N00019-16-R-0063_Draft_RFP_Q A_27_Oct_2016.pdf

NAVAIR PMA-263 ISR SERVICES DRAFT RFP QUESTIONS AND RESPONSES

N00019-16-R-0063

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Land-Based PBWS 2.2.2.2

System Footprint/Mobility and Transportation Requirements

Please clarify the types of shipping containers required to be furnished by the contractor in the statement, “The contractor shall be responsible for providing any required shipping containers.”

The contractor is responsible for shipments from CONUS to the theater point of embarkation. Shipments shall be complaint with the requirements set forth in MIL-STD- 2073-1E.

Other FMV payloads state EO or IR. More modern payloads offerings always feature both. Why is there this distinction?

A camera that has both EO and IR capabilities can be proposed, as long as each satisfies the required applicable NIIRS rating; but the minimum requirement is for an EO or IR camera.

Draft RFP Section L para 1.2.5

Prerequisites Can the offeror meet the prerequisite requirement for fuel compatibility by providing deployed operational experience (flight hours) using these fuels as evidence of successful operation on these fuels.

A description of the Fuel System is required to show that the engine operates on JP-5/-8 or AVGAS 100LL.

Sea-based PBWS If a UAS has a current NAVAIR Category 3 IFC, what additional certifications or approvals are required to permit sea-based operations on a naval ship?

A Sea-Based IFC and an Aviation Facilities Certification will be required.

Pre-Solicitation Conference

Will the Government provide the point of contact information for members of the Program Office?

All necessary POC information is included in the FedBizOps announcement.

Sea-Based PBSW para 2.1.5 Table 1

Air vehicle service ceiling Can ceiling altitude requirement be expressed in terms of "MSL at standard day condition"? The ceiling of this class of air vehicle will vary with density altitude.

All requirements, unless otherwise specified, are at Standard Day Conditions.

Sea-based PBWS 20 & 23 of 41 4.7.1 The DoD Contract Security Classification Specification, DD Form 254, and the Program Protection Plan (PPP) define program specific security requirements.

Please provide a copy of the Program Protection Plan (PPP). Program Protection Plan has been removed from the Land- Based and Sea-Based PBWS.

Land and Sea Based PBWS Appendix 3, Section E, Paragraph C

Network Security How does the Government define "data at rest"? Does it include just the deployed operational system ( AV, control station and control equipment ), or all supporting equipment, to include computing devices across the corporate enterprise?

Data At Rest (DAR) is specific to mobile computing devices. For example, laptop computers, hard drives, etc.

Sea-Base Task Order CLN 0002

Operations Under a sea-based Task Order, what is the expected number of deployed operational days during the 12 month period? How long will the system need to operate between resupplies?

Deployed operational days are expected to be 365 days in a 12-month period. The system should be able to operate for six months between resupplies.

Sea-based PBWS 7 of 41 2.2.1.1 Maximum deck loading is 2.2 pounds per square inch.

Is this a static load condition (weight divided by contact area) or is this a dynamic load condition (acceleration forces due to sea state while chained down to the deck)?

Dynamic.

Draft RFP , CDRL A0001, Flight Clearance Can the Government explain how existing and pending flight clearances under previous NAVAIR contracts will be transitioned to the new MAC?

Flight clearances are not tied to specific contracts. Instead, flight clearances are tied to the configuration, usage case, and operational restrictions. If no changes are needed, the flight clearance will continue until its expiration date.

Sea-based PBWS What support will the Government offer to assist with sea-based implementation for a UAS which has not previously been operated from a ship or sea-based vessel?

For an offeror awarded a Sea-based TO, pre-deployment installation activities will be scheduled upon TO award.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Sea-based PBWS 9 of 41 2.5.1.1 – BE-CDL The contractor shall utilize either L-3

Communications’ Bandit, Vortex, or BE- CDL (when available) radios for video downlink.

How does the Government plan to communicate and implement changes in technical requirements? How much notification will be provided to meet changes in technical requirements?

Future changes in technical requirements will either be incorporated into the MAC via modifications or included in individual task orders.

Sea-based PBWS 11 of 41 2.5.5.1 – M-Code

PPS GPS

The contractor shall only use DoD approved keyed Precise-Positioning System (PPS)

GPS.

How does the Government plan to communicate and implement changes in technical requirements? How much notification will be provided to meet changes in technical requirements?

Future changes in technical requirements will either be incorporated into the MAC via modifications or included in individual task orders.

Sea-based PBWS 11 of 41 2.5.6 – ADS-B or Mode S transponder

The AV shall have a transponder with Mode 3/C and “IDENT” capability and otherwise comply with all applicable airspace policies and regulations in which it is expected to be flown. This can include but is not limited to expected future policy requirements

How does the Government plan to communicate and implement changes in technical requirements? How much notification will be provided to meet changes in technical requirements?

Future changes in technical requirements will either be incorporated into the MAC via modifications or included in individual task orders.

Sea-based PBWS 12 of 41 2.6.3.1 For the threshold requirement stated in paragraph 2.1.7, the contractor shall provide EO still images in National Imagery Transmission Format (NITF) 2.1 format, captured from the FMV stream.

How does the Government plan to communicate and implement changes in technical requirements? How much notification will be provided to meet changes in technical requirements?

Future changes in technical requirements will either be incorporated into the MAC via modifications or included in individual task orders.

Sea-based PBWS 12 of 41 2.6.3.2 – higher NIIRS ratings)

For the threshold requirement stated in paragraph 2.1.7, the contractor shall provide IR still images in NITF 2.1 format, captured from the FMV stream.

How does the Government plan to communicate and implement changes in technical requirements? How much notification will be provided to meet changes in technical requirements?

Future changes in technical requirements will either be incorporated into the MAC via modifications or included in individual task orders.

Task Order Two 12 of 18 4.6.1-4.6.2 The in-Theatre Point of Embarkation for personnel and equipment is expected to be Ali Al Salem, Kuwait.

The Central Receiving and Shipping Point (CRSP) is at Camp Arifjan. Will all further movement be completed by the USG or the contractor?

Government.

Pre-Solicitation Conference

Will the Government release the names of the companies that attended the pre-solicitation conference?

The Government will not provide a list of companies that attended. However, interested companies who have elected to make themselves known are listed under the FedBizOps announcement.

Flight Clearance How long does it take to get a flight clearance? It depends. Generally speaking IFCs for new UAS take longer than a revision or an IFC for a system that has been previously cleared. Availability of information identified in the Pre-solicitation conference Airworthiness Process briefing is a key factor. This information includes operating manuals, configuration artifacts, limitations, etc.). Battery and/or Laser certifications (if applicable) can become schedule drivers.

Draft RFP, Section M, Section 1

Task Orders Are the task orders to be awarded with the MAC award, new sites, or sites that are currently being serviced under the current ISR Services contract?

Land-based: current sites Sea-Based: new

Sea-based PBWS 6 of 41 2.1.12 The air vehicle shall comply with all applicable airspace policies and regulations under which it is or is expected to be operated.

Could these policies and regulations possibly include additional technical requirements of the UAS?

MAC holders will be required to comply with the applicable air space policies and regulations in place at time of task order performance. These policies and regulations may require modification of the air vehicle to comply.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Land and Sea Based PBWS Appendix 3, Section C

Network Security With Windows 7 listed as non-NIAP compliant, and the transition to Windows 10 on going, will the Government be granting waivers for contractors to transition after the proposed January 2017 deadline?

MAC holders will be required to comply with the applicable operating system requirements in place at time of task order performance.

Flight Clearance Will NAVAIR sponsor offerors for a NAVAIR Flight Clearance pre-award to level the playing field for non-incumbent bidding companies?

No.

Other With all IDIQ awardees be required to response/submit proposals for every Task Order?

No.

Sea-based PBWS Will the Government provide a shipboard platform to test our UAS to validate support the certification?

No.

RFP Section L NA Is an ATO a prerequisite for this RFP? No. An ATO is not a prerequisite for MAC award.

Prerequisites are defined in the Executive Summary of Section L and Section M of the RFP.

Sea-Based PBWS 2.1.9 The AV shall operate on JP-5 Aviation Grade Turbine Fuel per MIL-DTL-5624W.

Will waivers be granted for the use of AVGAS instead of JP-5 for Sea-Based

No. Only JP-5 is authorized for shipboard operations.

Sea-based PBWS 4 of 41 Table 1 Deck Loading 2.22 psi Will the Government please review and provide updated deck loading requirements.

No. The deck loading requirement is 2.22 psi.

RFP Section L Navy ISR is the only Sea-Based contractor owned contractor operated (COCO) UAV contract in the industry, so past performance requirements favor the only incumbent. Can you revise?

