Attachment_0002_-_Questions_and_Answers.pdf

Question # Reference Contractor Question Government Response

Proposal Preparation Instructions, Volume II – Factor 1: Technical Capability, pg. 48

Proposal Preparation Instructions for Volume II – Factor 1 indicate that, “The offeror shall describe how it will meet the requirement to provide the following personnel with the required qualifications: 1) One

(1) Site Lead IAW the Performance Work Statement (PWS) paragraphs 1.3.3.3 and 1.5.1; and 2) Three (3) Shift Supervisors IAW PWS paragraph 1.3.3.3 and 1.6.1. 3) 215 RSMA Guards IAW PWS paragraph 1.3.3.2 and 1.6.2.”

However, Section SF 1449, Item No. 0001 (pg. 3) indicates that, “The Contractor shall provide Three (3) US Expat Site Leads IAW PWS Paragraphs 1.3.3.3 and 1.6; Nine (9) US Expat Shift Supervisors IAW PWS Paragraphs 1.3.3.3 and 1.6.1; Two Hundred Fifteen (215) RSMA Guards IAW PWS Paragraphs 1.3.3.2 and 1.6.2.”

Neither the SF 1449 nor the Proposal Preparation Instructions includes a reference to the Manning requirements in Appendix A (pg. 42), which indicates that 3 site leads and 9 shift supervisors are required, and states that, “This does not take into account time off, shift schedules, or leave/R&R.”

Please clarify the number of personnel required at each site. Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212‐1, updated paragraph 5. Volume II – Factor 1: Technical Capability.

Appendix A – Manning Table, pg.

“FLIGHT LINE SECURITY: The contractor is responsible to ensure a 5:1 ratio at the flight line at each performance location.

Kandahar: Requirement for 5:1 contract to coalition civilian ratio at AAF base with a maximum of 260 civilians on‐ground at any given time.

MeS: Requirement for 5:1 contractor to coalition civilian ratio at AAF base with a maximum of 63 civilians on‐ground at any given time.

Kabul: Requirement for 5:1 contractor to coalition civilian ratio at AAF with a maximum of 343 civilians on‐ground at any given time.”

Are the specified maximum numbers of civilians considered “coalition civilians,” or does the maximum indicated for each location include other types of civilians as well, such as LNs, contractors, etc.?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix A ‐ Manning Table within the PWS. The term "coalition civilian" was changed to "security guard". The maximum number of maintenance/support contractors listed in the Appendix A ‐ Manning Table reflect the maximum amount of maintenance/support contractor that are on ground at any given time and need security guards in accordance with the 5:1 ratio.

Appendix A – Manning Table, pg.

These ratios do not appear consistent with the “SUGGESTED TOTALS” below. If offerors must ensure a 5:1 ratio of contractors to coalition civilians, then the RFP would require 5 contractor personnel for each coalition civilian. As an example, in Kandahar, that would appear to indicate that the successful contractor must ensure that no fewer than 1,300 contractor personnel are on‐ground at any given time, to meet the 5:1 contractor to coalition civilian ratio required. Please confirm the ratios and suggested totals. Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix A ‐ Manning Table within the PWS.

Appendix A – Manning Table, pg.

How many personnel are required to meet the requirement for the ECP at Panther Ramp (KAF)?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix A ‐ Manning Table within the PWS which states, "PANTHER RAMP (KAF): The Contractor shall be responsible for one (1) ECP to be manned twenty‐four (24) hours, seven (7) days a week with a minimum of two (2) personnel."

Appendix A – Manning Table, pg.

42 Of the 215 RSMA guards for contract, how many are assigned to Oqab?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix A ‐ Manning Table within the PWS which states, "FOB OQAB/AAF BASE: The Contractor shall be responsible for securing six (6) towers (requires a minimum of two (2) personnel at each tower) and two (2) Entry Control Points (ECPs) (one (1) ECP requires a minimum four (4) personnel and one (1) ECP requires minimum two (2) personnel) twenty‐four (24) hours, seven (7) days a week." Appendix A ‐ Manning Table also states,"Kabul: Requirement for 5:1 maintenance/support contractor to security guard ratio at AAF base with a maximum of 343 maintenance/support contractors on‐ ground at any given time between the hours of 0600 to 1800. Between the hours of 1800 to 0600, the contractor shall maintain the 5:1 ratio with a maximum of 100 maintenance/support contractors on‐ground. "

Appendix D – Contractor Furnished Property (CFP) List, pg.

