STATEMENT OF WORK - F35 STATIC DISPLAY TRAINING AC TRANSPORT - 7.24.2025.pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK (SOW)

FOR

TRANSPORT OF STATIC DISPLAY/ TRAINING F-35 BF-1 AIRCRAFT

30 June 2025

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this effort is to transport one (1) retired (demilitarized), non-flyable F-35 BF-1 training aircraft from Patuxent River (Pax River) to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort for its use as a maintenance training asset. Due to the aircraft’s configuration and inability to have its wings removed, overland transport is not viable. Additionally, transport via air is not a safe or viable option due to safety concerns over highly populated urban areas. This Statement of Work (SOW) outlines a plan to transport the non-flyable F-35 BF-1 aircraft from Patuxent River to MCAS Beaufort using a barge-based maritime solution, followed by aerial recovery via CH-53K helicopter. Due to the aircraft’s configuration and the constraints involved in rotor blade clearance during lift operations, a barge is the preferred method of waterborne transport since a flat deck provides an unobstructed platform that does not impede helicopter blades, ensuring safe and efficient aerial extraction.

SCOPE OF WORK

The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, materials, logistics, coordination, and expertise necessary to safely and efficiently transport the F-35 Static Display Trainer aircraft from Patuxent River (Pax River) to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort. This is a training aircraft and cannot be cut, torn or damaged during transport.

THE FULL SCOPE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:

To ensure full compliance and operational safety, Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) appointed by the Government will be present both onsite and during transport.

1. Preparation and Lifting Safely lift the F-35 BF-1 aircraft from its current land position using an appropriately rated barge-mounted crane.

Ensure lifting procedures follow all applicable safety and structural handling guidelines for the airframe.

2. Securing and Transport

Secure the aircraft to the barge using tie-down equipment rated to handle sea state 7 conditions during maritime transit.

(The government will provide all tie down plans, chains /adapters and personnel qualified to tie down the F-35 to the barge)

Provide lodging accommodation (berthing) and access for two government escorts to use kitchen facilities for meal preparation, along with full bathroom amenities.

Transport the barge carrying the aircraft from Pax River to a designated channel near MCAS Beaufort.

3. Transfer to Final Location Once stabilized, coordinate with VMX-1 (Marine Fighter Attack Experimental) to lift the aircraft from the barge using a CH-53K helicopter, previously proven capable of F-35 transport operations.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT AIRCRAFT

F-35 BF-1 Aircraft Dimensions (Approximate):

1. Length: 51.4 feet (15.7 meters)

2. Wingspan: 35 feet (10.7 meters)

3. Height: 14.4 feet (4.4 meters)

4. Weight: 18,400 lbs.

See below picture for general reference

CONTRATOR QUALIFICATIONS

The Contractor must demonstrate a proven track record in relocating similar types of aircraft, securing oversized load permits, and effectively coordinating with both local and government officials to ensure a streamlined and efficient relocation process.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The anticipated Period of Performance (POP) for this effort is 60 days after award of contract.

PHYSICAL SECURITY

This effort is unclassified, and no personnel clearances are required to be maintained. This aircraft has been certified demilitarized and is considered retired.

Contractor is required to follow all local, state, and federal regulations in the tie down and transport of this Air frame.

All questions related to this Statement of Work can be directed to the Volk Field Contracting Office at WI.CRTC.VF.Contracting@us.af.mil