No. The Government will not revise the Corporate Experience evaluation factor. The Government will not evaluate past performance. Furthermore, relevant corporate experience is not limited to only those that performed sea-based in the past.

RFP Small Business Will there be any 8a or small-business set asides or requirements for teaming arrangements with small-businesses as part of the source selection? (If so, can you please provide more information or specifics?)

No. There will not be any 8a or small-business set asides or requirements for teaming arrangements with small-businesses as part of the source selection.

Section L, Part B, Para 2.1.1.2 , Figure 1; Sea Based

PBWS 2.7

Air vehicle performance payload requirement

Does NAVAIR intend for the Sea-Based SWAP to include the AIS relay payload?

No. The AIS relay is not included in the Sea-Based SWaP.

Land and Sea Based PBWS Appendix 3, Section C

Network Security Will the Government grant waivers for non-NIAP hardware and software?

Non-NIAP hardware will be addressed via RMF A&A process. Generally, waivers are not granted but the items are addressed via the POA&M and an ATO can still be obtained. This is one of the factors considered when a risk based determination is made and an ATO is granted.

Land and Sea Based PBWS Appendix 3, Section E, Paragraph A

Network Security What is the scope of the PKI requirements? Does it include only operational sites, or the entire corporate enterprise?

PKI requirements are specific to the network that houses the system information and Government specific data.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Tasks performed under this service contract will require contract operators to have a secret clearance and provide 24/7 ISR services, which require the contractor to conduct all planning, coordination, certification, installation, pre-deployment, deployment, logistics, maintenance, flying, and post-deployment efforts necessary to successfully conduct worldwide ship-based and/or land-based missions.

Does the contract allow for acquisition of clearances post award of contract?

Required security clearances will be needed prior to accessing hardware required to perform each task order. It is unlikely that an offeror would have access to the hardware required to propose without a security clearance.

Personnel security clearances will be required prior to individual personnel deployment.

Land-Based PBWS 4.6.6

Transportation With regard to “request and obtain a shipping document number from the Government, so as to enable expedited handling of contractor’s shipments.” Please clarify if this requirement is specific to shipments to/from the in-theater locations from/to the embarkation point or does it also apply to any shipments to/from the embarkation point from/to

CONUS?

Requirement will be removed from the Land-Based

PBWS.

Exhibit (A) CDRL A008 Block 5 Contract Reference: PBWS 2.6.7.2 It is noted that the referenced paragraph 2.6.7.2 does not exist in the Sea-based PBWS. Nor does the Sea-based PBWS reference CDRL A008. Please clarify.

Sea Based does not require CDRL A008.

RFP Will there be a positioning cost CLIN? Shipping costs should be bid in the pre-deployment CLIN

(FFP).

Land-Based PBWS 4.6.8

Transportation Please describe which party under the contract will be responsible for the export of Government property, especially payloads? If the contractor has this responsibility the Government needs to understand there could be upwards of three months before a export license can be issued by the State Department. The contractor would need the export classification information and other related product information to properly submit the export license application.

When should the contractor expect to receive such information?

Site locations, theater points of embarkation, and Government provided equipment will be specified at the Task Order level. The theater points of embarkation are staffed with a Government agency capable of forward shipment of Government property should the Task Order require the use of Government equipment that is ITAR controlled.

PBWS The draft PBWS states SSCAM and NUTHERM versions from 2006 should be used for sensor modeling. The Excel worksheets state the 2009 version. Which should be used?

The 2009 version is the correct version. The Government will update the PBWS to correct.

RFP Section L A currently valid UAS Airworthiness Certificate for the UAS being proposed issued from a Civil and/or Military Airworthiness Authority

Can a current flight clearance for Land-Based operations be submitted for the Sea-Based RFP?

The airworthiness certificate must be current, valid, and for the configuration being proposed, regardless of operational environment.

Exhibits and Attachments

Section J - Att 4 Does the Government intend to provide this attachment? Or are contractors to use the clause found on page 55-56 of draft

RFP?

The awardee's responses to DFARS clause 252.227-7017 will be included as Attachment (4) under Section J at contract award.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Sea-based PBWS 22 of 41 4.6.1 …Shall deploy with parts and sparing provisions to sustain normal operations for the deployment duration stated in the Task Order.