44 “Tower Weapon – 3x light machine guns and 3x medium machine guns (M240 and M249 Squad Automatic Weapons or NATO equivalent for each)”

Please confirm that the requirement is 3x light machine guns per town, and 3x medium machine guns per tower, in six towers (according to Appendix A), for a total of 18x light machine guns and 18x medium machine guns. Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix C ‐ Government Furnished Services which includes Tower Weapons

– 3x light platform weapon and 3x medium platform weapon (M249 Squad Automatic Weapons and M240 or NATO equivalent for each). There will be either a single light platform weapon or a single medium platform weapon at each tower for a total of six (6) weapons.

Appendix D – Contractor Furnished Property (CFP) List, pg.

44 “Tower Weapon – 3x light machine guns and 3x medium machine guns (M240 and M249 Squad Automatic Weapons or NATO equivalent for each)”

“Tactical Radios – XTS Motorola 2500, Harris AN/PRC‐152, or AN/PRC‐148 IMBITR”

Please confirm that radios are not required for all 215 RSMA guards and all U.S. personnel. Please specify the number of personnel who require radios.

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix D ‐ Contractor Furnished Items List that reflects a Tactical Radio quantity of "per person on duty". The contractor will determine the number of personnel posted at any given time.

8 General Are any of the requirements included in the PWS currently being performed by military or contractor personnel? If so, which ones?

The current requirement is being performed in accordance with the Performance Work Statement under contract W52P1J‐11‐D‐ 0082 0K04.

9 General If any of the requirements included in the PWS are currently being performed by contractors, which requirements are they and who are the incumbent contractors?

The current requirement is being performed in accordance with the Performance Work Statement under contract W52P1J‐11‐D‐ 0082 0K04.

10 General If there is an incumbent workforce, is it made up of RSMA nationality personnel?

The current requirement is being performed in accordance with the Performance Work Statement under contract W52P1J‐11‐D‐ 0082 0K04.

11 License Can I bid on this project with this license or I have to have special license for this project???

In accordance with Table A‐1 of the solicitation for the general eligibility which lists the following requirements:

• Current AISA License (or equivalent)

• Current PSC License

• Evidence of compliance with DFARS 252.225‐7039

• Offeror Representation and Certifications

• List of ALL subcontractors or negative response and its current AISA license (or equivalent) and PSC license

Furthermore, the PWS paragraph 2.3.1 ‐ Business Licenses states, "Contractors and performing work under this contract shall possess a Business License from the Afghanistan Investment Support Agency (AISA) or equivalent agency. The Contractor shall also possess a PSC license issued by the Afghanistan Ministry of Interior (MoI). All contractors shall submit a current copy of their AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses in Dari and English with their proposal."

12 Para 1.3.3.1

Per para 1.3.3.1 is Afghanistan is considered a RSMA country?

Clarification: Companies may not hire any host country nationals guards because they are not considered

RSMA ?

Refer to the PWS paragraph 1.3.3.1 for the listed RSMA contributing nations. "The Contractor shall recruit employees which are defined in para 1.3.3.2 as “Resolute Support Mission – Afghanistan (RSMA) Contributing Counties” (RSMA), except for the Private Security Contract (PSC) leadership, to include the Site Lead and Shift Supervisors, who shall be US EXPATs (as defined in para 1.3.3.3). "

13 General The SF 1449 is marked UNRESTRICTED open to all ‐ But eligibility states restrictions against countries and host country nations. Please clarify

This requirement is Unrestricted as stated on the SF 1449. The hiring of guards shall be in accordance with 52.212‐1, paragraph 4 ‐ Volume I General Eligibility which states, "Offerors proposing to hire nationals of any other country besides those who are members of the RSMA will not be eligible for award. The RSMA countries are the United States, Italy, Germany, Georgia, Turkey, Romania, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Poland, Armenia, Mongolia, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Albania, Belgium, Bosnia‐Herzegovina, Norway, Macedonia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Spain, Montenegro, Austria, New Zealand, Portugal, Ukraine, Slovenia, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Luxembourg."

14 Clauses Other than being eligible for base access in JCCS and SAMs what other DFAR or clause may be used not identified in the RFP? Refer to the solicitation for the applicable FAR and DFAR clauses.

15 Base Access Contractors must maintain eligibility for base access. Aside from being registered in JCCS and SAMS what is required to maintain this? Refer to AFARS Clause 5152.225‐5916 ‐ Mandatory Eligibility for Installation Access within the solicitation for further detail.

16 PWS 2.3.9.3 and 9.1.2

Can the offeror assume USG mistakenly identified medium/light machine guns in this section? M249 is normally considered a LMG or automatic rifle and the M240 is normally considered a medium machine gun.

