Cessna 208 Caravan Ex Completion Upgrades

The Texas Department of Public Safety is requesting proposals for completion upgrades to a Cessna 208 Caravan EX law enforcement aircraft under RFP 405-26R0027111, with responses due by 5:00 p.m. Central Time on September 24, 2026 and anticipated award on September 25, 2026. The respondent must be an FAA repair station and must complete or manage at least six law enforcement-equipped aircraft within the past three years, with preference for similarly equipped fixed-wing aircraft. HUBZone subcontracting plan participation is required.

The scope encompasses aircraft completion, structural modifications, avionics installation, and integration of law enforcement mission equipment including a Wescam MX15HDi thermal imager, Shotover Navigation ARS Oscar mission mapping system, dual 17-inch video monitors, Technisonic multi-band transceiver, Garmin GTR205 communication radio, HD digital recording systems, eight Bose A30 headsets, eight Team Wendy helmets with integrated audio, six Aeronox E3 aviation night-vision goggles, two auxiliary power units, one aircraft electric tug, and two portable power packs. All equipment must be new. The contractor must conduct a pre-design review meeting within 30 days of purchase order issuance, obtain Special Airworthiness Certification for day and night visual flight rules operations, and deliver comprehensive FAA documentation and schematics. Preferred delivery is 100 working days from award. All work must be performed at the contractor's facility unless TXDPS approves otherwise. The contractor bears all aircraft-related costs and liability during possession except for damages from TXDPS pilot mishaps unrelated to contractor work.

The initial contract term runs from the effective date through August 31, 2027, with TXDPS retaining the right to extend for an additional six months. Evaluation weighs technical requirements at 50 points, vendor performance indicators including past performance and financial resources at 40 points, and cost at 10 points. Respondents must provide detailed pricing on a mandatory pricing schedule covering all costs, fees, licenses, and expenses, and must submit financial documentation, certifications, and evidence of insurance. Questions are due by September 15, 2026, with answers anticipated by September 16. Responses may be submitted via email to DPS_Solicit_Response@dps.texas.gov or through the optional DPS Online Bid Room portal.