Bidders for the US Air Force’s CSAR-X combat search-and-rescue helicopter requirement are responding to a revised request for proposals (RFP) that could alter the competition dynamics. The new RFP reflects accelerated funding that may favour a bidder able to deliver the definitive Block 10 vehicle soonest.
Boeing is offering the HH-47 Chinook for the 141-aircraft CSAR-X requirement, Lockheed Martin the US101 and Sikorsky the HH-92. The amended RFP sets contract award for August – a delay of three months – and initial operating capability of the basic Block 0 vehicle for the third quarter of 2012 – a delay of six months.
But the USAF’s latest budget seeks an extra $849 million over fiscal years 2007-11 to bring forward development of the more capable Block 10 helicopter by up to two years. The original plan was to build all aircraft in Block 0 standard then retrofit them to Block 10, but the extra funding will allow some to be built in the enhanced standard.
An important change in the amended RFP, according to one competitor, is that it leaves it to the bidder to propose when to “break into” CSAR-X production with the Block 10 vehicle. Boeing says its HH-47, based on the special-operation MH-47G, is already close to Block 0 standard, and claims it could begin Block 10 production earlier than its competitors, saving money on retrofits. Both Lockheed and Sikorsky say they can meet the requirement to accelerate Block 10 availability.
GRAHAM WARWICK / WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International