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for updated PWS paragraph 2.3.9.3 and 9.1.2, as the M249 is considered a light machine weapon system and the M240 is considered a medium machine weapon system.

Appendix A – Manning Table, pg.

When the USG states “requirement for 5:1 contractor to coalition civilian ratio” can we assume you actually mean “5:1 coalition civilian to contractor ratio?” The provided ration conflicts with the “suggested totals” paragraph immediately below the ratios. Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix A ‐ Manning Table within the PWS.

18 PWS 1.5

What is the minimum requirements to speak, read and write English and what standard is the government going to use to measure and evaluate contractor employees’ English abilities?

In accordance with paragraph 1.5 ‐ Language Requirement of the PWS, "Contractor shall employ only persons able to speak, read, write and understand English. Each employee’s ability to communicate in English will facilitate reporting via the means of communication listed above. The Contractor shall only employ individuals able to report a situation report, or SITREP, in English which accurately expresses the required tactical information."

19 PWS 2.3.4.3

This section requires the contractor to submit arming requests no less than 60 days prior to any armed personnel’s ‘full performance on the contract.’ Given the sixty day mobilization requirement (1.3.1) and the CRC requirement (8.2.1), this appears to preclude anyone but the incumbent from being awarded this contract. Will USG consider waiving this requirement or modifying the timeline too allow for sufficient time for non‐incumbent offerors to accomplish this task?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 2.3.4.3 which states, "Exception: during mobilization period, arming requests shall be submitted into CAAMS prior to arrival at CRC for EXPATS and prior to departure to Afghanistan for RSMA Guards."

ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212‐1, Section 1, General Eligibility

The requirement for EXACTLY matching names on AISA, PSC and Offerors name is extremely restrictive when the offeror’s name represents their legal operating entity in the country of performance (Afghanistan) vs. their registered company name in the U.S. These names are similar but may have variations to show it is the Afghanistan entity. For example, a company may be named [Name Withheld, Inc.] in the U.S. but their Afghanistan entity may be [Name Withheld, Ltd.]. Is this acceptable for meeting the Government’s requirement?

No, the Government will not accept differing company names. In accordance with Addendum 52.212‐1, paragraph 1 of the solicitation, "The name on the AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses must match the name of the offeror or subcontractor EXACTLY.

The Government will not accept offers in which the offeror proposes to subcontract with another PSC."

21 PWS 3.1.1 Will the Government be issuing a DD‐254 as part of this procurement?

In accordance with PWS Paragraph 3.1.1, following a successful investigation by the Defense Security Services (DSS) the Department of Defense (DoD) will issue the appropriate Facilities Clearance License DD254 to the awardee.

22 PWS 3.1.2

Are contractors required to submit proof of their US Secret Facilities Security Clearance with their proposals? No, proof of a U.S. Secret Facility Clearance is not required to be submitted with your proposal.

23 PWS 2.3.9

What specific weapons will be considered acceptable “equivalent” alternative weapon platforms to the M4 and M9?

There are multiple different types of NATO equivalents. Refer to the PWS paragraph 2.3.9 ‐ Weapons and Weapons Training, which states, "The contractor shall provide the following serviceable and fully functioning items to each guard: one (1) long barreled high caliber weapon (i.e. M‐16 rifle/M‐4 carbine or NATO equivalent) and one (1) 9mm pistol (i.e. M9 or NATO equivalent), both with enough magazines for a basic combat load. Basic load for a rifle shall be 210 rounds (7 magazines for an M4) and for a pistol its 45 rounds (3 magazines)."

24 Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook

Does the Government intend that the “TOTAL Base Period” total price include twice the security labor amount or only the unit price from cell F6?

Refer to the updated Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook provided in Amendment 0004.

25 Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook Should the unit prices in cells F3, F4, and F5 be excluded from the “TOTAL Base Period” calculation in F11, or are they meant to be options?

Cell F6 contains a formula, calculating the total of CLIN 0001 to include Security Guards, Shift Supervisors, and Site Leads. The total of CLIN 0001 is calculated within the "TOTAL Base Period". Refer to the updated Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook provided in Amendment 0004.

26 Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook Because of solicitation requirements for providing vehicles, weapons, etc., will the Government be providing a CLIN for capturing Other Direct Costs? No, the Government will not include an extra CLIN in the Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook for Other Direct Costs.

