HTC711-13-R-R016_Questions Answers_3rd_Round.pdf

Date

Received RFP Page # RFP Para # Question Comment Category US Government Response

1 9-Sep-13 38 52.212-1(1)

Are you requiring companies to be CARB certified at time of proposal submission or time of award for the AFRICOM Dedicated Fixed Wing requirement? CARB Approval

In accordance with (IAW) 52.212-1(1) "Pursuant to DoDI 4500.53, to be eligible to receive a contract award, the offeror must be an approved Department of Defense (DOD) air carrier as determined by HQ AMC/A3B and the Commercial Airlift Review Board (CARB) at time of proposal submission for the aircraft type proposed under this Solicitation."

2 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Is there a breakdown available of where current contractor personnel are located in support of this contract throughout the AOR? Personnel Contractor personnel are located in Entebbe, Uganda.

3 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A Is there any baggage scanning equipment available in Entebbe or any of the outstations? Equipment No.

4 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A Is there a list of any equipment that will be left in place from the previous contract holder? Equipment No.

5 9-Sep-13 3 SF 1449 When is the contract award date scheduled? Award Date

26 November 2013. This date was added to Technical Subfactor 5 - Operational Date in

Addendums 52.212-1 & 52.212-2 via Amendment 0002.

6 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Will there be a site survey of the facilities and outstations in the AOR prior to or after the award date? Site Survey

The acquisition office does not have the authority to grant/facilitate offeror site visits, however, does not object to arrangement made directly by bidders.

7 9-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pgs 5 & 7

Attch 1 - PWS paras 1.3.2, 1.3.3, 1.3.5, 1.9.3

Is there a training requirement from the Govt. to be maintained by the Contractor for key

Contractor personnel? (Pilots, Medical, etc.) If so, when will those requirements be made available? Training

Yes, there are multiple training requirements listed in Attachment 1 - Performance Work

Statement (PWS). IAW PWS Para 1.3.2. "Aircrew members shall be trained, qualified, and maintain proficiency in accordance with FAR 135, and 32 CFR 861." IAW PWS Para

1.3.3. "Aircraft maintenance personnel shall be trained, qualified, and maintain proficiency in accordance with FAR 135. IAW PWS Para 1.3.5. Training, "Contract employees will be afforded the opportunity to attend code of Conduct training IAW

DoDD 1300.7 dated 8 Dec 2000." IAW PWS Para 1.9.3. "Aircrew shall be air drop qualified in accordance with the contractor’s training program as approved by the FAA."

8 9-Sep-13 40 & 43

52.212-1 (II)

Part I -

Technical (e) &

52.212-2 (a) (1)

Part I -

Technical (v) After award, is the Contractor expected to be FMC on 28 Dec 13? Award Date

Yes, IAW 52.212-1 (II) Part I - Technical (e) Operational Date, the offeror must "submit confirmation two aircraft will be operational and ready to conduct missions in Africa on

28 December 2013." IAW 52.212-2 (a) (1) Part I - Technical (v) Technical Subfactor 5 -

Operational Date, "To be rated acceptable the offeror must submit confirmation two aircraft will be operational and ready to conduct missions in Africa on 28 December

2013."

9 9-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 5 1.5.2 Which areas will be provided security by PNF or USF? Security

United States Special Operations Forces (USSOF) provides security at each outstation.

AFRICOM COUNTER LRA COMMAND ELEMENT (ACCE) policies set security postures at

Entebbe.

10 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Is there an APO available for mail? If not, what is the plan for sending and receiving mail for contractors? Assets Yes. Mail is sent and received through the Embassy in Kampala, Uganda.

11 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A Is there a list of OFF LIMITS AREAS in Entebbe? Security

Yes. The current off limit locations are in Entebbe. They are The Trap, The Bellagio, and

The Four Turkeys.

12 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Is there a DFAC (dining facility) available for contractors to use in Entebbe or any of the outstations? Assets

No. US personnel are allowed to shop and dine on the economy in Entebbe or utilize a subcontractor at the outstations, if necessary.

