HH-60W Link-16 Advanced Capability Modernization

The Department of the Air Force Materiel Command Lifecycle Management Center at Robins Air Force Base is conducting market research to identify contractors capable of upgrading the HH-60W helicopter fleet by replacing the existing Link-16 TacNet Tactical Radio (TTR) with the KOR-24A Small Tactical Terminal (STT). The primary objective is to address Advanced Capability (AC) and Cryptographic Modernization (CM) requirements, as the current TTR cannot support these critical updates and will result in aircraft being denied access to the Link-16 network with significant operational limitations. The scope of work encompasses Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE), system integration including physical and electrical design, functional and software compatibility verification in a Software Integration Lab, development of a complete Technical Data Package (TDP) and Time Compliance Technical Order (TCTO), manufacturing and delivery of prototype and production kits, comprehensive verification and testing, program management including subcontractor oversight and Diminishing Manufacturing Sources/Material Shortages (DMS/MS) resolution, and cybersecurity documentation. Respondents must demonstrate capabilities across general operations, hardware production, software development, repair and support, and commerciality, and must provide business information including CAGE Code and business classification status. The deadline for submissions via email is 5:00 pm EDT on March 13, 2026, and this market research effort does not guarantee future contract awards or reimburse submission expenses.

This Pre-Solicitation Notice does not include a set-aside designation and does not identify any incumbent contractors or current contract holders. No specific award value or budget range has been disclosed in the market research materials. The procurement involves the production and delivery of two trial installation kits and ninety-eight production kits to support a total of 100 HH-60W aircraft, indicating the substantial scope of the modernization effort across the entire fleet. The applicability of the NAICS category 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing) and PSC category 5821 (Radio And Television Communication Equipment, Airborne) indicates that the government is seeking contractors with expertise in aerospace equipment manufacturing and airborne communications systems. While this is a Sources Sought announcement for informational and market research purposes only, participation enables contractors to position themselves for future solicitation opportunities related to this significant modernization program.