27 PWS 1.32 Performance Locations Will the government provide transportation to and from FOB Oqab, HKIA AAF Base, KAF, and MeS?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 8.2.3 which states, "Once in country, RSMA Guards are authorized to utilize MILAIR flights to travel to the performance location. U.S. EXPATS traveling from CRC are authorized to utilize MILAIR flights to get to the appropriate in‐country performance location." Furthermore, PWS paragraph 9.5 ‐ Up‐Armored Non‐ Tactical Vehicles which states, "The contractor shall provide up‐armored Non‐tactical Vehicles (NTV) for movement/transport of guards to the work site/post/position, for use on this contract with adequate number of vehicles to transport contractors to/from work without mission delay prior to reaching FOC."

28 PWS 1.3.3.3

Can the government specify the exact type of Non‐Lethal Weapons (NLW) that is recommended by coalition forces?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 1.3.3.3 ‐ U.S. EXPAT, as the Non‐Lethal Weapons (NLW) requirement was deleted.

29 PWS 1.6

Does the government have a mandated resume form that must be used for submittal of all Key Personnel? No, the Government does not have a mandated resume form that the Contractor must utilize.

30 PWS 2.3.9.2

Will the contractor be responsible for providing weapons trainers for all weapon qualifications as it relates to the guard force?

If so, how and where are we to include the price for this position/person?

In accordance with PWS paragraph 2.3.9.1, "Armed contractors shall be required to be qualified operators of their assigned weapon(s) prior to arrival in country. Weapons training shall be documented on weapons qualification forms IAW Attachment 3 to USFOR‐A 16‐143. Non‐U.S. and Non – Standard weapons shall be requested IAW Attachment 2 to USAFOR‐A 16‐143." Therefore, the Government will not provide weapons training.

In accordance with ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212‐1, paragraph 7 Volume IV ‐ Factor 3: Price, "The offeror shall complete the proposed unit and extended prices in the Pricing Workbook (Attachment 1 – Pricing Workbook). The offeror shall complete Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) on the SF 1449. The offeror shall ensure that the “Unit Price” and “Amount” inserted onto the SF 1449 are consistent with the prices in its Attachment 1. The offeror shall ensure that prices are included for all CLINs. The Government reserves the right to require the submission of Other Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data as is deemed necessary in order to determine a fair and reasonable price. If the offeror does not separately price the Contract Manpower Reporting CLIN 0003, the offeror shall insert “NSP” in Attachment 1 and the SF 1449 for this CLIN. "

31 PWS 2.3.10 Will the government provide armorer support for the contractor? The Government will not provide armorer support for the contractor.

32 PWS 3.1

How long does the government project candidates to be fully processed for security clearances assuming it may have lapsed?

In accordance with the PWS paragraph 3.1.1 ‐ Personal Security Clearance and Background Checks, "The work performed by the Site lead and Shift Supervisors shall involve the Contractor having access to and/or the potential safeguarding of classified information/material and shall require a US Secret clearance; only after the appropriate clearance is gained will the Contractor be granted access to the SIPRNET and NIPRNET. As required, the security policies, procedures, and requirements stipulated by the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and DoD 5220.22‐M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) (28 February 06) and supplements thereto are applicable to include the following security requirements in Paragraphs 3.1.1 through 3.1.4, and/or guidance whenever contract performance will occur on a DoD installation or within a DoD‐controlled facility or activity."

33 PWS 3.1 Can a candidate deploy to the task order area with an interim security clearance?

A candidate may not deploy with an interim security clearance. In accordance with the PWS paragraph 1.3.3.3 ‐ U.S. EXPAT, "Contract leadership must be a citizen of the United States, maintain an active U.S. Secret Level Security Clearance and meet, at a minimum, the following requirements."

34 PWS 7.1 Shift Hours Is the contractor required to provide at least one day off every seven days?

Refer to solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 1.3.3.2 ‐ RSMA Guards and 1.3.3.3 ‐ U.S. EXPAT, "Normal work hour shifts are eight (8) hours, six (6) days a week, plus time for shift brief, post and relief, and any required training recertification. Contractor may work up to seventy‐two (72) hours per week, as directed by the KO or Administrative Contracting Officer (ACO)."

PWS 12.3.3

Anti‐Terrorism Level 1 Web Based Training

Will the government provide this training at the Fort Bliss, CRC location?

In accordance with paragraph 8.2.1, "For U.S. citizens, mobilization includes travel to the Government approved CONUS Replacement Center (CRC) at Fort Bliss, Texas from an individual’s home of record prior to deployment to location of base defined at contract award." This web based course will be taken at CRC.