13 9-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 2 1.1.3

Is there past performance history available of the types of flights conducted and their frequency? (Day, Night, NVG, Airborne Ops, Waterborne Ops, etc) Historical Data

This information is not releasable. IAW Attach 1 - PWS para 1.1.3 "The Government anticipates contracting approximately 225 hours between two aircraft for 24 days per month and allows 6 days per month for scheduled/unscheduled maintenance."

14 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A Is there a list available of assets and or services available at each outstation in the AOR? Assets Please clarify and provide examples of "assets" and "services".

15 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A

With reference to subject solicitation, we hold interest in offering services as to meet the requirement and inquire as to whether our firm must be registered on a specific schedule in order to qualify for consideration by USTRANSCOM. If so, please advise which schedule we must be registered on and we shall apply expeditiously. General No, there is not a schedule.

16 9-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 5 1.3.1 Are Mechanics, Avionics and ALSE Techs required to have a SECRET clearance? Personnel

No. IAW PWS Para 1.3.1 "Some aircrew and site managers performing under this contract are required to possess a Secret security clearance unless otherwise waived on a case-by-case basis."

17 9-Sep-13 N/A N/A AMRs (Air Mission Requests) will come directly from the JSOAD, ACCE or whom? Missions Air Support Requests (ASR's) come directly from the ACCE.

18 11-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Since contractors cannot be armed for this contract. Are we allowed to subcontract force protection services for those areas that will not be provided security? i.e. living quarters, transportation. Security

The Government provides security at each outstation and at Entebbe. United States

Special Operations Forces (USSOF) provides security at each outstation. AFRICOM

COUNTER LRA COMMAND ELEMENT (ACCE) policies set security postures at Entebbe.

19 11-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 3 1.1.6

Please clarify the 1800’ minimum runway requirements to assist in Part 135 planning. Should we use Obo’s field elevation of 2,000’ MSL with a standard temperature of 25 degrees C.?

Aircraft

Requirements

Yes. See Amendment 0003 to the Solicitation which adds "contractor should use 2,000'

MSL with a standard temperature of 25 degrees C for planning purposes" to Attach 1 -

PWS para 1.1.6.

20 11-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 3 & 7 1.2.1 & 1.8

If the aircraft can fit a substantial amount of cargo in the baggage compartment, is Combi required?

Aircraft

Requirements

Passenger and Cargo Combination (COMBI) Service is required IAW PWS paras 1.2.1 and

PWS section 1.8.

21 11-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 10 4.2.5

In accordance with PWS section 4.2.5, the government requires the vendor to have a SECRET facility security clearance prior to award. Will the government allow the vendor to receive the facility clearance after award and before the period of performance begins? Clearance

No. IAW PWS para 4.2.5 "FCLs and Interim FCLs must be awarded by the Defense

Security Service (DSS) prior to proposal submission."

22 11-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 12 4.5.1

Please clarify section 4.5.1, Secure Communications requirement. What type of equipment and standard must be met?

Aircraft

Requirements See Amendment 0003 which removes PWS para 4.5.1.

23 11-Sep-13 N/A N/A Is fuel available at all government directed destinations? Fuel

Aviation Gas (AVGAS) is available via fuel trucks at Entebbe, Uganda and Dungu, DRC.

See Amendment 0003 to the Solicitation which adds the statement "The contractor is responsible for making arrangements for fuel at all locations" to PWS para 1.1.2.

24 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 3 1.1.12

We understand the contractor is responsible for country flight clearances and landing clearances but are agreements in place between USG and the operating countries such that contractors will be allowed to operate without gaining host nation Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approval - possibly through status of forces agreements? Clearances

There is a standing blanket clearance agreement within the four countries that states aircraft operating in support of Operation Observant Compass (OOC) are allowed into country. This agreement is worked with individual countries and includes aircraft information.

25 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 3 1.1.6

We have many of the airfield surveys normally used in support of missions in this area and all are longer than 1,800 ft in length. Please provide airfield surveys for the airfields that are 1,800 ft in length so that we can determine proper support with proposed aircraft. Airfield Airfield surveys are not releasable.

