ASTRO

G159 ADD: ENCRYPTION UCM HARDWARE

G851

ADD: AES WITH DES-XL / DES-OFB

ENCRYPTION

G298 ADD: ENCRYPTION P25 AND MDC OTAR

G300 ADD: 1/4 WAVE ROOF TOP ANTENNA VHF

W12 ADD: RF PREAMPLIFIER

W432

ENH: SPEAKER - INCREASED AUDIO POWER

10W

W947 ADD: RS232 DATA INTERFACE

G655

ADD: QUICK REL REMOTE MOUNT W/KEY

LOCK

G444 ADD: CONTROL HEAD SOFTWARE, O5

G442 ADD: O5 CONTROL HEAD

W20 ADD: KEYPAD MICROPHONE

15 C1 – Are the units for minimum detectable velocity stated in C1 correct? Should they be meters/second?

Answer. See revised MSCM C1.

16 C2 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Human thermal signature display”. a. Please clarify what is meant by the requirement?

Answer. The desired capability is stated in sentence form as C2 under the column heading “MSC Capability (Subfactor).” Here the question uses the word “requirement” and “expectation” where no “requirement” or “expectation” is intended. What is intended is for the Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with the desired capability of C3.

17 C2 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Vehicle thermal signature display”. a. Please clarify what is meant by the requirement?

Answer. The desired capability is stated in sentence form as MSCM C2 under the column heading “MSC Capability (Subfactor).” The intent is for the Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with the desired capability of MSCM C2.

18 C2 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Image stability”. a. Please define the expectations for image stability?

Answer. The desired capability is stated in sentence form as MSCM C2 under the column heading “MSC Capability (Subfactor).” The intent is for the Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with the desired capability of MSCM C2.

19 C3 – Under the Parameter column it states, “High resolution video display”. a. Please define the expectations for video display?

Answer. The government has no specified threshold capabilities for “High resolution video display”. It is the government’s expectation that the Offeror will propose parameter/metric values consistent with the Offeror’s proposed capability of MSCM C3.

20 C3 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Image stability”. a. Please define the expectations for image stability?

Answer. The government has no specified threshold capabilities for “Image stability”. It is the government’s expectation that the Offeror will propose parameter/metric values consistent with the Offeror’s proposed capability of MSCM C3.

21 C3 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Image Change Detection”. a. Please define the expectations for Image Change Detection?

Answer. The government has no specified threshold capabilities for “Image Change Detection”. It is the government’s expectation that the Offeror will propose parameter/metric values consistent with the Offeror’s proposed capability of MSCM C3.

22 C3 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Residual image jitter”. a. Please define the expectations for Residual image jitter?

Answer. See revised MSCM C3.

23 C4 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Narrow FOV detection mode of IoI in motion imaging”. a. Please clarify if this requirement refers to video motion detection?

Answer. See revised MSCM C4.

24 C6 – Under the Parameter column it states, “Identification with clutter in FOV”. a. Please clarify what is regarded as clutter?

Answer. Clutter is a term often associated with unwanted echoes from radar, but in principle could apply to unwanted results from imaging technologies and other technologies as well, and we use the term in this broader sense.

The Oxford Essential Dictionary of the U.S.

Military (©2001) defines “radar clutter” as “radar clutter unwanted signals, echoes, or images on the face of the display screen, which interfere with the observation of desired signals.” See:

http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O63-radarclutter.html.

25 C8 - Under the Parameter column it states, “Provides automated detection and monitoring of moving objects within motion imaging field-of-view”. a. Please elaborate on expectations for this requirement?

Answer. This parameter requests information from the Offeror regarding the degree to which the Offeror’s proposed solution provides automated assistance to the Border Patrol Agent regarding detection and monitoring of moving objects within motion imaging field-of-view. There is no threshold associated with the parameter. However, the Objective is for the Offeror’s solution to provide automated assistance to the Border Patrol Agent to monitor 300 individual distinct IoI and their movement-tracks.

26 Section 2.0 Environmental Capabilities Needs, 2nd & 3rd paragraphs, the Threshold Acceptable Capability and Nominal Desired levels are used to describe the “lowest level environmental robustness”. Please clarify “lowest level environmental robustness” as the tables are not clear.

Answer. These Tables use the term “Threshold Acceptable Capability,” to describe the lowest level of environmental robustness compatible with deployment and operations. The entries in the Tables provide details. For example, the Threshold Acceptable Capability is described in the “Threshold Acceptable Capability” column.

27 Please define a nominal operating day? Answer. A nominal operating day is 24 hours per day (see MSCM C16).

28 Are the required levels for Threshold levels the same as documented under Conditions column?

Answer. The required levels for Threshold levels the same as documented under Conditions column.

29 Table 2-1, Naturally Occurring Operating Environment Threshold Acceptable Capability states that any degradation of performance below stated specification that occurs at the extremes of any of the environmental ranges (individually or in combination) a) Please provide a list of combinations of Environmental Factors, as this will affect testing and verification of the product?