Requirement 4.6.1 states that the contractor “shall deploy with parts and sparing provisions to sustain normal operations for the deployment duration stated in the Task Order”. The Task Order One Sea Based document CLIN 0002 states that the deployment period is 12 months. Is the contractor expected to store all 12 months of spares within the space defined in section 2.2.1.3?

The contractor is expected to store six months of spares within the allocated space.

RFP Section L The source selection brief stated "best value" for evaluation, but other brief stated Task Orders would be LPTA - which is it?

The evaluation scheme for the ISR MAC and initial Task Orders source selection will be best value trade off. The Government anticipates that the evaluation scheme for future Task Order competitions will be LPTA; however, the Government may elect to conduct best value tradeoff source selections if unique requirement or past performance on current task orders dictates a necessity.

Land-Based PBWS 2.5.2.3

Bandpass Filters Does the use of the word "local" indicate that this filter will need to be changed on a site by site basis? If so will this be specified at Time of Task Order award?

The filter will be required on a site-by-site basis and will be specified within the task order.

Draft RFP Section L para 1.2.5

Prerequisites Can the offeror meet the prerequisite requirement for mission profile execution using a mission simulation based on flight test data?

The flight test data must be from the performance of an actual flight of the mission profile. Simulation of the flight will is not acceptable

Land-Based and Sea-Based PBWS 2.5.6.2

IFF Will the Government provide coordination support for the AIMS platform certification?

The Government will act as a liaison between the MAC holders and the AIMS program office in support of obtaining the AIMS platform certification.

RFP Section L Page 63, Paragraph 4.1 and page 67, paragraph 1.4; on early submission of tables ES-1, ES-2, CE-1, and Annex C

Under Section L, page 63, paragraph 4.1, requires one paper and one electronic copy of each of these documents. Under Section L, page 67, paragraph 1.4, states Annex C only in electronic format and not paper. Please confirm electronic or electronic and paper for Annex C and then that all above documents (ES-1, ES-2, CE-1. and Annex C) are due 3 weeks after RFP release.

The Government will correct this in the final RFP.

Sea-based PBWS 41 of 41 NA NA PBWS pages are listed as “Page X of 41” but page 41 is missing. Last page of the PBWS is “Page 40 of 41.”

The Government will correct this in the final RFP.

FBO

Announcement

Final proposal due date falls on December 25.

Current due date is December 25. If due date falls on a Government holiday, will the Government be available to receive delivery the day before, the day after, or the day of?

The Government will ensure that the proposal due date is a business day that is not a federal holiday.

RFP Section M Small Business Why is the small business plan not being evaluated for a procurement of this size?

The Government will evaluate the small business plan as part of the technical evaluation in accordance with Section M.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response RFP Section M, Specific

Information, Technical, 3rd paragraph

Section M, Specific Information, Technical, 3rd paragraph states that “However, for this solicitation there is no benefit to the Government of exceeding a requirement or by providing merit that enhances performance or operations. Therefore, no strengths will be assigned and only the Technical Rating definitions of Acceptable and Unacceptable will be used to relate the results of the evaluation.”

Since the period of performance of the MAC is five years and significant technology innovation in sensors and payloads is expected to occur during the five years which benefits program performance and operations, wouldn’t it be beneficial to the Government to evaluate the strengths of UAS to exceed current requirements and support future technology innovations in sensors and payloads. Secondly, if a particular UAS can carry more payload than the base “threshold” requirement, and can accommodate the power requirements to carry advanced EW and EO-IR sensors simultaneously for the entire mission, thus adding a significant advantage to the warfighter such as instantaneous Geo and expanded SOI identification, it seems that exceeding the base payload weight and power requirement would benefit the Government and the mission. Request the Government consider adding a performance “objective” which addresses the mission enhancement offered by simultaneous multiple payload integration on a single UAS flight mission. This would offer the ability for the Government to evaluate improved mission capability and to rate UAS performance against the objective (e.g., a strength is assigned to UAS which meets or exceed the objective). Request the Government consider revising Section M, Specific Information, Technical, 3rd paragraph to allow evaluation of benefit to the Government of exceeding a requirement or by providing merit that enhances performance or operations.

The Government will not change Section M or add an objective to the PBWS. The PBWS provides the necessary performance to perform currently anticipated mission requirements. Therefore, for selecting offerors for the MAC or Task Order, there is no benefit to the Government to exceeding the requirement from as a performance standpoint.