26 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 2 1.1.1

The PWS states, “Aircraft shall be available for services 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.”

Does the government intend to conduct night operations?

Aircraft

Requirements Yes.

27 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 2 1.1.1

The PWS states, “Aircraft shall be available for services 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.”

Will the government schedule one task per day per aircraft, or will the operator be required to maintain crewing for 24/7 availability?

Aircraft

Requirements

The Government may task one plane for one or more tasks per day depending on mission requirements. IAW Attch 1 - PWS para 1.1.1 "missions will be scheduled at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance, unless otherwise agreed to by the contractor and

COR." Therefore, contractor will be able to schedule crews appropriately. Additionally, IAW PWS para 4.5.1 "Crew duty day requirements are governed by Federal Aviation

Regulation Part 135 or applicable CAA regulations."

28 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 5 1.3.1

Will the government please verify, which flight crew members require secret level security clearances? Personnel

See Amendment 0003 to the Solicitation which requires "all aircrew and site managers performing under this contract" to possess a Secret security clearance unless otherwise waived on a case-by-case basis in Attach 1 - PWS para 1.3.1.

29 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 5 1.3.6 Will the government provide DBA as a reimbursable cost? DBA No. DBA Insurance should be bid into the contractor's fixed operation costs.

30 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 5 1.5.2

USTRANSCOM is currently soliciting for Rotary wing service in the same region. Will support materials and personnel be authorized on these aircraft on a space available basis? General

The Government may task the fixed wing aircraft to bring support materials, etc out to

Obo, CAR, however, these missions are at the Government's discretion.

31 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9.3

The PWS states, “The contractor shall have the necessary Operations Specifications to perform air drop services at varying altitudes.” Will the government please clarify what varying altitudes means? Air Drop

Previously air drops have typically been accomplished between 100' and 500', however, altitude depends on the specific mission and is not limited to these altitudes.

32 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9.4

The PWS states, “Air drop services are anticipated to be used sparingly throughout contract performance.” Will the government please further clarify the frequency of air drops for staff planning purposes? Air Drop The mission is too dynamic to clarify frequency and it depends on the operations.

33 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9.4 Will the government require both aircraft to provide airdrop services simultaneously? Air Drop

Typically air drops are performed with one aircraft, however a requirement for simultaneous airdrop missions cannot be ruled out.

34 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 8 3.2

The government indicates they will reimburse the contractor for airport fees to include landing and parking fees, eurocontrol fees, and overflight fees. Does this include the parking and associated fees at the base location? Reimbursables

Yes. IAW PWS para 3.2, "The Government will reimburse the Contractor, at cost, for all airport fees assessed as a result of authorized performance under this contract."

35 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 8 3.6

Fuel quality in the region is not always up to DoD standards, meaning contractors must perform thorough testing to ensure fuel quality. Further, fuel logistics is an extremely difficult part of operating in these environments. In order to ensure flight schedules are not interrupted due to fuel constraints, will the government require contractors to provide their own prepositioned fuel depots at the forward operating locations? Fuel

The Government cannot predetermine how much fuel the contractor will need for operations, therefore, ensuring sufficient fuel is available at the outstations is the contractor's responsibility.

36 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 12 4.5.1

The PWS states, “When operating missions, the contractor’s operations center will be required to maintain secure voice communications.” Does this mean in the aircraft to ground forces?

From the operations center in Entebbe to the aircraft? Will the government please further define this requirement.

Aircraft

Requirements See Amendment 0003 which removes PWS para 4.5.1.

37 16-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 12 4.5.1

Will the government provide access to secure communication equipment at the operations center to allow contractor to communicate with secure communication equipment installed in aircraft?

Aircraft

Requirements See Amendment 0003 which removes PWS para 4.5.1.

38 16-Sep-13 30 252.225-7040

The government offers a Web-based source for deployment preparation. Will USTRANSCOM please clarify the access point and availability of this training source? Clause

Please refer to the AFRICOM website (http://www.africom.mil/staff-resources/travel-to-africa) for further information on training contractor personnel deploying to Africa.

Additionally, the State Department website (http://www.state.gov/) is another source for information on travel to Africa.

