The US Air Force is to issue an amendment to its original request for proposals for the CSAR-X combat search-and-rescue helicopter in a bid to end the controversy over its November 2006 selection of the Boeing HH-47 Chinook for the $15 billion, 145-aircraft programme.
The amended RFP will clarify how the USAF will assess manpower-associated operations and support costs for the three CSARS-X bids. If evaluation of the revised proposals results in a change to the best-value determination, the USAF says it "will make any necessary changes in contract award".
Citing inconsistencies in the calculation of life-cycle costs, the US Government Accountability Office sustained protests by Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky against award of the CSAR-X contract to Boeing, and recommended the USAF reopen the competition (Flight International, 6-12 March).
In turn, the air force has asked the GAO to reopen its investigation and rule on other issues raised by the protests. The USAF plans to issue the amended request "after the GAO clarifies any remaining issues", with the Congressional watchdog expected to publish its decision by 15 June.
Source: Flight International