Answer. The “Condition” column identifies the environmental factors that potentially can be present during operation and therefore potentially present during verification of the product.

30 How much time is ‘temporary’? Please expand.

Answer. Offerors are free to propose a value for “temporary” as consistent with their solution.

31 What is the minimum time for the equipment to return to full performance once it recedes from their extreme environmental condition?

Please provide an operation envelope.

Answer. Offerors are free to propose a value consistent with their solution.

32 Table 2-1, Nominal Desired Capability a) Please define a nominal operating day?

Answer. A nominal operating day is 24 hours per day (see MSCM C16).

33 Are the combinations of Environmental Factors in this column the same as those under the Threshold Acceptable?

Answer. The Threshold and Objective columns anticipate that the system will see combinations of individual environmental conditions offered by the natural environment.

34 Table 2-1, Goal Under the Goal column it states that the supplier’s product must operate in all stated CONUS operating environments.

a) Are the combinations of Environmental Factors in this column the same as those under the Threshold Acceptable?

Answer. See revised RFP.

35 Table 2-2, Stressing Naturally Occurring Operating Environment Threshold Acceptable Capability states that any degradation of performance below stated specification that occurs at the extremes of any of the environmental ranges (individually or in combination) a) What are the combinations of Environmental Factors as this will affect testing and verification of the product?

Answer. The “Condition” column identifies the environmental factors that potentially can be present during operation and therefore potentially present during verification of the product.

36 How much time is ‘temporary’? Please expand.

Answer. Offerors are free to propose a value for “temporary” as consistent with their solution.

37 What is the minimum time for the equipment to return to full performance once it recedes from their extreme environmental condition?

Please provide an operation envelope.

Answer. Offerors are free to propose “the minimum time for the equipment to return to full performance once it recedes from their extreme environmental condition” consistent with their solution.

38 Table 2-2, Nominal Desired Capability a) Please define a nominal operating day?

Answer. A nominal operating day is 24 hours per day (see MSCM C16).

39 Are the combinations of Environmental Factors in this column the same as those under the Threshold Acceptable?

Answer. The Nominal Desired Capability column and the Threshold Acceptable Capability column both anticipate that the system will see the combination of individual environmental conditions offered by the natural environment.

40 Table 2-2, Goal Under the Goal column it states that the supplier’s product must operate in all stated operating environments. a. Are the combinations of Environmental Factors in this column the same as those under the Threshold Acceptable?

Answer. The Nominal Desired Capability column and the Threshold Acceptable Capability column both anticipate that the system will see the combination of individual environmental conditions offered by the natural environment.

41 Table 2-3, Natural Survival Environment a) Please define a nominal operating day?

Answer. a.) A nominal operating day is 24 hours per day (see MSCM C16).

42 Table 2-4, Operationally Generated Environment a) Electromagnetic Compatibility, under Threshold Acceptability, please clarify what is meant by ‘minimal disruption’?

Answer. a.) Offerors are free to propose a value for “minimal disruption” that is consistent with their solution.

43 Under Nominal Desired, please clarify what is meant by ‘rare disruption’?

Answer. b.) Offerors are free to propose a value for “rare disruption” that is consistent with their solution.

44 What classes of MIL 461 will we need to test the MSC to?

Answer. c.) Offerors are free to propose a class or classes that are consistent with their solution.

45 What classes of MIL 464 will we need to test the MSC to?

Answer. d.) MIL-STD-464A is not called out on Table 2-4.

46 Please clarify exactly what “without operator intervention” means in Table 2-1 of the MSCEO. If operator intervention is a prescribed procedure via the offerors’ operations manual is that permissible?

Answer. If the operator has to leave his or her workspace, that is an example of intervention.

If the solution requires the operator to reboot the system, that is also an example of intervention. The Government cannot make a blanket assertion that a prescribed procedure in the offeror’s operation manual makes that procedure acceptable.

47 Under MSCM Section C2, please define human and vehicle target sizes for CCTV. For example, a human may be a 0.4 x 1.8 m, while a vehicle is a 1.8 x 1.5 m, if moving radially toward the Mobile Surveillance unit. This has significant impact on pixels on target �� for instance, the same vehicle moving broadside might present a 4 x 1.5 m area.

Answer. MSCM C2 requests: “Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with capability statement.” The Government is interested in the Offeror's proposal.

48 Under MSCM Section C2, please clarify the intent of, and difference between, "Residual image jitter" vs. "Image stability", which are stated as two separate parameters.

Answer. See revised MSCM, Section C2 and C3.

49 Is 45,000 feet pressure altitude for non�operating transport a hard requirement, or is there some leeway? A 40,000 foot limit would support selection of rugged LCDs from a larger set of suppliers.

Answer. See revised MSCEO Table 2-4.

50 Has the government considered gyro�stabilized camera system for the mobile surveillance vehicle? If so, would this be considered an objective exceeding the threshold?

Answer. The implementation technologies are left to the Offeror to propose.

51 Do the trucks that may be provided GFE have stabilizers on them?

Answer. The question is ambiguous as there are several potential interpretations of what is meant by “stabilizers.”

52 Is interoperability with SBInet towers an ultimate goal for MSC systems?

Answer. No.

53 Where is the Vendor Maintenance Training to be conducted?

Answer. El Paso, TX.

54 Can any more detail be provided on the GFE trucks, specifically: a. Will they all be the same body style (eg. extended cab)? b. Will they all have approximately the same wheelbase? c. Equipped with diesel or gasoline engine? d. Equipped with factory installed auxiliary fuel tank? e. Will the trucks all be new 2009 or 2010 model years?

Answer. See revised RFP.

55 Will any restrictions be imposed on the contractor regarding allowable truck modifications?

Answer. The integrated solution must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, governing motor vehicles operating on US Highways in CONUS. Modifications affecting drivability, operator safety, or any other modifications inhibiting its operations will not be accepted.

56 Will the CBP require any design reviews to verify compliance of the contractor's design prior to manufacture?

Answer. There are no design reviews required.

57 Please provide the model number for the Motorola radio to be provided as GFE. Also, please identify all ancillary equipment that are to be provided with each radio.

Answer. Below is a representative parts list of a typical standard Motorola radio package.

This is subject to GSA schedule, and therefore subject to changes beyond CBPs control.

ASTRO DIGITAL XTL5000 'O5' MOBILE RADIO

M20KTS9PW1_N XTL5000 VHF MOBILE 25-110 WATT 136-174 MHZ

G806

ENH: SOFTWARE ASTRO DIGITAL CAI

OPERATION

G48 ENH: CONVENTIONAL OPERATION

G114 ENH: ENHANCED DIGITAL ID DISPLAY

G387 ADD: CONVENTIONAL VOTING SCAN ASTRO

G159 ADD: ENCRYPTION UCM HARDWARE

G851

ADD: AES WITH DES-XL / DES-OFB

ENCRYPTION

G298 ADD: ENCRYPTION P25 AND MDC OTAR

G300 ADD: 1/4 WAVE ROOF TOP ANTENNA VHF

W12 ADD: RF PREAMPLIFIER

W432

ENH: SPEAKER - INCREASED AUDIO POWER

10W

W947 ADD: RS232 DATA INTERFACE

G655

ADD: QUICK REL REMOTE MOUNT W/KEY

LOCK

G444 ADD: CONTROL HEAD SOFTWARE, O5

G442 ADD: O5 CONTROL HEAD

W20 ADD: KEYPAD MICROPHONE

58 Warranty – how does the warranty relate to the first two (first article test) units?

Answer. See revised SOO.

59 Ref: Updated Mobile Surveillance Capabilities Matrix (MSCM), Amendment 1, pg. 8, Factor 1, Subfactor 4. The subfactor states: “The MSC provides the means to manually slew the position of motion imaging sensors as required by the operator including the ability to use the motion imaging capability as a separate detection asset.” a.) Please clarify the nature of the detection process to be employed by motion imaging as a separate detection asset— that is, during the process of manual slewing, what aspect of the motion imaging is desired to allow detection of the IoI?

Answer: See revised MSCM C4.

60 Requirement C12 stipulates an illuminator/designator, with overall metrics "consistent with capability objectives". If the illuminator is consistent with C1 ranges, this would drive using a laser illuminator with an NOHD of hundreds of meters (not eyesafe for hundreds of meters). Conversely, if eyesafe (Class 1, perhaps Class 2, laser) is taken as the driving requirement, then the illuminator must be limited, with a resulting effective operational range shorter than the distances specified in C1. Please clarify whether the laser must indeed be Class 1.

Answer. See revised MSCM C12.

61 The RFP is silent on applicability to repaired items. Should the Contractor assume that an evergreen provision applies to repaired items, meaning the bumper-to-bumper 12-month warranty clock does not restart on a unit after a repair?

Answer. See revised SOO.

62 Please clarify the configuration of the cab and chassis? Will they be extended cab or crew cab vehicles?

Answer. See revised RFP.

63 Although initial deployment will be in the southern parts of the US, the environmental spec’s call for snow, ice and freezing rain protection – do we need to incorporate that type protection in this response?

Answer. See MSCEO Table 2-2 and Section

3.0. Snow, ice and freezing rain do occur on

the Southwestern border.

64 If a truck solution is proposed are automatic and retractable stabilizer jacks allowed?

Answer. The Government does not preclude that modification by the Offeror.

65 Does the Traceability Matrix count toward the page limit?

Answer. See revised Section L of the RFP.