39 16-Sep-13 38-39

52.212-1

Paragraph

(b)(1) & (4)

In which section of the proposal should offerors include the following items?:

• CARB Certificate (52.212-1&2 Addendum, Paragraph(b)(1))

• Company contact info/ SCAC (52.212-1&2 Addendum, Paragraph(b)(3)(iv))

• CAGE Code, DUNS code, and size standard (52.212-1&2 Addendum, Paragraph(b)(4)(iv))

• Authorized individuals (52.212-1&2 Addendum, Paragraph(b)(4)(v))

• Online Reps and Certs (52.212-1&2 Addendum, Paragraph(b)(4)(vi))

• DD254 52.212-1&2 Addendum, Paragraph(b)(4)(vii)) 52.212-1

The items listed are considered "General Compliance" and shall be submitted as part of the offeror's overall proposal. The items listed do not need to be submitted under Parts

I - IV of the offeror's proposal.

40 16-Sep-13 31 252.225-7040

Where will this Joint Reception Center (JRC) be and is there an estimated timeline for an individual to “in-process” before they can begin work? Will these be required upon entry for every rotation? Clause

Information regarding the Joint Reception Center (JRC) will be provided at a later date, however, the contractors will be required to in-process at Entebbe with the ACCE. This is generally accomplished in one day, however, for crew rotations should take less time.

Additionally, Please refer to the AFRICOM website (http://www.africom.mil/staff-resources/travel-to-africa) for information on deploying contractor personnel to Africa.

Additionally, the State Department website (http://www.state.gov/) is another source for information on travel to Africa.

41 16-Sep-13 28 252.225-7040

Will the government please provide a list of the Government Furnished Services to be authorized on the SPOT LOAs for personnel assigned to this contract? Clause

The Government will issue Letters of Authorization (LOAs) via the Synchronized

Predeployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT), however, no Government Furnished

Services are authorized under this contract.

42 19-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 12 4.5.1 Will secure HF radio (in addition to VHF and UHF) suffice? Or is SATCOM required?

Aircraft

Requirements See Amendment 0003 which removes PWS para 4.5.1.

43 24-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9.1

Will the Government clarify the minimum requirements of the door bundle dimensions are length: 36 inches, width: 30 inches, height: 47 inches?

Aircraft

Requirements

Amendment 0003 changed the maximum door bundle dimensions to length: 48 inches, width: 48 inches, height: 48 inches in Attachment 1 - PWS para 1.9.1.

44 24-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9.1

Since air drop services are anticipated to be used sparingly throughout contract performance and the cargo for air drop services can be loaded and delivered in smaller bundles than the specified maximum requirements, will the Government allow an Offeror to propose an aircraft based the original door bundle dimensions of length: 36 inches, width: 30 inches, height: 47 inches?

Aircraft

Requirements

No, the contractor must be able to support the maximum door bundle dimensions based on PWS para 1.9.1.

45 25-Sep-13 9 52.212-2

The evaluation criteria states that the Government will assign Past Performance Confidence

Assessment ratings after determining recency and relevancy of each past performance effort.

How will the Government assign a confidence rating? Is there specific criteria that will be measured and a specific methodology used to determine the Confidence Assessment rating?

Is this a mathematical scoring system or is it subjective based upon the opinions of the evaluation team? 52.212-2

The Government will assign one of the Past Performance Confidence Assessment Ratings listed in the chart under Part II - Past Performance in Addendum 52.212-2. This will be a subjective evaluation of the Government's confidence in the offeror's ability to successfully perform the requirements of the Solicitation based on the offeror's recent past performance efforts.

46 25-Sep-13 5 52.212-1

The requirement states, “Provide any other relative supporting documentation or explanation clearly demonstrating how the capabilities of the proposed aircraft can meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the PWS”. Please provide the specific Sections of the PWS that this is referring to. Paragraph 1.2, “Aircraft Requirements” are already being evaluated (a)

Technical Approach. 52.212-1

Addendum 52.212-1 (II) (a) requires the offeror to describe their technical approach and

(b) requires the offeror to provide information about the proposed aircaft's technical capability. "Provide any other relative supporting documentation or explanation clearly demonstrating how the capabilities of the proposed aircraft can meet or exceed the minimum requirements of the PWS" gives the offeror an opportunity to provide any other technical data not already submitted in any other portion of their proposal.

