IMPROVED LIFE PRESERVER UNIT (LPU) FOR NAVY ROTARY WING AND TILT ROTOR AIRCREW
ID: N00421-25-CPM202-RFI-LPUType: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE NAVYNAVAL AIR WARFARE CENTER AIR DIVPATUXENT RIVER, MD, 20670-1545, USA

PSC

MISCELLANEOUS AIRCRAFT ACCESSORIES AND COMPONENTS (1680)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/96cf8a5f15c94468960c77cc6286cada/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, through the Naval Air Warfare Center Air Division, is seeking information on improved Life Preserver Units (LPU) for Navy rotary wing and tilt rotor aircrew as part of a Request for Information (RFI). The objective is to identify potential LPU solutions that can be integrated into a new Aircrew Survival Vest System, focusing on compact and lightweight designs that do not impede head mobility. The LPU must meet specific performance specifications, including a minimum buoyancy of 65 pounds for 24 hours and the ability to right incapacitated crew members quickly, while also ensuring durability and compatibility with existing equipment. Interested parties should submit their responses, including product samples and technical specifications, by April 18, 2025, to Tim Parkhurst at NAVAIR PMA-202, with all inquiries directed to Amy Wescott at amy.l.wescott.civ@us.navy.mil.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Amy Wescott
    amy.l.wescott.civ@us.navy.mil
    Tim Parkhurst
    timothy.j.parkhurst.civ@us.navy.mil
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    LPU Performance Specification 3.19.25.docx
    This document outlines the draft performance specification for a Life Preserver Unit (LPU) intended for use by the U.S. Navy's rotary wing and tilt rotor aircrew. It details design requirements, operational effectiveness, and testing protocols for the LPU to ensure it provides sufficient buoyancy, self-righting capability, and flotation support under various conditions. Specifications include a minimum buoyancy of 65 pounds upon inflation for 24 hours and the ability to right incapacitated crew members within five seconds and while in survival gear. Additional directives involve material durability, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with existing equipment while emphasizing human factors for usability and emergency egress. The document indicates rigorous testing, including cyclic inflation tests and evaluations under various environmental conditions. Defined verification methods include inspections and demonstrations to adhere to safety and operational standards. This specification supports military readiness by ensuring life preservers are effective and reliable for aircrew safety in maritime operations, reflecting the Navy's emphasis on high-performance safety gear.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    IMPROVED LIFE PRESERVER UNIT (LPU) FOR NAVY ROTARY WING AND TILT ROTOR AIRCREW
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