Field programmable gate array for improved performance on the radar display computer

The NAWCWD China Lake, CA intends to procure the field programmable gate array firmware update for the radar display computer, on an other than full and open competition basis under the authority of FAR 6.302, “Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency need.” The intended source is GE Avation Systems, LLC.

The AV-8B is a Vertical Short-Take-Off and Landing (VSTOL) aircraft used by the United States Marine Corps (USMC) primarily for Close Air Support (CAS) of ground troops.  The AV-8B uses a Radar Display Computer (RDC) which also acts as the back-up Mission Computer. The RDC processes all crew station display functions in the AV-8B Harrier. General Electric Aviation, LLC (GEAS) is the only source that can provide this since they acquired Smiths Aerospace, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the RDC. The OEM supplier, provided RDC units under contract N00019-13-D-0018. To remain relevant in the current combat environment, AV-8B RDC hardware and software must work together to accurately display all symbols on the Heads Up Display (HUD) and Multi-Purpose Color Displays (MPCD) required for effective operation and mission prosecution. The RDC is unable to display all symbols when symbol intense formats are attempted to be displayed. This display limitation prevents required information from being displayed to the pilot that limits the combat effectiveness and safe operation of the AV-8B Harrier.

This notice of intent is NOT a request for competitive proposals; however, any firm believing it can fulfill the requirement identified above may submit a written response to be received at the Contracting Office no later than 15 days after the date of publication of this notice, which shall be considered by the agency.  The written response shall reference solicitation number N6893622R0033 and provide a capability statement that clearly indicates the firm’s experience, assets, background, and ability to perform the required work without compromising the quality, accuracy, reliability, and schedule.

The solicitation or Request for Proposal (RFP) will be posted in Contract Opportunities on the SAM website at https://sam.gov/ on or about 15 July 2022.   

Interested firms must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database at https://sam.gov/ to start doing business with the federal government.  

Written responses to this notice shall be submitted by e-mail to the point(s) of contact listed below no later than 15 days from this notice date. E-mail responses shall be received at this office no later than 3:00 P.M. Pacific Standard Time on 12 July 2022 and reference this RFP number on both the e-mail subject line as well as on all enclosed documents. Information and materials submitted in response to this request WILL NOT be returned. Classified material SHALL NOT be submitted.