Other Would the Government consider as a desired value-added capability, a capability which provides a 5 MB/sec throughput SatCom link for beyond-line-of-sight operations while carrying the desired payloads for a threshold 12 hour flight?

The Government will not change Section M or add an objective to the PBWS. The PBWS provides the necessary performance to perform currently anticipated mission requirements. Therefore, for selecting offerors for the MAC or Task Order, there is no benefit to the Government to exceeding the requirement from as a performance standpoint.

RFP Section M CPARS/CE Experience How will the Government measure CPARS if they exist?

Interviews with PUCs can be sometimes subjective. CPARS are a more official indicator of CE or past performance.

You're going to evaluate CE but how will you evaluate performance?

The Government will not evaluate past performance as part of the UAS ISR source selection.

Sea-Based PBWS 2.6.3.1.1

EO Payload Performance The Sea-Based EO specification refers to 2006 NVESD, while the Land-Based PBWS refers to NVESD 2009. Should the Sea- Based specification also be NVESD 2009?

The Government will revise the Sea-Based specification to include the 2009 NVESD.

Sea-Based PBWS 2.6.3.2.1

IR Payload Performance The Sea-Based IR specification refers to 2006 NVESD, while the Land-Based PBWS refers to NVESD 2009. Should the Sea- Based specification also be NVESD 2009?

The Government will revise the Sea-Based specification to include the 2009 NVESD.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Task Order One Section C, Items

0002 and Option Items 1002, 2002 and 3002; Task Order 2, Section C, Items 0006 and 0106 and Option Items 1006, 1106, 2006, 2106, 3006 and 3106 (Deployment).

Task Order One, Section C, Items 0002 and Option Items 1002, 2002 and 3002 state that “Variations in the levels of support in a given month not greater than 10% of the stated range are considered to be within scope of the task order. The contractor shall not be required to provide support greater than 10% over the allotted sensor data hours in a given month for three or more consecutive months.” Task Order Two, Section C, Items 0006 and 0106 and Option Items 1006, 1106, 2006, 2106, 3006 and 3106 (Deployment) state that “The level of monthly support described in Section B characterizes a range of total monthly support and not the exact number of sensor hours. The actual sensor data hours (within the established range) may vary from month to month depending on operational requirements. ISR mission tasking, requested by the OIC, less than 300 hours is not a reduction in scope.”

Question: Task Order 2 does not specify the upper range of variations in the level of support in a given month which impacts the contractors ability to determine manning, sparing, and pricing. Request the Government specify the upper range of variations in the level of support in a given month for Task Order 2.

The Government will update Task Order 1 to be consistent with Task Order 2.

Sea-based PBWS 4 of 41 Table 1, Note 8 Error! Reference source not found. The Word document appears to have had broken hyperlinks when printed. – Error appears on Land-based PBWS, but not Sea-based PBWS.

The Government will update the PBWS to correct.

Other Please define what variant of OSRVT and VideoScout are being reviewed as compatible with this RFP.

The Government will update the PBWS to include the compatible variants.

Section L, Part B, Para 2.1.1.2, Figure

Air vehicle performance payload requirement

Reference for Land-Based PBWS should be 4.1.1.8 and not 4.1.1.9.

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

RFP 3-4 of 95 CLIN 0004 &

CLIN 0008

Familiarization course unit of measure is in months.

Recommend this CLIN be measured as a Lot or each. The Government will update the RFP to correct.

RFP 65 of 95 1.2.5 Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) -representative payload IAW Land-Based PBWS (para 4.1.1.9)…

The paragraph being referenced does not exist. Believe this to be a typo, and the correct Land-Based PBWS paragraph reference is 4.1.1.8.

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

RFP 72 of 95 2.1.3 Section numbering 2.1.3 skipped. The Government will update the RFP to correct.

RFP 88 of 95 5252.215-9503 The anticipated award date for this requirement is September 2018.

The award date listed here appears to be in conflict with other award dates referenced in the solicitation material – e.g.: 1) FedBizOps – April 2017 award; 2) Land TO – Pre-deployment PoP (CLIN 0005) ends 30 Nov 2017

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

Exhibit (A) CDRL A007 Block 12 Block 12: In accordance with DoD 8500.2 the following documentation must be provided after contract award (CA).

DODI 8500.2 was cancelled 14 MAR 2014 per DoDI

8500.01. Please confirm DoD guidance to follow.

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

Sea-based PBWS 17 of 41 4.1.1.10 (CDRL A004)

Reserved This section is marked “reserved.” Will the CDRL A004 be updated to remove reference to the Reserved section?

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Sea-based PBWS 21 of 41 4.4.3 The contractor shall provide a Lead FSR who will be responsible for support and management of this contract. The Lead FSR shall also liaise with PMA-263/UAS OIC for fulfillment of contractual requirements.

The Lead FSR shall provide supervision for all employees and will be responsible for the safety and accountability of all contractor employees.

This requirement states that a Lead FSR will be “responsible for support and management of this contract.” Request the Government modify this language to read “a Lead FSR who will be responsible for support and management of Task Orders as assigned,” or similar.

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

Sea-Based PBWS and Land-Based

PBWS

The Sea-Based PBWS indicates the EO/IR payloads must be combined with EO NIIRS of 8.4 and IR NIIRS of 7.2. The Land-Based PBWS has the same NIIRS requirements, but reads as two separate payloads (one for EO and one for IR) may be used. Does the Sea-Based contract require a singer payload for both, or will it be re-written to match the land requirement?

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

Sea-based PBWS 20 of 41 4.2.5.2 Crew Duty Day/Crew Rest: Crew duty day can consist of up to an 18 hour duty day followed by 8 hours of uninterrupted rest.

It appears that the Crew Duty Day/Crew Rest requirements in the UASISR-Services, Sea Based PBWS section 4.2.5.2 are based on OPNAVINST 3710.7U. contractor requests the standard duty day be reduced to a maximum of 16 hours in order to align with OPNAVINST 3710.7U, which allows for 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. By stating that a standard crew duty day can consist of 18 hours with 8 hours of uninterrupted rest, there is the possibility that UAS operators could be put in a position where they are regularly expected to perform official duties for 18 hour periods with only 8 hours of off time which exceeds the requirements in OPNAVINST 3710.7U and would significantly increase safety risks. As stated in the OPNAVINST 3710.7U, “as the time continuously awake exceeds 16 hours, performance efficiency begins to drop.” By defining the “standard” crew duty day as 16 hour maximum, the risk of a drop in performance efficiency, and therefore increase in safety risk, is mitigated.

The Government will update the RFP to correct.

Maximum standard crew day will be 16 vice 18 hours.

General Has the Navy considered adding a wide area search, automated detection, and mapping payload to the payload requirement set?

The Land-Based and Sea-Based PBWS allows for specialty payloads to be added at the Task Order level.

The Government would include a wide area search, automated detection, and mapping payload at the Task Order level if needed for that Task Order.

Attachment L-13, OIR Draft Task Order, Section C, Sensor Data Hours

EW Payload Requirements Can the Government define the EW sensor data hour percentage. (Similar to Sea-Based TO)?

The Land-Based Task Order does NOT require an EW payload. The EW sensor data hour percentage is ZERO%.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Flight Clearance Does the NAVAIR Airworthiness Office offer training on the

NAVAIR flight clearance process?

The NAVAIR Airworthiness and Cybersafe Directorate (NAVAIR AIR 4.0P) offers all day airworthiness training several times a year. Industry partners can attend that training. Additional information concerning scheduled training events can be obtained by contacting the Airworthiness Office Global Customer Support Team at 301-757-0187. AIR 4.0P has also in the past provided a condensed version of airworthiness training with a focus on UAS-specific airworthiness to industry partners. Such requests must be coordinated with Airworthiness Office Global Customer Support Team at 301-757-0187.

Draft RFP Section L para 1.2.1

Prerequisites Can the offeror meet the prerequisite requirement for UAS Airworthiness Certification for the proposed UAS by providing an existing Certificate or Category 3 IFC, together with supporting documentation for product enhancements needed to meet the increased payload requirements of the revised PBWS?

The offeror can meet the prerequisite requirement for UAS Airworthiness Certification by providing an existing Airworthiness Certification authorizing the proposed UAS configuration without the required Government Payload SWaP requirements.

Sea-Based PBWS 2.2.1.1

Deck loading Please clarify the requirements for complying with the maximum deck loading requirement for the launch and recovery area. Can the offeror assume the deck loading limitation applies to the entire flight deck area? If not please specify the deck areas where the maximum deck loading applies.

The offeror should assume the deck loading limitation applies to the entire flight deck area.

Sea-Based PBWS 2.2.1.2.