66 What is the definition of "quiet power mode" in terms of decibels for evening operations?

Answer. As stated in the RFP Section J MSCM, "Offeror to propose solution and metrics appropriate for their solution." The Government does not intend to establish a definition in dB, but rather has asked the offeror to propose.

67 What is the definition of "residual image jitter" and "image stability" within the Mobile Surveillance Capabilities Matrix (MSCM); Detection Factor?

Answer. The term “residual image jitter” has been deleted. With regard to "image stability," as stated in the RFP Section J MSCM we ask the "Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with capability statement."

By using the words "image" and "stability" we were intending the common English usage of those words in the context where the offeror's MSC solution presents an image to the MSC Operator. The MSC will be exposed to turbulent natural environments as described in RFP Section J MSCEO. The RFP requests "Offeror to propose parameter/metric values consistent with capability statement" by which the RFP Section J MSCM capability C2 is provided in the MSC environment.

68 What is the definition of "identification" within the MSCM; Identification Factor?

Answer. The word has previously been defined in the definitions section of the RFP Section J MSCM.

69 How hard and fast is the 60 day ARO delivery requirement? As a company who regularly procures components needed to develop an MSC capability; this requirement seems to limit competition.

Answer. Answer: This solicitation is subject to requirements under the Buy American Act.

The Buy American Act restricts the purchase of supplies, which are not domestic end products, for use within the United States.

Domestic end product is defined as:

(1) An unmanufactured end product mined or produced in the United States; or

(2) An end product manufactured in the United States, if the cost of its components mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States exceeds 50 percent of the cost of all its components.

Pursuant to FAR Subpart 25.1, CBP intends to purchase a domestic end product through this acquisition, unless an exception under FAR

25.103 applies.” We are unable to locate a Buy American Act clause in the original solicitation, and one should be added to the revised RFP (checking the appropriate box in FAR 52.212-5 is one way of doing so).

70 Do 100% of deliverables need to be completed by February 2011?

Answer. The Contracting Officer is assuming this question is related to American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Contracting Officer is not aware of a delivery requirement regarding ARRA funds.

71 Are you planning to publish the attendees list to support communication for teaming?

Answer. Yes.

72 Please explain the criteria for best value procurement and the weight of each criteria?

73 When does CBP expect to have a contract award?

Answer. The Government anticipates award by September 30, 2010.

74 What is the recovery act funding this year for

MSC?

Answer. The amount of funds associated with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the MSC procurement will not be disclosed.

75 Is there a US content requirement? If so what is it?

Answer. Answer: This solicitation is subject to requirements under the Buy American Act.

The Buy American Act restricts the purchase of supplies, which are not domestic end products, for use within the United States.

Domestic end product is defined as:

(1) An unmanufactured end product mined or produced in the United States; or

(2) An end product manufactured in the United States, if the cost of its components mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States exceeds 50 percent of the cost of all its components.

Pursuant to FAR Subpart 25.1, CBP intends to purchase a domestic end product through this acquisition, unless an exception under FAR

25.103 applies.” We are unable to locate a Buy American Act clause in the original solicitation, and one should be added to the revised RFP (checking the appropriate box in FAR 52.212-5 is one way of doing so).

76 What is the role of the lead system integration (Boeing) in this program? Can they bid to this

RFP?

Answer. Boeing's role in the SBI/SBInet program is unrelated to this procurement.

77 Will the government entertain an extension?

… Based on proposal due date (3 weeks), no FBO announcements since RFI in July, Industry Day 3 weeks before due date.

Answer. See Amendment 00003 on

FEDBIZOPPS.

78 Are you planning to have a demonstration phase as part of your selection process?

Answer. The Government does not plan to have a demonstration phase as part of the selection process.

79 Is technical more important than price, or is price more important than technical?

Answer. See revised RFP.

80 How long will it take to post answers to all questions which are due on January 15th?

Answer. This is the official posting.

81 Will the final product be classified as ITAR? Answer. CBP does not intend to seek classification of the accepted system as a ‘defense article’ under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). However, the designation or determination of specific articles as ‘defense articles’ is the responsibility of the U.S. Department of State, and CPB can make no representation as to whether the Department of State will consider any proposed system or component thereof to be subject to export controls under ITAR.

82 What is the time frame to answer questions due by the 15th?

Answer. This is the official posting.

83 If foreign parts are used in the system, is there a limit of parts that can be used?

Answer. Answer: This solicitation is subject to requirements under the Buy American Act.

The Buy American Act restricts the purchase of supplies, which are not domestic end products, for use within the United States.

Domestic end product is defined as:

(1) An unmanufactured end product mined or produced in the United States; or

(2) An end product manufactured in the United States, if the cost of its components mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States exceeds 50 percent of the cost of all its components.

