Naval Air Warfare Center AD, Contracts Dept. Code 233, Bldg 129-2, Lakehurst, NJ 08733-5083.

17 -- ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY LAUNCH SYSTEM (ALTS) SOL N68335-97-RFI-714 DUE 072397 POC Dianne Mount Contract Specialist Code 213DM, (732) 323-2903. The Naval Air Systems Command is seeking sources for the design, development, manufacture, integration, test and support of an advanced technology aircraft launch system (catapult). A dual path programmatic approach is being contemplated: an Advanced Technology Launch System (ALTS) program, which develop a completely new launch system, and an Advanced Technology Catapult Modification (ATCM) program which will modify the current generation of steam catapults. A description of the desired technical capabilities for each approach is synopsized below. Pursuant to this source sought announcement, it is anticipated that the ALTS or ATCM program will eventually be conducted as multi-phase acquisition program, consisting of a Program Definition and Risk Reduction Phase (PDRR), Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) Phase, followed by a Production Phase. A formal down select process will be exercised at the end of the PDRR phase to select the EMD and production phase technologies. All prospective ATLS and ACTM designs should be capable of launching present and future naval fixed wing aircraft from the deck of an aircraft carrier. Design drivers for both launchers are: independence from propulsion plant steam, reduced manning, reduced life cycle cost, improved operational availability, and reduced size and weight when compared to the current system catapults. The performance goals for the ATLS and the ATCM are: 90,000,000 ft-lbs of energy capability, an end speed range between 55 and 180 knots, a peak to mean acceleration of 1.05 for high energy aircraft launches and a cycle time of 45 seconds. For the ATLS, the Navy desires the contractor to design and build a full scale, half length power stroke prototype system; integrate it into a land based site of NAWC Lakehurst; and demonstrate threshold performance levels by the end of FY-01. During the PDRR phase, the goal is to demonstrate an ATLS that is capable of operating independently of the host platform's propulsion plant. If key performance issues have been successfully addressed, the program will be considered for transition to EMD phase using a full scale, full length system beginning in FY-02 and ending in FY-06. Production contract award is anticipated in FY07 with catapult deliveries in FY10 consisting of 2 to 4 production units for installation on the CVX-78. For the ATCM, the PDRR effort will be conducted in two phases. The goal of phase 1 is to demonstrate, by the end of the first quarter FY-00, propulsion plant steam independence by modifying the existing NAWCADLKE TC13 MOD 0 test site to operate independently of the catapult steam plant. The contractor will design, develop, install and demonstrate modifications which allow the catapult to repeatedly launch dead loads representing the full range of present and planned naval aircraft. Phase II of the PDRR will demonstrate an integrated, enhanced control system for the ATCM which improves performance and reduces manning and any additional modifications which improve the overall system reliability, maintainability and availability over current steam catapult threshold values by the end of FY-01. If key performance issues have been successfully addressed, the program will be considered for transition to EMD phase (starts/ends FY02-FY06). Production contract award is anticipated in FY07 with catapult deliveries in FY10 consisting of 2-4 production units for the CVX-78. The Navy will host an industry brief on 11 Aug 97 and, if necessary, 12 Aug 97 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm to discuss ATLS/ATCM program goals, and answer questions. This meeting will be held at the Naval Air Systems Command, 1425 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, VA in Room 110 Jefferson Plaza 2. In order to faciliate a discussion of the technical issues, NAWCAD Lakehurst has developed a draft technical data package (TDP) for each program. The TDP contains data subject to export controls and may only be released to individuals or fims that have been certified by the Defense Logistics Services Center (DLSC). Any request for the TDP must be accompanied by DLSC certification. Non-conforming requests cannot be filled and will be discarded without action. The Navy will provide copies of all relevant TDP documents upon written request and will have them available by approximately 23 July 97 and should be requested from the Bid Officer at Lakehurst; telefax (732) 323-2165. Questions may be addressed to Dianne Mount on (732) 323-2903, telefax (732) 323-7440. If interested in attending the industry brief, please advise Dianne Mount and submit a visit request to NAVAIR. You must have a visit request on file with the NAVAIR Visitor Control Office, 1421 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22243-5120, (703) 604-4053, Fax (703) 604-4052, prior to the meeting to obtain access. The draft TDP for the ATLS consists of a Statement of Objectives (SOO), a Performance Requirements Document (PRD), a system Level Interface Specification, and a Program Work Breakdown Structure. The draft TDP for the ATCM consists of a Statement of Objectives (SOO), a Performance Requirements Document (PRD), a system level Interface Specification, an interface package for the C-13 MOD O test site and a Program Work Breakdown Structure. Depending on the length of the comment cycle resulting from this advance notice, the formal RFP is expected to be issued Oct 1997. NAWCAD Lakehurst will synopsize any formal contract action in the CBD prior to its release. This notice is not a solicitation of offers and the Government is not liable for the costs for any activity associated with a response to this announcement or attendance at the industry brief. Request copies in writing or by facsimile (732) 323-2165. See Numbered Note(s): 8. (0196)

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