47 25-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 6 1.6.7

The PWS States, “The government will provide manpower to load and unload cargo from the aircraft…” Will the government clarify if there are forklifts available at the out stations? If not, will the government require an aircraft will a rear ramp to ensure the ability for personnel to easily load/off-load bulky/heavy cargo items like generators?

Aircraft

Requirements

There are no forklifts at the outstations. USSOF manually load/unload the aircraft. The

Government's requirement remains unchanged and a rear ramp is not required.

48 25-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 6 1.6.7

An aircraft with a side door is frequently much taller and harder to off load in remote locations by hand, where a rear ramp can be lowered to ground level for loading. Moving something like an ATV in and out of a side cargo door would be extremely difficult, where an aircraft with a rear ramp could quickly load and unload at any location. With the government require a contractor to provide an aircraft with a rear ramp?

Aircraft

Requirements

The Government's requirement remains unchanged. Bidders are not restricted from bidding an aircraft with a rear ramp.

49 25-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 6 1.6.7

We understand the current contract aircraft are required to move bulky items like with dimensions as big as 70”W x 62”H other assets in the region are not capable of carrying? Will the government ever require the contractor to transport loads with these dimensions?

Aircraft

Requirements

Due to the dynamic role of the mission, the Government cannot define specific cargo specs for movement. If something is too large to move by aircraft, then it can be moved via vehicle line haul.

50 25-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 11 4.2.11

As we are not physically assigned at USTRANSCOM; what are the security training requirements envisioned by “our respective Government security office” for this PWS? Security

AFRICOM does not currently have any specific security training requirements for contractors.

51 25-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 9 4.2.1

“The majority of daily work associated with this PWS is at the unclassified level...” Will we be given a copy of classification guidance for this PWS, so that we understand what aspects are classified, and which are not; in order to insure we comply with USG obligations for the safeguard of classified information – while still allowing our organization to communicate internally at the unclassified level, as might be necessary? Security

At this time, the Government cannot release what information is/is not classified due to

OPSEC concerns.

52 25-Sep-13 27

252.220-7040

(4) (c)

Combatant Commander’s security plan “for the protection of Contractor personnel in locations where there is not sufficient or legitimate civil authority” –assuming this would not apply to

Entebbe; but does this/will this apply to Obo and Nzara? Or will those locations not be part of this PWS. Clause USSOF will provide security at all locations.

53 25-Sep-13

Attach 1 - PWS pg 3 1.1.6

The latest revision of the PWS states, “The contractor will be asked to routinely take off/land on improved and unimproved dirt airfields of a minimum of 1800 feet in length to support resupply and personnel transportation requirements. Airfields like Obo, (ICAO FEFB) and

Djema, Central African Republic are considered routine locations. “ Obo-Poste (FEFB) was closed by the CAR Civil Air Authority when Obo-Mission was opened in the 1980’s. Further, Obo-Poste is obstructed by other activities and is accessible only by rotary wing. Obo-Mission is the shortest runway utilized by fixed wing on the current contract and is 2,447 feet in length.

Will the government please confirm, they do not intend to utilize the closed Obo-Poste, and therefore require a minimum runway length no less than 2,447 feet, at 2,000‘ MSL and 25 degrees C?

Aircraft

Requirements

See Amendment 0004 which changes the runway length in PWS paragraph 1.1.6 to 2,400 ft for planning purposes, however, still requires the contractor to take off/land on improved and unimproved dirt airfields of a minimum of 1800 feet in length.

54 25-Sep-13

Questions &

Answers previously posted Question 24

Is there a SOFA agreement or a similar agreement the government can release to the bidders for logistical planning purposes? Clearances A SOFA is not available.

55 25-Sep-13

Questions &

Answers previously posted Question 18

Will the government confirm, USSOF will provide security for all fuel depots at the outstations?