Pursuant to FAR Subpart 25.1, CBP intends to purchase a domestic end product through this acquisition, unless an exception under FAR

25.103 applies.” We are unable to locate a Buy American Act clause in the original solicitation, and one should be added to the revised RFP (checking the appropriate box in FAR 52.212-5 is one way of doing so).

84 Do we need deliverables for CLIN I-9 by February 2011?

Answer. The Contracting Officer is assuming this question is related to American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Contracting Officer is not aware of a delivery requirement regarding ARRA funds.

85 Will any value be ascribed in the source selection to delivering/proposing capability/performance in excess of the defined objective requirement?

Answer. See revised RFP.

86 Understanding that this is a “Best Value” procurement, please give a general perspective on the cost versus performance trade?

Answer. See revised RFP.

87 Correct RFP numbering and eliminate FOUO from the SOO.

Answer. See revised RFP.

88 RFP Section I.12 and Section 835 of the Homeland Security Act, 6 U.S.C. 395, prohibits DHS from entering into a contract with a foreign incorporated entity. Does this mean foreign owned companies cannot prime the MSC contract? Are foreign entities allowed to be subcontractors or suppliers to US-based primes.

Answer. Foreign incorporated entities will not be considered for award if they are treated as an inverted domestic corporation under Section 835 of the Homeland Security Act, 6 U.S.C. 395, or are the subsidiary of such an entity. Other foreign incorporated entities may be eligible for award, but this acquisition is subject to a preference for domestic end products under the Buy American Act, as discussed in the answer to question 29.

89 Does DHS plan to make provisions to submit the proposal electronically in addition to the 5 hard copies and 2 CD’s? (Section L.8 pg 71)

Answer. No, provisions will not be made to submit proposals electronically.

90 Is there a CDRL or template for the Contract Performance Management Plan? (Section L.9

pg. 78)

Answer. See Revised RFP.

91 The solicitation requires the supplier to quote Basic Maintenance Service (SOO pg. 14 par.

5.2.5.3) as well as Quick Turnaround Maintenance (SOO pg 15 par. 5.2.5.4). These individual prices will not be visible to the evaluation team as there is only a single maintenance CLIN. Should insight into these separate prices be given in the cost volume?

92 Please clarify that the initial spares intended to support 15 systems are to be quoted in CLIN 0007. The title of the paragraph has a parenthetical note “(Option)”. (SOO pg. 15 par. 5.2.5.5)

Answer. See revised RFP.

93 How is the cost of travel required to provide vendor technical support to be proposed (ie cost reimbursable?) and against which CLIN?

Should suppliers assume support would be required/desired in all 5 of the program’s years? (SOO pg. 15 par. 5.2.6.)

Answer. See revised RFP SOO CLIN 0014.

94 The first paragraph in section L.8 describes the 2 volumes that the proposal is to be prepared/submitted in. Following the second paragraph in section L.8 the text reads, in part, “This volume shall consist of….” and goes on to describe the Transmittal Letter (Section 1), Executive Summary and TOC’s (Section 2) and PWS (Section 3). Please clarify which proposal volume these three sections are to be documented in. The detailed instruction for Volume 1 (Part 1) on pg. 72 only refers to the Executive Summary but not the Transmittal Letter or the PWS. (Section L.8 pg 71 and 72)

Answer: See revised RFP.

95 Please clarify the reference to a “SOW” was intended to say “PWS”. (SOO pg 79 par.

L.9(D))

Answer. See revised SOO.

96 What is the evaluation weighting applied to the threshold performance levels verses desired performance levels of compliance?

Answer. See revised RFP.

97 The time deadline for submittal of the proposal is inconsistent. In FedBizOps notice it is listed as 5:00pm eastern, but in Block 8 of SF1449 it is listed as 12:00 local. Please clarify.

Answer. See Amendment 00003 on

FEDBIZOPPS.

98 In SOO, page 11, Article 5.2.3.4 it states vendor shall grant the Government rights consistent with FAR 52.227-14. Please clarify if the Government seeks unlimited rights or if the Government will accept limited or restricted rights?

Answer. The Government is seeking limited rights.

99 In which proposal volume should the Contractor provide its Certs & Reps, Past Performance, any clarifications or assumptions and how is this information calculated in a page limitation?

Answer. See revised RFP.

100 At Article I.5 FAR 52.219-8 “Utilization of Small Business Concerns” is invoked, but not FAR 52.219-9 “Small Business Subcontracting Plan”. Is a small business plan required?

Answer. Yes, see revised RFP.

101 On page 73 “Instructions for Volume II: Price Proposal”, the Contractor is requested to indicate “profit rate”. If this procurement is competitive, why is the Contractor requested to provide anything other than just the total sell price of the goods offered? (ie. Fee rate and Financial capability on pg 76)

Answer. See revised RFP.

102 In part 1 section B CLIN 0007 is described to be “Unit Spares” and CLIN 0008 is described to be Schematic Drawings”. On page 78, par.

