PFD Questions and Answers 9_Pre-solicitation.docx

PFD Questions and Answers 9 – Pre-solicitation Parachutist Flotation Device W911QY-20-R-010— KPP 1 - System Reliability - states, "The PFD must demonstrate an overall system reliability of 0.9 at 90% confidence level (T). The PFD must demonstrate a reliability of 0.99 at 90% confidence level (O)."

Question 1. Which models and methods are acceptable for calculating PFD system reliability given the parameters in KPP1?

Answer: The Confidence and Reliability will be evaluated during the DT/OT testing. Since this is a buoyancy system being utilized in a parachute environment, testing will ensure C&R are demonstrated in the relevant environment. Does the device inflate and maintain the required buoyancy for the amount of time required in the KPPs.

Question 2. Would the Army accept Reliability Prediction Analysis for the PFD that calculates Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF) in accordance with Task 203 of MIL-STD-785B; paragraph 2.4 of Task 100 of MIL-STD-756B? These methods provide system failure rates in parts per million hours and MTBF in thousands of hours.

The Army does not intend to evaluate Mean Time Between Failure (MTBF), but the offeror may submit test data as an appendix to the Technical Volume.

Question 3. When will the RFP be released?

Answer: The RFP has been delayed and is in the review process. We anticipate the RFP will be released the week of 4 May 2020.