Deck loading Please clarify the requirements for complying with the maximum deck loading requirement for the storage area. Can the offeror assume the deck loading limitation applies to the entire 500 square foot surface area specified in the requirement? If not please specify the deck areas where the maximum deck loading applies.

The offeror should assume the deck loading limitation applies to the entire storage area.

04_Attachment (L-

3) Vol_1 NVTherm.pdf

Attachment L-3 pdf Can the Government explain the addition of the L-3 attachment for NV Therm.pdf? Is this additive to the excel spread sheet?

The only L-3 attachment is the excel spreadsheet, "Attachment (L-3) Vol 1 NV Therm.xls".

Land-based PBWS Section 4.1.1.5.3 Land-based PBWS Section 4.1.1.5.3 states that “The contractor shall provide data, engineering, test articles, equipment, and test support for Authority to Operate

(ATO).”

The Navy has implemented a new IA process referred to as RMF. This is a structured IA approval for the UAS system.

How much time will the Government be allocating to a offeror after award to obtain an ATO, and is it anticipated that any waivers will be granted while working to obtain RMF approval?

The PBWS will be revised to clarify that an ATO is required prior to deployment. An ATO may be required at an earlier time as determined in the TO solicitation on a case by case basis.

Land-Based PBWS Land-Based PBWS 2.1.5 Table 1 Does the requirement for the launch and recovery site slope, perimeter obstacle and surface obstacle apply simultaneously or individually? What assumption concerning the launch and recovery direction at the site is required? What assumption concerning wind direction is required?

The requirement for the launch/recovery condition is to be applied simultaneously. A pre-deployment site survey will afford the contractor the ability to identify optimal locations for placement of the LRE equipment to mitigate these conditions. No assumptions are required as to the wind and recovery directions.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Draft RFP Section L para 1.2.5

1.2.5 …… The flight test launch shall be at 0' Above Ground Level (AGL), with immediate climb-out to 3,000' AGL, then cruise out to 50 nautical miles (nm) operational radius (assuming zero wind, and at average speed of 50+ Knots True Air Speed (KTAS) from launch to target), loiter and data-collection over-target for 10 hours, then return to mission origination site (at 50+ KTAS) and recover…..

Proposed wording to be changed to: 1.2.5 …… The flight test launch shall be at 0' Above Ground Level (AGL), with immediate climb-out to 3,000' AGL, then cruise out to 50 nautical miles (nm) operational radius (assuming zero wind, and at average speed of 50+ Knots True Air Speed (KTAS) from launch to target), loiter and data-collection over-target and return to base for a total of 10 hours, then return to mission origination site (at 50+ KTAS) and recover…..

The requirement is correctly stated and will not be changed.

RFP Section L 1.2.3 1.2.3 Air Traffic Control Radar Beacon System, Identification Friend or Foe, Mark XII/Mark XIIA, Systems (AIMS) Box-Level certification for the Mode 3/C Transponder installed in the proposed system that demonstrates compliance with the Land-Based and Sea-Based PBWS paragraph 2.5.6.

Could you please confirm section 1.2.3. is for a Mode 5 Transponder, similar to our PN: MX12A, DoD AIMS Mk XIIA Mode 5 Transponder?

The requirement is only for a transponder with Mode 3/C capabilities.

Sea-based PBWS 22 of 41 4.5.2 The contractor shall provide an initial mishap report that provides the following information within 24 hours of the incident:

Date, Time, Location, Weather, AV type, Other Pertinent Configuration Notes, Brief Summary of Mishap and Initial Root Cause Assessment.

Given the limited bandwidth available on ships and at forward deployed locations, the offeror request this requirement be modified to read, "24 hours after receipt of necessary mishap information,” or similar.

The requirement will remain the same.

Sea and Land- Based PBWS 2.1.5, Table 1

Air vehicle service ceiling Please confirm the the AV ceiling requirements include all of the operational payload requirements. Please confirm there is an operational need for video and EW payloads at the ceiling altitude.

The service ceiling requirement applies with both payloads (EO/IR and EW) installed.

Land-Based PBSW para 2.1.7.2 and Sea-Based PBWS para 2.1.8.2

Paint Is a two color paint scheme necessary for this size air vehicle?

Based on a review of MIL-STD-21161C the two color scheme seems to apply to a Group 4 UAS.

The two-color paint scheme is a requirement. MIL-STD- 2161C illustrates the required contrasting color scheme.