L.8 in the SOO CLIN 0007 is described to be “Schematic drawings” and CLIN 0008 is described to be “Unit spares”. Please correctly correlate those CLIN numbers to their respective description(s).

Answer. See revised RFP.

103 In part 1 section B CLIN 0009 is described to be “Over & Above (Incidentals)” On page 74, par. L.8 in the SOO CLIN 0009 is described to be “Unit Operation & Availability” Please correctly correlate this CLIN description and if the description is “Unit Operation & Availability”, please clarify what the CLIN means.

Answer. See revised RFP.

104 Since this solicitation is a follow-on procurement to the 34 systems (referenced in SOO paragraph 4.0), please describe the role, if any, that either Boeing and/or the FAA will play in managing, providing resources, facilities etc to the MSC logistics program.

(SOO pg.10 par. 5.2)

Answer, The requirement is not a follow-on to the systems currently owned. Neither Boeing nor the FAA have a role in this procurement.

105 Several deliverables make reference to CDRL’s (CDRL’s 0001-0009) yet there is no CDRL or DID attached to the solicitation.

Will a CDRL and DID’s be provided? If not, please confirm that all deliverable data is in contractor’s format. (SOO section 5.2)

Answer. See revised RFP.

106 To whom, and when are the 12 hardcopy and 2 electronic copy of the O&M Manuals delivered? Please clarify the 2 soft copies via “electronic media” to the program office (SOO pg.11 par 5.2.3)

Answer. See revised SOO.

107 There is no CDRL for the Vendor Quality Management Plan. Please confirm it is to be submitted in vendor’s format. When is it due?

(SOO pg. 16 par. 5.3.1)

Answer. The requirement was deleted in the revised SOO.

108 It appears the description of CLINS 0007�0009 in Part I of the RFP document is different than the description in Section L.8.

Please clarify.

Answer. See revised RFP.

109 The instructions for Volume II regarding Table 1 (Total Price Summary) and the format shown are unclear. There are nine CLINS for the base year and four for the Option yearsand the CLINS 1�4 are not the same between the base and option years. Given this, we’re not sure how to present total values per CLIN. Please Clarify

Answer. See revised RFP.

110 We are unclear about the data to be shown in Volume II Table 2. We believe that the purpose of the table is show unit prices at various quantities during each time period, but there is a Total Column at the end of the table.

Answer. See revised RFP.

111 Would the customer consider extending the solicitation response date to 28 Feb 2010?

Answer. See Amendment 00003 on

FEDBIZOPPS.

112 Section L.8 refers to the Technical Volume having three sections, one of which is the Performance Work Statement (PWS). On page 72 under Instructions for Volume I (Part I) Technical Proposal, it does not refer to the PWS. Please, kindly clarify if the PWS is to be included in Volume I (Part I) or is it to be submitted as a separate Volume?

113 The Past Performance Volume is referred to on page 77 and in Section M.4. Please, kindly clarify if the Past Performance Volume is to be included in Volume 1 (Part I) or is it to be submitted as a separate Volume?

Answer. See revised RFP.

114 Will or can the Government provide the "Mobile Surveillance Capabilities Matrix" (MSCM) in editable Microsoft Word format?

Current released version is Revision 1.6 dated 9 December 2009.

Answer. Yes; see revised MSCM.

115 Will the government allow contractor personnel to visit the Tucson facility to review a currently deployed MSC system?

Answer. No, there is no currently deployed MSC system.

116 Would you forward the White Paper, we would be appreciative?

Answer. The Government is not aware of a relevant White Paper.

117 The RFP section K.5, is explicit in excluding Safety Act Coverage. Will the Government consider revisiting the applicability of the Safety Act in the event the overall use of the product and services are involved in a terrorism setting?

Answer. FAR 52.250-2, incorporated into the RFP at section K.5, is intended to communicate that no block certification or block designation will be made under the SAFETY Act in connection with this procurement, and proposals may not be made contingent on SAFETY Act coverage. This does not preclude offerors from applying for SAFETY Act designation or certification separately from this procurement. Whether to seek the benefits of the SAFETY Act for a proposed product or service is entirely up to the offeror.

118 What is the proposed delivery schedule for the follow-on units (after the first 2 units) in the first award period?

119 After attending the MSC Industry Day our understanding is that CBP wishes to procure a non-developmental solution for the MSC Program. It was also stated that innovative solutions addressing the mandatory and desirable parameters provided in the Mobile Surveillance Capabilities Matrix are the intent of this new procurement. However, generation of a proposal which adequately incorporates these new capabilities into a fully integrated and environmentally compliant offering is much more than a three week endeavor.

Consequently, we kindly request a 30 day extension on the due date for proposals.

Answer. See Amendment 00003 on

FEDBIZOPPS.