36 PWS 12.3.4 iWatch Training – Will the government provide this training at the Fort Bliss, CRC location?

In accordance with paragraph 8.2.1, "For U.S. citizens, mobilization includes travel to the Government approved CONUS Replacement Center (CRC) at Fort Bliss, Texas from an individual’s home of record prior to deployment to location of base defined at contract award." This web based course will be taken at CRC.

PWS 12.3.5

OPSEC Training

Will the government provide this training at the Fort Bliss, CRC location?

In accordance with paragraph 8.2.1, "For U.S. citizens, mobilization includes travel to the Government approved CONUS Replacement Center (CRC) at Fort Bliss, Texas from an individual’s home of record prior to deployment to location of base defined at contract award." This web based course will be taken at CRC.

W91B4N‐18‐R‐8010, RFP para. 9.5, Reference is made to Non‐tactical Up‐Armored Vehicles. Can you please provide the number of vehicles that will be required for the contract?

Refer to solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix D ‐ Contractor Furnished Property (CFP) List within the PWS which states, "Up‐Armored Non‐tactical Vehicles – There will be a minimum of 1 NTV per 10 Contractors."

39 Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook

The Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook "Contract Totals" sheet, calculates the total for CLIN 0002, 0003, and 0004 based on 10 months versus 1 each or 1 lot as shown in the SF1449 Schedule B. The "Base Period" sheet calculates CLIN 0002 based on 10 months versus 1 each. As a result the total amount calculates incorrectly in both tabs of Attachment 1. Refer to solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook.

40 Volume I ‐ General Eligibility

Is this open to local Afghan company’s who do not posse a US license per belowPer below:

local Afghans may not be used?

Volume I ‐ General Eligibility.

Offerors proposing to hire nationals of any other country besides those who are members of the RSMA will not be eligible for award. These countries include the United States, Italy, Germany, Georgia, Turkey, Romania, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Poland, Armenia, Mongolia, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Albania, Belgium, Bosnia‐Herzegovina, Norway, Macedonia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Spain, Montenegro, Austria, New Zealand, Portugal, Ukraine, Slovenia, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Luxembourg.

A local Afghan company may propose on solicitation W91B4N‐18‐R‐8018. In accordance with 52.212‐1, paragraph 4 ‐ Volume I General Eligibility, "Offerors proposing to hire nationals of any other country besides those who are members of the RSMA will not be eligible for award. These countries include the United States, Italy, Germany, Georgia, Turkey, Romania, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Poland, Armenia, Mongolia, Netherlands, Denmark, Croatia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Hungary, Albania, Belgium, Bosnia‐ Herzegovina, Norway, Macedonia, Slovakia, Finland, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania, Spain, Montenegro, Austria, New Zealand, Portugal, Ukraine, Slovenia, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Luxembourg."

41 Period of Performance

How many months is the base year period? InPWS paragraph 1.3.1 it’s mentioned that the base period is 1 year, however inCLIN: 0001 & 0002 the contractor is required to price for 10 months. Can youplease clarify this?

The base year period includes twelve (12) calendar months. In accordance with PWS paragraph 1.3.1, "Base Period: One (1) year period. The periods of performance are provided in the contract schedule. This requirement shall have a sixty (60) day mobilization period. The contractor must be at Full Operational Capacity (FOC) at the end of the mobilization period."

42 CLIN 0003 Do we need to submit price for CLIN: 0003?

Refer to ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212‐1, paragraph 7. Volume IV – Factor 3: Price, which states, "If the offeror does not separately price the Contract Manpower Reporting CLIN 0003, the offeror shall insert “NSP” in Attachment 1 and the SF 1449 for this CLIN."

43 General We are a local company having an active AISA license only can we subcontract a Private Security Company (PSC) in order to be eligible to bid on this contract?

No. In accordance with the Solicitation Addendum 52.212‐1, Paragraph 1, "Offeror[s] responding to this solicitation shall submit a valid and current Afghanistan Investment Support Agency (AISA)(or equivalent) and PSC licenses at the time of proposal submission including those of any subcontractor."

44 Joint Venture We are a local company and would like to make a joint venture agreement with a PSC company, can we submit a joint venture agreement and a joint venture proposal for this contract?

Yes; however, as stated in the Solicitation, Addendum 52.212‐1 Paragraph 1, "The name on the AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses must match the name of the offeror or subcontractor EXACTLY. The Government will not accept offers in which the offeror proposes to subcontract with another PSC. The Government will not accept offers from offerors whose AISA license is in an industry classification unrelated to security contracting."