What is the extent of the security to be provided? Petty theft is common at these locations without the presence of 24 hour security. Security The Contractor is required to secure their own fuel.

56 25-Sep-13

Questions &

Answers previously posted

Question 10 &

The US Embassy in Kampala has indicated APO services are typically reserved for US Military and US Embassy personnel only. Further, in question 41, the government indicates no services will be included on LOAs for this contract meaning contractor will not have access to the use of

APO. Will the Government confirm whether APO is available for commercial shipping through local customs offices is to be utilized? Services

APO is not available for commercial shipping. Offerors may utilize commercial shipping providers (i.e. DHL) at their own expense.

57 25-Sep-13

Questions &

Answers previously posted Question 18

The government indicates the ACCE sets the security posture in Entebbe. To what extent does the ACCE provide security at the contractors accommodations located in Entebbe? The US

Embassy recommends electrified razor wire perimeter fence, video surveillance, armed guards, and vehicle inspections at the contractors accommodations in Entebbe. Will the contractor be expected to provide these security measures for themselves? Security

The living arrangements at Entebbe are walled-in, rented housing compounds. The

Government does not guard the houses, but does provide gate guards and police guards, as well as, razor wire and security cameras. The Contractor is responsible for providing any additional security measures deemed fit as recommended by the US Embassy, however, is not required to do so.

58 26-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Please advise if you are able to provide a copy of the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) for

Uganda. Clearance The requested SOFA is not available.

59 26-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 3 in

Amendment

0003 Section 1.1.6

Amendment 3 added language to use 2000 feet MSL field elevation, a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, and a runway length of 1800 feet for planning purposes (Question and Answer

# 19). The 2000 feet MSL field elevation is the same as one of the cited example airports (Obo, ICAO FEFB), but the runway length at FEFB is 2133 feet. At 2000 feet MSL and a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, take off from a runway 1800 feet long is not possible in the incumbent aircraft (and other STOL equivalent aircraft that otherwise meet all the PWS aircraft requirements) due to performance limitations in the flight manual. Please clarify if the runway length for planning purposes should be adjusted to 2,200 ft (OBO's runway) in place of 1,800 ft., removing the exclusion of the incumbent and equivalent STOL aircraft.

Aircraft

Requirement

See Amendment 0004 which changes the runway length in PWS paragraph 1.1.6 to 2,400 ft for planning purposes, however, still requires the contractor to take off/land on improved and unimproved dirt airfields of a minimum of 1800 feet in length.

60 26-Sep-13

Instructions to

Offerors, pages

40 -41 of 60

Section 12 Part

III (a), Is the page limitation for this factor/subfactor exclusive of cover page and table of contents? Technical Proposal No.

61 26-Sep-13

Questions &

Answers previously posted Question 23

Please clarify the types of fuel available at Entebbe, Uganda and Dungu. Specifically, jet fuel availability. JET-A1

62 26-Sep-13

Attch 1 -PWS pg 5 Sec 1.3.1 Are loadmasters considered aircrew? Personnel Yes.

63 26-Sep-13

Amendment

0002 6 & 9

The 1st paragraph indicates best value award - and may result in award to a higher rated, higher priced offeror, where the SSA determines that the superior past performance of the higher priced offeror outweighs the cost difference. Paragraph (b) on page 9 of 9 indicates that if that the government will award to lowest-priced technically acceptable Category 1 offeror.

Please clarify that LPTA will be utilized only when evaluating offers against Category 1 and

Category 2 operators, in accordance with the Fly America Act. Evaluation Criteria

LPTA will not be utilized. This acquisition will be conducted as a Best Value, Performance-

Price Trade-off (PPT) source selection IAW FAR Parts 12, 15.101-1, trade-off process, and

DoD source selection procedures. No trade-off will be made only if the lowest-priced technically acceptable offeror is a DOD CARB Approved contractor, receives a Category 1

Fly America Act Preference and a Past Performance Confidence Assessment rating of

Substantial Confidence as stated in Addendum 52.212-2 (b).