120 Section L, Option Pricing – for each CLIN XX01, the description reads ‘Step Pricing Units’. However, Section B identifies 18 as the quantity. Should we just price 18 or steps that lead to 18?

Answer. See revised RFP.

121 GFE – if the bidder requests GFE trucks as part of his solution, does that affect the bidders’ evaluated price?

Answer. The Government is reviewing this question and will provide an answer in the future.

122 Section I includes the FAR Clause 52.232-29.

Is the bidder allowed to propose financing terms?

Answer. Yes.

123 Section L, Tables 1 – 3 – please provide an example of completed Tables 1 – 3 using mock pricing. While Table 1 seems straight forward, Tables 2 and 3 do not.

Answer. See revised RFP.

124 Section L, Financial Capability – please provide the definition for subcontractor as used in this paragraph.

Answer. Any supplier, distributor, vendor, or firm that furnishes supplies or services to or for a prime contractor or another subcontractor.

125 We note that you hosted an Industry Day for MSC. Would it be possible to get an attendance list for the Industry Day?

Answer. Yes. It is posted on FEDBIZOPPS.

126 Ref: MSC SOO, Section L, page 78. The solicitation states: "Offerors should submit a draft CPMP as part of their initial proposal."Does the CPMP count toward the page limit?

Answer. This requirement has been deleted, see revised RFP.

127 How does the Government prefer to see the draft CPMP included in the proposal—that is, as a section versus the outline provided on pg.

72, as an attachment, etc.?

Answer. This requirement has been deleted, see revised RFP.

128 Ref: MSC SOO, Section L, page 79. The solicitation states: "The offeror should submit a detailed Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) to a minimum of three descending levels of detail (to include an overarching/top level, a secondary level and any subservient underlying level or levels of detail), covering all transition task activities, and the ongoing operations of contract requirements. This WBS shall map to the offeror’s SOW. With the WBS, the offeror shall include a Traceability Matrix that maps the SOW and the WBS directly to the SOO."

Answer. This requirement has been deleted, see revised RFP.

129 Does the WBS count toward the page limit? Answer. This requirement has been deleted, see revised RFP.

130 How does the Government prefer to see the WBS included in the proposal?

Answer. This requirement has been deleted, see revised RFP.

131 When will a decision be made in regards to an extension for the RFP response?

Answer. See Amendment 00003 on

FEDBIZOPPS.

132 How does the Government prefer to see the Traceability Matrix included in the proposal?

Answer. See revised Section L of the RFP.

133 How many sites will be supported in the base year?

Answer. See revised SOO.

134 What types of data/evidence does the Government desire/envision for substantiation of commerciality and technical maturity levels?

Answer. Please see updated RFP section M.4.

135 Do Offerors have the opportunity to make product changes over the course of the 5 year program?

Answer. The Government is reviewing this question and will provide an answer in the future.

136 How many sites are required for Level 2 maintenance?

Answer. See revised SOO.

137 Does CBP plan to deploy more MSC’s to the Northern Border?

Answer. This procurement is for the Southwest border.

138 Is there a CDRL or template for the Performance Work Statement? What section in volume 1 or 2 does the PWS go in? (SOO

pg. 9 par 2.1)?

Answer. The Performance Work Statement (PWS) is not a CDRL, but a separate document submitted with the proposal. See revised SOO. The offeror’s format is acceptable.

139 What system quantity should the spares quoted in CLIN’s 1004 – 4004 be based on? 18? 50?

Or some other quantity? (Part 1 section B Schedule of Supplies/Services)

Answer: See revised SOO.

140 In the SOO, page 14, Article 5.2.5.2, please further clarify the intent or meaning of a “bumper to bumper” warranty. Warranty is defined at Article I.13 FAR 52.246-17. Which clause takes precedent and can the Contractor propose its “standard” commercial warranty as an alternative?`

Answer. See revised SOO.

141 In the CLIN descriptions beginning on page 73 in section L.8 of the SOO, please explain what “methodology” is expected to be provided by the offeror.

Answer. See revised RFP.

142 In part 1 section B, please clarify what “Requirements for the base year will be determined at time of Award (Check with PM office on what’s in ILSP)”. Are offerors to quote the requirements defined in SOO 5.2.5.3.

Answer. See revised RFP.

143 Please quantify how the evaluation criteria are weighted between factors, sub factors and sub factors.

Answer. Weights will not be disclosed.

144 How will the evaluation team assess offerors claims of meeting threshold and desired performance requirements prior to making an award(s).

Answer. The Government will evaluate by reading the proposal.

145 Please clarify why Table-1 in section L.8 of the SOO has a column entitled “Option(s) Amount”. The CLIN’s in table 1 are base year CLINS and Table-3 appears to cover the option year prices for the 16 option year CLIN’s.

Answer. See revised RFP.

146 Please clarify why in section L.8 Table–2 there is a last column entitled “Total Proposed (Base Plus Options)” since this table represents ranges of quantities and associated price

Answer. See revised Section M of the RFP.

breaks.