45 Joint Venture

If we submit a joint venture proposal with a PSC company for this contract, do we need to provide a separate joint venture business license from government of Afghanistan or our two different licenses from AISA and MOI works best for this contract?

As stated in the Solicitation, Addendum 52.212‐1 Paragraph 1, "The name on the AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses must match the name of the offeror or subcontractor EXACTLY. The Government will not accept offers in which the offeror proposes to subcontract with another PSC. The Government will not accept offers from offerors whose AISA license is in an industry classification unrelated to security contracting."

46 License We are a local company having an active AISA license only, can we subcontract a Private Security Company (PSC) in order to be eligible to bid on this contract?

In accordance with PWS paragraph 2.3.1, "The Contractor shall also possess a Private Security Company (PSC) license issued by the Afghanistan Ministry of Interior (MoI). All contractors shall submit a current copy of their AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses in Dari and English with their proposal."

47 Joint Venture We are a local company and would like to make a joint venture agreement with a PSC company, can we submit a joint venture agreement and a joint venture proposal for this contract?

As stated in the Solicitation, Addendum 52.212‐1 Paragraph 1, "The name on the AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses must match the name of the offeror or subcontractor EXACTLY. The Government will not accept offers in which the offeror proposes to subcontract with another PSC. The Government will not accept offers from offerors whose AISA license is in an industry classification unrelated to security contracting."

48 General Is there any possibility to extend the deadline period Please refer to the Federal Business Opportunities website for the posted Amendments.

49 License Can we bid on this contract if we have only AISA lisence?

In accordance with PWS paragraph 2.3.1, "The Contractor shall also possess a Private Security Company (PSC) license issued by the Afghanistan Ministry of Interior (MoI). All contractors shall submit a current copy of their AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses in Dari and English with their proposal."

50 Page 6, Para 1.3 How will the contractor personnel be transported upon arrival in theater? Will contractor personnel have access to MILAIR for intratheater transportation?

Refer to solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 8.2.3 which states, "Once in country, RSMA Guards are authorized to utilize MILAIR flights to travel to the performance location. U.S. EXPATS traveling from CRC are authorized to utilize MILAIR flights to get to the appropriate in‐country performance location. "

Page 7, Para 1.3.1. States that mobilization is 60 days

Page 26, Para 8.1. Contractor is required to achieve initial operating capability NLT 1 June and full operational capability shall be achieved NLT 1 August 2018 Will the Government confirm the mobilization timeline and schedule as these sections specify differing mobilization timelines.

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 8.1 ‐ Operational Capability which state, "The contractor is required to achieve full Operational Capability (FOC) shall be achieved NLT the completion of the 60 day mobilization period." In accordance with PWS paragraph 1.3.1, the mobilization period will remain sixty (60) days.

Page 14, Para 2.3.4.3 states that Arming Packets should be submitted 60 days prior to the FOC date.

Based on section 2.6.3 the contractor would have to submit Arming Requests on award and does not take into account recruitment, training for all personnel, and bio metric enrollment for Non U.S. RSMA personnel, prior to submission of the arming request.

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 2.3.4.3 which states, "Exception: during mobilization period, arming requests shall be submitted into CAAMS prior to arrival at CRC for EXPATS and prior to departure to Afghanistan for RSMA Guards."

53 Page 15, Para 2.3.5

Where will biometric enrollment for Non U.S. personnel take place?

If Biometric enrollment takes place in country, and has to take place prior to submission of arming request, will the Government house RSMA personnel for the period of sixty days while waiting for arming authorization?

Will the Government consider sending a biometric enrollment team to the RSMA training location?

Biometrics is a universal system, therefore, enrollment can take place at any point while the employee is in‐country. The United States Government (USG) will not send a "biometrics enrollment team," to the RSMA training location. The Contractor will ensure enrollment takes place, prior to the arming process, either at HKIA, FOB OQAB, BAF or at a Government facility convenient for the contractor. The USG will house personnel for as long as the arming process takes; however, the Contractor will be held to the manning requirements outlined in para 4.1 and Appendix A of the PWS.

Page 18, Para 2.3.10 Ammunition Supply Is the Government providing crew served weapon ammunition?

The Government will provide crew served weapon ammunition. Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 10.3.4 which states, "The U.S. Government will furnish a total of six (6) belt fed, light and medium machine guns (ex.

M240, M249 or NATO equivalent) with all associated components and basic issue items, to include ammunition, needed to operate them in FOB OQAB towers."

55 Page 18, Para 2.3.12 Can the USG clarify define what is included with other operational equipment to perform facility protective services?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 2.3.12 ‐ Individual Equipment, the operational equipment to perform facility protective services while on duty has been deleted.