64 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Will the Government provide a fuel card for the contract for use for fuel at Entebbe and

Dungu? Fuel No, contractors are required to procure their own fuel.

65 28-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 2 1.1.2

Will the Government please clarify that it is the responsibility of the contractor to purchase and store fuel at each of the required forward operating bases to include Obo, Nzara, Dungu, and Djema? Fuel

The contractor is responsible for making arrangements for fuel at all locations IAW PWS para 1.1.2.

66 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Will the Government provide security for each of the contractor’s fuel depots? Or is this the responsibility of the contractor? Fuel The Contractor is required to secure their own fuel.

67 28-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9 Will all airdrops be above 500 feet or will there airdrops lower than that? Air Drop

Air drops will be accomplished above 500ft unless the contractor obtains FAA approval to conduct air drops below 500ft. This answer replaces the answer provided for Question

31.

68 28-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 7 1.9 Is the FAA Altitude Deviation required for this contract to support Air Drops below 500 feet? Air Drop

Air drops will be accomplished above 500ft unless the contractor obtains FAA approval to conduct air drops below 500ft.

69 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A Must the contractor’s aircraft have a rear ramp door or is a side door acceptable?

Aircraft

Requirements There is not a requirement for a rear door.

70 28-Sep-13

Attch 1 - PWS pg 2 1.1.2 Will the Government provide any fuel at any location for the contractor? Fuel

No, the contractor is responsible for procuring their own fuel at all locations IAW PWS para 1.1.2.

71 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

For fuel reimbursements, are contractors allowed to bill for total cost per gallon of fuel at remote locations? This could include transportation of fuel, storage of fuel, security of fuel, refueling costs, etc. Fuel

There is not a fuel reimbursement CLIN, but rather Fuel EPA Reimbursable CLINs (0006, etc). As stated in Attachment 3 - Payment Information and WAWF, fuel adjustments for these CLINs are IAW PWS paragraph 3.6 and TRANSFARs Clause 5552.216-9002.

TRANSFARs Clause 5552.216-9002 states "Allowable fuel adjustments will be made, upward or downward, only if the DESC price varies by more than 3 % per gallon from the base price established in the contract (hereafter referred to as the “pegged price”)". Any other costs associated with securing fuel, transporting fuel, etc should be bid into the contractor's pricing proposal.

72 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A Will the Government provide perimeter security at the contractor’s housing facilities? Security See answer to question #57.

73 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

For RON situations, should the contractor plan to have tents, bedding, and meals aboard the aircraft for contractor personnel required to RON? RON

The intent is to have the air assets return to an outstation collocated with USSOF after dropping off pax/cargo anywhere in the area. When the contractor RONs at one of the outstations, they are guests of the USSOF camps. Lodging and bedding will be provided on a space-a basis. Food and water may/may not be available, so the contractor should carry provisions. Pre-coordination is key for events like these. If an asset has to RON somewhere else, several options are available. The contractor needs to bring their own equipment to care for themselves in cases like this, though this occurrence is very rare.

Some villages and cities have hotels. At some locations, the local partner nation force agrees to provide lodging at the partner nation camp for mission personnel, including the contractor crew. This may/may not include tents, small shacks, or a well-constructed building with water and electricity. In the event an air asset cannot return to an outstation, USSOF accompanying the aircraft will provide force protection. In these rare circumstances, the contractor might foresee a need to bring provisions (MREs, water, equipment, etc.) along with them if remaining on a remote site is expected.

74 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Should all contractors expect to price into their pricing proposal the 18% VAT on all fuel, life support, equipment and supplies? Taxes

The contractor should account of any costs which are not covered under PWS Section 3

"Reimbursable Services and Costs" in their pricing proposal.

75 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Since the contractor is supporting the U.S. Government on this mission, could you please include a clause that makes the contract exempt from VAT and local business taxes? Taxes

The US Government does not have agreements with the Host Nation (HN), therefore, any VAT/local taxes shall be paid by the contractor.

76 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A Will the USG allow VAT to reimbursed under the cost reimbursable CLIN? Reimbursables

Only costs outlined in PWS Section 3 "Reimbursable Services and Costs" are authorized for reimbursement under this contract.