147 Will the maintenance training be given to all 5 individuals in a single class? Please specify the location of the class. (SOO pg. 11 par 5.2.2)

Answer. See revised SOO.

148 The O&M manual refers only to level 1 maintenance. Shouldn’t level 2 maintenance also be included? (SOO pg 11 par 5.2.3.1)

Answer. See revised SOO.

149 Please clarify the content of the manuals described in SOO pg.11 par. 5.2.3.3. Since these assets will likely be depot (OEM factory) repairable, it is assumed the manual content is for users only. (not maintainers)

Answer. The Government’s intent is to receive component manuals for the major components of the system (e.g. IR camera, day camera, radar, generator, etc.) customarily available to a commercial buyer. The manuals may be used by users or maintainers.

150 Please explain what “Supplier to procure as GFE…” means. (SOO pg.15 par 5.2.5.5(1)

Answer. See the revised SOO.

151 Please clarify that the “equipment” referenced in par. 5.2.5.5 of the SOO refers to the spares and that the cost of shipping said spares from the 9 sector locations where they will “be stored onsite” to the “single location” where all 15 systems will be serviced will not be the responsibility of the supplier.(SOO pg. 15 par.

5.2.5.5(2).

Answer. See the revised SOO.

152 Please clarify how many sites the offerors need to facilitize to provide level 2 base year maintenance support. The level 2 definitions in SOO par. 5.2.5.1 describe 9 sector locations.

SOO par 5.2.5.3 reiterates 9 location by making reference to par. 5.2.5.1., however SOO par. 5.2.5.5(3) states “…..priced based on an assumed supported MSC population of 15 units serviced at a single site.” The description of CLIN 6 on the last page of section M states “Maintenance requirements for the base year will be determined at time of award”. What is the specific scope of work, locations and system quantities per location that offerors should be quoting ?

Answer. See the revised SOO.

153 Will the FAT’s occurring in Tucson and Yuma happen concurrently, in series or be scheduled independently? How these events are scheduled will determine the supplier’s cost to support it. (SOO pg. 16 par. 5.3.2.2)

Answer. See revised SOO. The units will be tested concurrently.

154 Please provide the locations that the 13 Unit Acceptance Tests will be performed so support can be estimated. (SOO pg. 16 par. 5.3.2.3)

Answer. All Unit Acceptance Tests will take place in El Paso, TX.

155 Will suppliers be required to support UAT for systems delivered against option CLIN’s? If so, what quantity will suppliers be required to support and at what location(s)? (SOO pg. 16 par. 5.3.2.3)

Answer. Yes. See revised RFP SOO.

156 Please specify the destination of the base 13 systems so that the cost of freight to FOB destination can be estimated. (Section F pg. 20 par. F.1 & Section L.7 pg. 71)

Answer. El Paso, TX.

157 In Section L.8 of the RFP, the Technical Volume is described as having three “Parts” (Technical Proposal, Cross Reference to MSCM, and Cross Reference to the MSCEO).

Another part of Section L.8 describes the Technical Volume as having three “Sections” (Transmittal Letter, Executive Summary and PWS). Please clarify what the required components of the Technical Volume are.

Answer. See revised RFP.

158 To accommodate the lead time of higher end sensor products, would the customer consider extending the First Article delivery period to 120 days?

159 As a company that designs, develops and integrates border security systems and architectures domestically and abroad, we must tell you that several of the commodities necessary to develop an effective MSC system have significantly longer lead times than the 60 day development schedule for 2 MSC test units allows. The only company that could do this is a company that already has an existing system developed and operational, which seems directly counter to a fully competitive and open competition for the MSC program.

We suggest an extension of the delivery of the initial test units to 150 days.

Answer. See revised RFP.

160 Per paragraph 3 of the Operation Description," once the MSC system has been defined modifications to the current training modules will be conducted." "...the training model includes web-based and OJT training ..." Is a web-based, interactive training update package desired by the customer? If so, is this in addition to instructor-led, onsite training?

Answer. See revised SOO.

161 Per paragraph 4 of the Operational Description, "MSC systems' maintenance will transition through a phased approach from vendor-provided to Border Patrol organic maintenance support...". This seems to contradict what the RFP calls for. Specifically, are CBP personnel to perform levels 1 and 2 maintenance and the vendor only performs level 3 Depot? The RFP seems to be asking for vendor supported/ provided maintenance for levels 2 and 3 maintenance support.

Answer. See revised SOO.

162 How soon after contract award will the GFE equipment be provided to the contractor?

Answer. The Government anticipates delivery of GFE vehicles in 90 days. The Government anticipates delivery of GFE land mobile radios in 30 days. Both subject to availability.

163 What is the timeframe that CBP estimates intends to make an award decision?

Answer. The Government anticipates award by September 30, 2010.