56 Page 22, Para 4.1 Should contractors assume that the Government will monitor the 5:1 ratio and issue mods to meet the required guard levels? The contractors shall assume the Government will monitor the 5:1 ration and issue modifications to meet the required guard level.

Page 26, Para 8.2.3 Contractor responsible for scheduling all MILAIR flights departing from each RSMA Guards HOR.

Please confirm that Government will provide MILAIR flights for RSMA personnel, and that the Government does not want the contractor to provide commercial air from the RSMA HOR to Afghanistan.

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 8.2.3 which states, "RSMA Guards are required to take commercial flights departing from each RSMA Guard’s home of record into Afghanistan."

58 Page 26, Para 8.2.3

In regards to the deployment of Non‐US personnel to their commercial point of entry into Afghanistan, will the Government assist in transferring arrivals from the commercial side of the airport to the USG/NATO section of the airport? This will shorten the mobilization timeframe to meet the requested mobilization date.

The Government will not assist in transferring arrivals from the commercial side of the airport to the USG/NATO section of the airport.

59 Page 26, Para 8.2.5 Can the USG clarify that this does not apply to crew‐served weapons?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 2.3.9.3.1 which states, "The contractor shall coordinate with the COR to meet all Crew Served weapons qualifications within the first thirty (30) days of the mobilization period."

60 Page 28, Para 9.1.2

The Directorate of Defense Controls will not allow contractors to export belt fed weapons, unless the weapons become Government Property at the end of the contract. Will the Government provide the supporting documentation required for the purchase of crew‐served weapons required to legally export these weapons?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 10.3.4 which states, "The U.S. Government will furnish a total of six (6) belt fed, light and medium machine guns (ex. M240, M249 or NATO equivalent) with all associated components and basic issue items, to include ammunition, needed to operate them in FOB OQAB towers."

61 Page 29, Para 9.5 Will the Government specify a minimum protection standard for the up‐armored vehicles? An example being EN11063 level B6.

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated PWS paragraph 9.5 ‐ Up‐Armored Non‐Tactical Vehicles which states, "These vehicles shall be up‐armed capable of withstanding 7.62 caliber bullet and operate on diesel and gasoline."

62 Page 35, Para 13 Can the USG clarify the requirement for AARP packet submission by the contractor? Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for uploaded USFOR‐A FRAGO 16‐143 that contains attachments.

63 Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook

Regarding CLIN 0004 MOB/DeMOB, Mobilization costs occur at the beginning of the performance period while Demobilization costs occur at the end of the performance period. In an effort to bill in a timely fashion, would the government split MOB and Demob into separate CLINs? Otherwise, would the government allow partial billing?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated CLIN structure within the SF 1449 continuation sheet and the Attachment 1 ‐ Pricing Workbook.

Appendix A – Manning Table, pg.

The Government requires 199 personnel on site to meet 24/7 staffing and states that 215 RSMA personnel accounts for days off, leave etc. Will the Government provide the breakdown to reach the figure of 215? Does this factor in one day off per week, leave/ R&R, sick, required training days?

Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix A ‐ Manning Table, which does not factor in one day off per week, leave/ R&R, sick, or required training days.

Appendix – D Contractor Furnished Property List

The Government requires a minimum of 1 NTV per 10 contractors (minimum 12 NTVs). Based on the requirement in Appendix A for 199 personnel on post, should the minimum requirement be 20 vehicles? Refer to Solicitation Amendment 0004 for the updated Appendix D ‐ Contractor Furnished Property (CFP) List.

66 Page 7, Para 1.3.1

The Governments timeline for mobilization does not take into account a number of contractual and legal requirements relating to arming authorizations and export controls/ trade compliance. Arming Authorization and Biometric enrollment. Section 2.6.3 of the PWS states that the contractor shall submit the arming authorization 60 days prior to an individual standing post. To submit the Arming Request non U.S. personnel must be biometrically enrolled. Based on these timelines a significant amount of the force would have to qualify on their weapon, undertake biometrical enrollment and submit their arming requires prior to a contract award. As we understand this is not procedurally possible within the Government, and it is not commercially viable for the contractor.

To provide weapons, ammunition, sensitive items and defense related training for non U.S. personnel on the program, the successful contractor will have to acquire export licenses and/ or End User Certificates (EUC) to ship these items to Afghanistan. The U.S., and other weapon manufacturing countries, require proof that the contractor has been awarded a contract and has a legitimate requirement for these weapons. The processing of these licenses and permits takes time. For instance, an application for a U.S.

export license is taking over 40 days to receive approval and can only be submitted after award.