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response

FBO

Announcement offerors are expected to provide imagery services using non-developmental contractor-owned and contractor-operated unmanned aircraft systems. It is anticipated that the offeror would be able to support multiple simultaneous task orders within one procurement year with contractor personnel supporting DOD and Other Government Agencies (OGA) requirements.

Following contract award, the contractor shall be expected to deploy to land and/or ship based missions within 90 days. This is a follow-on service effort that is currently satisfied by a competitively awarded multiple award contract (MAC), IDIQ.

Please let me know if the verbiage is still valid or not. If it is not valid as written, can you please let me know what is the latest verbiage related to initial ‘services’ delivery need date or where I can find this information.

The verbiage is valid. The requirement timelines are included in each individual task order.

Section L, Part B, Para 2.2.1.5

Draft RFP Does the Deploy and operate in less than 30 minutes with two people limit the total personnel to only two people?

There is no limit on the number of personnel to deploy and operate the system, but the requirement is that it can be accomplished in 30 minutes with just two personnel.

Other Will payloads be accepted in the task orders that feature laser designation?

There is no requirement for laser designators.

RFP Section H-5 CENTCOM Clause 5152.225-5908 Government Furnished contractor Support

(JUN 2015)

Request the Government clarify what Government Furnished contractor Support is provided to U.S. Citizens for “Fuel Authorized”.

This Clause authorizes the contractor, upon approval from the Garrison Mayor, to draw from the local fuel station (at cost to the contractor), which carries only commonly-available fuels, mainly MOGAS, to aid the vendor to maintain transportation to support operations. The contractor is responsible for any special fuels required for the UAS. Note: Most of the fuel procured in combat zones is locally sourced and may not meet the same standards as in the United States.

Land-based PBWS 15 of 37 4.1.1.8.3 Payload dimensions 9”x7”x5” To optimize payload and air vehicle performance, would the Government allow the offeror the ability to reconfigure payloads within the total required size weight and volume specifications outlined in the PBWS for Land and Sea provided baseline or improved payload performance can be achieved.

Unless otherwise specified, the payload vendor will coordinate with the UAS manufacturer on the optimal solution for integration of the Government payload.

Land and Sea Based PBWS Appendix 3, Section E, Paragraph A

Network Security Is Controlled Unclassified Information, or CUI, defined in accordance with the Federal Register dated September 14, 2016?

Yes. CUI is defined IAW the Sept 2016 Federal Register.

Sea-based PBWS 8 of 41 2.4 The GCS shall be installed within the CIC Annex, COC, a ten foot ISO type container, depending on ship class and specific design, or other space as designated by the US Government.

Is the Government-provided Cross Domain Solution, mentioned in PBWS 2.4.5, 2.6.1.1, 2.6.5, and 2.6.7, also expected to fit inside the contractor provided 10 foot ISO container? If so, what are the dimensions of the CDS?

Yes. Dimensions are as follows: 8.5”Wx2.0”Hx14”L

Reference 1 Reference 2 Reference 3 Text Question or remark, recommended change Response Sea-based PBWS 17 of 41 4.1.1.7 The contractor shall support a Ship Shock

Assessment (Grade B) in accordance with MIL-S-901D of 17MAR89 and NAVSEAINST 9072.1A of 24NOV89.

In addition to supporting this Ship Shock Assessment, is compliance with the stated documents also required? Is this testing expected to be destructive?

Yes. The contractor must comply with the referenced documents. This testing may be destructive.

Other Will there be another opportunity to ask questions after today (the pre-solicitation conference)?

Yes. The Government will continue to accept questions from industry on the draft and final RFP. The Government does not guarantee that it will answer all questions.

Land-Based PBWS 2.1.5

Takeoff, Recovery, Operations, and Maintenance Area

Section 2.1.5 of the draft Land-Based PBWS references a 100’ X 100’ area for takeoff, recovery, operations and maintenance area. This is a significant reduction from the 100 meter x 100 meter area required in the previous PBWS revision. Was this an intentional requirement adjustment from the Government? While takeoff and recovery operations from the new area are feasible, the inclusion of the operations and maintenance shelters with associated antenna and ground power in the same area will present a challenge to industry. If the Government determines the 100' X 100' requirement is needed we would suggest that this requirement be confined to footprint for launch/recovery operations only.

Per Table 1 of the Land-Based PBWS, the 100'x100' area applies just to Launch and Recovery operations.

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