77 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

What is the maximum distance (in miles) required to fly between the various departure sites and landing zones?

Aircraft

Requirements

Entebbe, Uganda to Obo, CAR is roughly 500nm. Air Force planes stop to refuel at other destination(s) en route to Obo. Names and locations of other sites throughout the AOR cannot be released due to OPSEC.

78 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Will the Government provide CRC or DPC for contractor personnel deploying to theater?

Where will this be located and what is the process for enrollment? Training

Please refer to the AFRICOM website (http://www.africom.mil/staff-resources/travel-to-africa) for information on training contractor personnel deploying to Africa. Additionally, the State Department website (http://www.state.gov/) is another source for information on travel to Africa.

79 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A

Will the Government please clarify what standard of personnel training and/or pre-deployment actions are required? (CRC, DPC, Medical standards: to include various shots and immunizations; we ask the government consider time frames associated with these processes). Training

Please refer to the AFRICOM website (http://www.africom.mil/staff-resources/travel-to-africa) for pre-deployment requirements. Additionally, the State Department website

(http://www.state.gov/) is another source for information on pre-deployment requirements before travel to Africa.

80 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A Will the contractor need to have a passenger processing facility at the Entebbe home base? Personnel No.

81 28-Sep-13 N/A N/A Is the housing and life support for the staff and support staff required to be OSHA complaint? Support

No, the OSH Act covers most private sector employers and their workers, in addition to some public sector employers and workers in the 50 states and certain territories and jurisdictions under federal authority. Those jurisdictions include the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Wake

Island, Johnston Island, and the Outer Continental Shelf Lands as defined in the Outer

Continental Shelf Lands Act.

82 28-Sep-13

Amendment

0003 pgs 3-11

Addendums

52.212-1 & 2 To Clarify, the award criteria for this contract is Best Value not LPTA right? Evaluation Criteria

Yes, IAW Addendum 52.212-1 (a), "This acquisition will be conducted as a Best Value, Performance-Price Trade-off (PPT) source selection IAW FAR Parts 12, 15.101-1, trade-off process, and DoD source selection procedures. "

83 30-Sep-13 N/A N/A

We are only able to submit for CARB review and certification via a DoD Statement of Intent if we are a “potential awardee” on a USG contract. We have prepared all the required documentation for submission – can we submit a bid to this RFP and be considered? General The Government does not preclude any contractors from submitting a proposal.

84 30-Sep-13

Questions &

Answers previously posted Question 40

Where will this Joint Reception Center (JRC) be and is there an estimated timeline for an individual to “in-process” before they can begin work? Will these be required upon entry for every rotation? General

There is currently no JRC requirement for contractor to process through in order to support this contract. However, the Theater Commander may establish a JRC requirment in the future which the contractor shall comply with at no additional cost.

85 1-Oct-13 N/A N/A

Uganda charges an 18% VAT tax on all purchases except fuel. Will with government reimburse

VAT tax? Taxes

Only costs outlined in PWS Section 3 "Reimbursable Services and Costs" are authorized for reimbursement under this contract.

86 1-Oct-13 N/A N/A

The PWS sets a pegged rate for fuel similar to that available in Entebbe, Uganda where bulk fuel is available. Fuel logistics is a significant part of this contract as Obo and Djema are up to a

6 week drive from Entebbe, including three Border crossings. This fuel comes at a significant price due to transportation cost. Further, petty theft is characteristic in this region, meaning a large percentage of fuel may be missing or tampered with upon arrival. The contractor cannot estimate the dollar figure to budget for transportation cost as the location fuel will be delivered to is determined by the dynamic and every changing mission requirements. Will the government consider reimbursing fuel at time of purchase instead of after utilization to protect contractors from this very real and unbudgetable risk? Will the government also include transportation costs in the reimbursement of fuel as it is typically included in the per litre price of fuel at forward operating locations? Fuel

Only costs outlined in PWS Section 3 "Reimbursable Services and Costs" are authorized for reimbursement under this contract. Any other costs should be bid into the contractor's pricing proposal.