Based on the constraints above will the Government reconsider the mobilization period?

If not, will the Government consider sending a biometric enrollment team to the contractors training location and expedite the arming authorization process?

The Government will not change mobilization timelines. Refer to PWS paragraph 2.3.4.3 which states, "Exception: during mobilization period, arming requests shall be submitted into CAAMS prior to arrival at CRC for EXPATS and prior to departure to Afghanistan for RSMA Guards."

67 General Will answers to RFP questions be provided before the proposal due date?

Yes, the RFP questions will be provided before the proposal due date. In accordance with solicitation ADDENDUM TO FAR 52.212‐1 paragraph e which states, "Answers to questions received will publically posted via a Solicitation Amendment. "

68 General Is there a chance that the proposal due date may be extended? Please refer to the Federal Business Opportunities website for the posted Amendments.

69 General

My question is regarding Armed Security Guards, I have a joint License and certificate by name of [Name witheld] that is active in USA, can we participate in this Solicitation W91B4N‐18‐R‐8018.

Yes, any company may participate in this Solicitation; however, as stated in the Solicitation, Addendum 52.212‐1 Paragraph 1, "The name on the AISA (or equivalent) and PSC licenses must match the name of the offeror or subcontractor EXACTLY. The Government will not accept offers in which the offeror proposes to subcontract with another PSC. The Government will not accept offers from offerors whose AISA license is in an industry classification unrelated to security contracting."

Good morning ladies my name is XXXXXXXXXX the CEO/ Owner of XXXXXXXXX and I'm email you today to challenge the qualification that the Contracting Officer has published for any company to qualify for this security contracts. I read the Status of Forces agreement between the United States of America and the Aghan Government and it says nothing in that agreement about U.S Contractors needing Private Security Contract license to operate on U.S Contracts in Afghanistan. I have included below the qualification that has been posted to FBO on every security contract for your review. The agreement states that U.S Contractors don"t even need a license from the MOI as long as they are in country in support the U.S Military Operation nor does the Afghan Government issue any Arming Authority to Contractors that is issued by the U.S Commanders on the ground. The requirement per the agreement U.S Contractors in country to support the U.S Military only have to report to the Army via the SPOT reporting portal.

Basically every qualification that the Contracting Office has published is incorrect. I would like an answer to my inquiry by the Contracting Officer we would like to hear from your office before we move up the Chain of Command of the U.S Military. Thank you for your time and we look forward to your reply.

Concerns were raised as to the need for companies proposing on W91B4N‐18‐R‐8018 to possess private security company (PSC) licenses in order to perform the subject contract. Possession of a PSC license is required.

The Bilateral Security Agreement [BSA] between the United States and The Government Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA), as well as the Status of Forces Agreement [SOFA] between the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and GIRoA both acknowledge that, U.S/NATO contractors are subject to registration in Afghanistan. BSA, Art. 11, para. 2; SOFA, Art. 9, para. 2. While both the BSA and SOFA provide “[U.S./NATO] contractors shall otherwise be exempt from all other Afghan licenses and similar requirements in relation to their entry into or execution of contracts and subcontracts with or on behalf of [U.S./NATO] Forces." BSA, Art. 11, para. 2;

SOFA, Art. 9, para. 2. Both documents clearly indicate that, “[U.S./NATO] Contractors performing security services in Afghanistan are subject to all relevant requirements of Afghan laws and regulations.” BSA, Art. 14, para. 3; SOFA, Art. 12, para. 3. This includes those requirements established in “Procedure for Regulating Activities of Private Security Companies in Afghanistan”, published February 2008 by the Ministry of Interior, requiring that private security companies will be licensed and registered. This is reinforced by Presidential Decree 66 [PD66], Concerning the Authorization of Security Contracts with Private Security Companies, which states “the Ministry of Interior is tasked to take measures concerning the issuance and renewal of the licenses for the limited Private Security Companies listed and approved by the Ministry of Interior, based on related laws and procedures.” PD66, Art. 1, para. 6.

The requirement that Private Security Contractors and their employees follow Afghan law includes, when appropriate, PSC’s seeking and receiving individual Afghan Weapons Permits for each armed employee from the Ministry of Interior.

Thus, all provisions of Solicitation # W91B4N‐18‐R‐8018 requiring the licensing and registration of offerors as PSCs in order to perform the solicited work are correct. Offerors will be required to be licensed as PSCs in order to receive award.