The Coalition Provisional Authority (CPA) in Iraq has launched a rushed competition to buy between eight and 16 light surveillance aircraft, but at least one potential supplier doubts the schedule is feasible.
All-new, two-seat aircraft with electro-optical/infrared sensors are needed urgently to provide surveillance of Iraqi infrastructure, borders and coastlines. Safe cruising speeds of 60-80kt (110-150km/h) during 5h patrol missions are key.
Acting on behalf of the CPA, the US Army's fixed-wing contracting office posted a request for proposals on 19 April and gave potential bidders just three weeks to reply. Proposals are due for return on 11 May, with a contract award for eight aircraft and eight options expected soon. "The aerial surveillance platform is a very urgent requirement and it is imperative we receive proposals, conduct evaluations and award a contract as soon as possible," says an acquisition document.
The first two aircraft must be handed over within 30 days of contract award, with all eight due for delivery within six months. The order includes a full training package for pilots and aircraft manuals in both English and Iraqi Arabic.
The pace of the CPA's acquisition plan has stunned Paul Schweizer, vice-president of Schweizer Aircraft, which is planning to submit a bid. Schweizer Aircraft makes the SA 2-37B quiet reconnaissance aircraft, which has performance levels similar to the CPA's request.
Schweizer told Flight International that no company can deliver an all-new, sensor-equipped aircraft within 30 days of an order. The provision of Arabic-language training manuals under such a deadline also is a challenging request, he says.
US Army officials declined to comment. Cessna Aircraft plans to compete, but declined to elaborate on its proposal.
STEPHEN TRIMBLE / WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International