NATO Improved Linke Eleven (NILE) In-Service Support (ISS) Phase Block Cycle Updates and Engineering/Management Services

The Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR), on behalf of the NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE) Nations (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, and US), have a requirement for In-Service Support (ISS) of the individual nations' Link 22 implementation programs. Major areas of support include: continued Modification, Maintenance, and Configuration Control of the NATO Improved Link Eleven (NILE) IT Products including: the System Network Controller (SNC) Software, the NILE Reference System (NRS) software and Hardware, and associated documentation. SNC/NRS enhancements due to potential new system capabilities (such as new waveforms) implementation are also expected to be execute under this contract. The impact evaluation of software changes to NILE IT Products (executed under the provisions of this contract) on the Multi-Link System Test and Training Tool (MLST3) is an additional contract requirement. A delivery of an updated baseline, labeled "Block Cycle" as a result of combined analysis, design and implementation activities may be required every two contractual years. Furthermore engineering and project management services are also required as part of this contract. Engineering support will include (1) execution of interoperability testing between Link 22 system devices developed by different vendors and evaluation of results and (2) providing expertise to the NILE PMW or to the Government committed to maintain proper system level integration and compatibility throughout the concurrent MLLC Full Development (FD) effort. Program management support will include establishment of an effective project management structure to oversee execution of tasks directed by this PWS and to provide life cycle support and configuration management of the IT Products delivered.

Based on the results of market research, this procurement will not be a small business set aside. This requirement limits competition to prime and first-tier subcontractors from the seven (7) NILE nations. The estimated maximum FTE equivalent based on 2,080 hours per work-year is between 9-14 FTEs per year. SPAWAR intends to issue a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract with a base year, two one-year options, and two one-year award terms, for a total possible period of performance of five years. The Request For Proposal (RFP) is expected be issued in January 2013 with an anticipated award date late in July 2013.

Prospective offerors are encouraged to subscribe to this solicitation, N00039-13- R-0010 at the SPAWAR link below. Notification of the subsequent release of other documents will be made automatically to subscribers. A list of subscribers to this solicitation is available on the SPAWAR e-commerce site. A draft Performance Work Statement (PWS) is also attached at this website.