RFI MH-60T FSS OTD.pdf

Request for Information (RFI)

MH-60T Full Flight Simulator (FFS) and Operational Training Device (OTD)

Section 1: Introduction and Background

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) seeks industry insights from all business concerns, to support acquisition planning for MH-60T Full Flight Simulators (FFS) and potentially mobile Operational Training Devices (OTDs) to meet growing pilot training demands. The MH-60T helicopter fleet is expanding, requiring 3,500 annual flight hours by FY2027 to train 60+ pilots, increasing from 210 pilots pre-FY2024 to approximately 550 by FY2040. The current training system at Aviation Training Center (ATC) Mobile, Alabama, is insufficient, risking operational readiness. This RFI aims to identify solutions for fixed and mobile FFS/OTDs that meet 14 CFR Part 60 standards, support USCG-specific missions (e.g., Search and Rescue, shipboard landings), and ensure reliability, scalability, and cybersecurity compliance e.g., NIST 800-53, ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations).

Objectives:

• Identify capable sources for fixed MH-60T FFS and mobile OTDs.

• Gather data on production, installation, sustainment, and cost factors to inform a potential Request for Proposal (RFP).

• Explore innovative technologies and acquisition approaches to meet FY2027 training demands.

Section 2: Requirements

Fixed FFS and optional mobile OTDs with the following capabilities:

Requirement Fixed FFS Mobile OTD (Optional)

Fidelity Level D, 14 CFR Part 60 Level D-equivalent

Missions SAR, hoist operations, shipboard landings, multi-crew coordination Same as FFS

Environmental

Realism Adverse weather, day/night, extended flight envelopes Same as FFS

Reliability 3,500 hr/year, minimal downtime 3,500 hr/year, minimal downtime

Scalability Compatible with MH-60T upgrades, CYBER/IT compliance Same as FFS

Portability N/A

Fits HC-130J cargo bay (10 ft x 9 ft x 41 ft, 20,000 lb max), <48 hr setup

Definitions:

• Level D FFS: A full flight simulator meeting FAA 14 CFR Part 60 standards for high-fidelity training.

• Extended Flight Envelopes: Flight conditions beyond standard operations, including high-altitude, high-speed, or extreme maneuvers.

• CYBER/IT Compliance: Adherence to USCG cybersecurity standards (e.g., NIST 800-53) and ITAR for export-controlled data.

Section 3: Industry Feedback Questions

Requesting concise, detailed responses to inform acquisition planning. Questions marked with an asterisk (*) are critical. Provide supporting data, diagrams, or examples where applicable, and clearly label proprietary information.

Capabilities & Technical Specifications

1. (*) How does your Level D FFS meet 14 CFR Part 60 and replicate MH-60T systems (e.g., avionics, hydraulics, flight dynamics) and mission-specific scenarios (e.g., SAR, shipboard landings, adverse weather)? Provide examples of fidelity levels achieved.

2. What technologies (e.g., VR, AI-driven scenarios) could enhance MH-60T pilot training beyond current USCG standards?

3. For a mobile OTD, describe portability features (e.g., HC-130J compatibility, setup time) and how Level D-equivalent performance is achieved. (*)

4. How does your solution ensure cybersecurity compliance (e.g., NIST 800-53, ITAR) for IT systems and data?

Acquisition & Delivery

5. (*) What is the estimated timeline for design, production, testing, and delivery of a fixed FFS? Include milestones and risk mitigation strategies.

6. For a mobile OTD, what additional timeline considerations apply for development and deployment?

7. Recommend an acquisition approach (e.g., single contract, phased delivery, lease-to-own) to meet FY2027 training demands, including benefits and risks.

8. How would you coordinate with the USCG to ensure alignment with FY2027 training goals?

Installation & Facility Needs

9. What facility conditions (e.g., power, space, environmental controls) are required for fixed and mobile units, and how do you adapt to site constraints at Air Stations?

10. Describe the installation process, including duration, USCG support needed, and facility modifications.

11. What are the trade-offs between permanent and relocatable designs for fixed and mobile units?

Sustainment & Logistics:

12. (*) How would you ensure sustainment (e.g., maintenance, software/component updates) for fixed and mobile units over a 10-year lifecycle?

13. What is the expected operational lifespan of your solution, and what factors influence durability?

14. What training do you offer for USCG instructors and technicians to operate and maintain the FFS/OTD?

Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCE) Considerations:

15. (*) What are the primary cost drivers for a 10-year lifecycle (e.g., design, production, sustainment)?

16. Propose 3–5 key performance metrics for a Performance Work Statement (PWS) to ensure reliability and training goals (e.g., uptime, training hours delivered).

Additional Insights

17. Provide examples of past simulator projects (e.g., military, aviation), including contract value (if available), timeline, and outcomes.

18. What lessons learned from past projects could improve the USCG’s acquisition or sustainment strategy?

Section 4: Disclaimer

This RFI is for market research and acquisition planning only. It does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to procure. Submission of any information in response to this request is purely voluntary; the Government will not pay for any costs incurred nor is obligated to respond. All submissions become Government property and will not be returned. No proprietary, classified, confidential, or sensitive information should be included in your response to this RFI. The Government reserves the right to use any information provided by respondents for any purpose determined necessary and legally appropriate, including using technical information provided by respondents in any resultant solicitation. Responses may be subject to ITAR considerations; indicate if export controls apply.

The USCG encourages small businesses, including veteran-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged businesses, to respond and will assess set-aside opportunities. The USCG may contact vendors for clarification or one-on-one discussions. The determination of Contract Vehicle and Small Business Set Aside or Full and Open Competition will not be established until market research has been completed.

After reviewing responses to this RFI, and if the plan is made to proceed with the acquisition, a solicitation announcement may be published on the SAM.Gov website or distributed to contract holders if a strategically sourced vehicle is deemed appropriate. It is the responsibility of the interested parties to monitor the SAM.Gov website.

Section 5: Submission Instructions

Adhere to the following guidelines:

• Deadline: Responses must be received by August 13, 2025, 5:00 PM EST] to Sharita.L.Leathers@uscg.mil and Petra.A.McPherson@uscg.mil. Subject line: “MH- 60T FFS/OTD RFI Response – [Vendor Name]”.

• Format: PDF, max 20 pages (excluding appendices for technical specs), 12-point font, single-spaced. Number responses to match questions. (See Template below).

mailto:Sharita.L.Leathers@uscg.mil

• Response Options: Submit one response covering both fixed FFS and mobile OTD or separate responses for each, clearly labeled.

• Industry Day: Indicate interest in a site visit at ATC Mobile in your response.

• Questions: Submit questions by July 16, 2025, to Sharita.L.Leathers@uscg.mil and Petra.A.McPherson@uscg.mil. FAQs will be posted on SAM.Gov by 23 July 2025.

• Template:

1. Capabilities & Technical Specifications

- Q1: [Response]

- Q2: [Response]

2. Acquisition & Delivery

- Q5: [Response]

... etc.: