Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS) Coordination and Maintenance Services
ID: 1202SA24Q9500Type: Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFFOREST SERVICEINCIDENT PROCUREMENT AVIATION BRANCHBoise, ID, 837055354, USA

NAICS

Other Support Activities for Air Transportation (488190)

PSC

MAINT/REPAIR/REBUILD OF EQUIPMENT- AIRCRAFT COMPONENTS AND ACCESSORIES (J016)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)
Timeline
    Description

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, is soliciting quotes for the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS) Coordination and Maintenance Services, aimed at ensuring the operational readiness of eight MAFFS II units during wildfire seasons and throughout the year. The contractor will be responsible for a range of services including inspection, maintenance, repair, inventory management, engineering support, and training, all critical for effective wildfire suppression efforts when primary air resources are unavailable. This initiative underscores the importance of maintaining advanced firefighting capabilities, particularly as wildfire threats increase nationally. Interested contractors must submit their quotes by the specified deadline to Contracting Officer Rita "KAY" Brundage at rita.brundage@usda.gov, with the contract period running from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2030, and the solicitation being a total small business set-aside.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Rita "KAY" Brundage
    rita.brundage@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service is seeking quotes for the sustainability, maintenance, and coordination services of Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS II) through Solicitation No. 1202SA24Q9500. Interested contractors must submit quotes via email to Contracting Officer Kay Brundage by the stated deadline. Each quote must include completed forms such as SF 1449, and various representations and certifications. The proposal process is non-binding, implying that the government has no obligation to cover any submission costs. A performance period is outlined extending from May 1, 2025, through April 30, 2030, with options for extension. Proposals should conform to standard Federal Acquisition Regulation guidelines, including clauses related to contract terms, safeguarding information systems, and compliance with labor standards. The solicitation also emphasizes non-discrimination in contracting activities. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to effective wildfire management operations through reliable service agreements with contractors.
    The document pertains to the MAFFS II Sustainment, Maintenance, and Coordination Support Services Program and encompasses a Past Performance Questionnaire intended for contractors. It requires contractors to provide essential information about their company and past project performance, specifically referencing client details, contract numbers, project titles, and performance metrics. The questionnaire assesses contractors based on their previous working relationships, compliance with regulations, equipment maintenance, quality of service, and timeliness of performance, with performance ratings categorized as "Acceptable" or "Unacceptable." Detailed evaluative questions focus on the contractor's technical abilities, quality control measures, and capacity to handle subcontractors, amongst other criteria. The purpose of the questionnaire is to gather information that will help determine the viability and reliability of contractors for future projects under federal and state RFPs. It aims to gauge previous performance and establish the contractors' capability to meet government standards and requirements effectively.
    The document outlines a comprehensive schedule of items related to the MAFFS II Project and Inventory Management, detailing various activation types and associated costs for mechanics over multiple years. It includes several Contract Line Item Numbers (CLIN) indicating different activities such as scheduled and unscheduled activations, engineering services, inventory replenishment, and travel expenses. For each item, the document specifies hourly rates for Master, Journeyman, and Apprentice mechanics, as well as lump-sum charges for various services. The contract spans a base year followed by four optional years and a six-month extension, indicating the project's longevity and the government’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness and safety. The purpose of this schedule is to provide a structured framework for requesting proposals (RFPs) and grants in the federal context, ensuring all costs, service scopes, and labor rates are clearly defined for potential contractors. This structured approach facilitates transparency and accountability in government procurements related to emergency management and maintenance operations.
    The Maintenance Manual for the Modular Airborne Firefighting System (MAFFS), Part Number 113000-301, outlines essential procedures for the inspection, repair, and operation of the system used on C-130 aircraft. The document, published by the U.S. Forest Service, emphasizes the critical role of the MAFFS in aerial firefighting by detailing its construction, including the forward, center, and aft pallets, hydraulic systems, and electronic controls. Each chapter describes the MAFFS components, from the forward pallet's power and control assembly to the nozzle's functionality during retardant dispersion. With 250 pages, the manual provides a comprehensive overview, including safety protocols, operating theory, maintenance checklists, and detailed repair procedures for electrical, air, and hydraulic systems. Additionally, the manual addresses corrosion prevention and operational inspections to ensure system readiness. As part of federal guidelines, this manual illustrates the importance of systematic maintenance for effective government-funded fire suppression efforts, contributing to public safety initiatives directly related to environmental management and disaster response.
    The document is the maintenance and operation manual for the ASD2244 Cargo Handling Trailer, detailing usage, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols associated with the trailer designed for loading/unloading cargo from aircraft such as the C-130. The manual outlines trailer configuration, overall dimensions, loading/unloading procedures, and necessary equipment and personnel. It includes specific chapters on operation and maintenance, discussing hydraulic systems, electrical systems, and parts lists. Procedures for testing, fault isolation, and routine inspections are emphasized, underscoring compliance with safety regulations. The illustrated parts list aids in requisitioning and maintaining parts for the trailer. The document reflects the U.S. Forest Service's intent to standardize equipment operations and maintenance practices, critical for ensuring effective utilization during fire operations and other federal agency needs, reinforcing adherence to safety standards and operational efficiency in government contexts.
    The Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS II) is an initiative led by the USDA Forest Service to enhance wildfire response capabilities using military C-130 aircraft. Established in collaboration with the Department of Defense, MAFFS II units function as portable fire-retardant delivery systems. Transitioning from older models, these advanced systems are more efficient and capable of deploying higher concentrations of retardant. The Forest Service currently operates eight MAFFS II units across four military airlift wings, which necessitate pre and post-season maintenance by specially contracted mechanics. The program activates MAFFS II primarily when commercial firefighting resources are strained, typically in fire seasons from July to September. Historical data reflects variable activation frequency, with significant utilization noted in 2017. On average, MAFFS II systems deliver around 820,000 gallons of retardant during active seasons. The operational framework emphasizes interagency cooperation, with careful planning and rapid mechanic deployment crucial for efficient responses. This document outlines technical specifications, maintenance protocols, and the collaborative structure vital to the MAFFS II program, underscoring the significance of timely fire suppression efforts amidst increasing wildfire challenges across the nation.
    The "MAFFS Modular Airborne Firefighting System" operation manual outlines the specifications, operation, and maintenance of the MAFFS installed on C-130 aircraft. This system features a palletized firefighting apparatus capable of independently operating to deliver retardant or foam to combat wildfires. The manual includes detailed descriptions of the system components, such as the forward, center, and aft pallets, discharge nozzle assembly, and support equipment. Key operational procedures for air, hydraulic, and electrical systems are articulated, emphasizing secure fluid handling during drop missions. It discusses the air system's charging methods, the process for normal retardant drops, foam tank operations, and emergency jettison procedures. Each component's functionality, including control panels and pneumatic valves, is comprehensively documented. The manual is aimed at ensuring the effective and safe operation of MAFFS for firefighting, contributing to federal and state efforts in wildfire management. Thus, it serves as a crucial guide for personnel responsible for operating and maintaining aerial firefighting systems in compliance with U.S. Forest Service standards.
    The MAFFS Operating Plan, established by federal oversight, details the deployment and operations of the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) used for wildfire suppression. It outlines procedures for activation, operational guidelines, and training for Air National Guard (ANG) and Air Force Reserve (AFRC) personnel. The document emphasizes the roles and responsibilities of entities involved, which include the National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC) and the Forest Service, in coordinating requests and managing resources. Key operational procedures dictate ordering MAFFS support through federal channels when commercial airtankers are unavailable. The plan mandates safety protocols and outlines maintenance standards for the systems, ensuring aircrew proficiency through structured training requirements. It further discusses communication protocols, specifying equipment and frequencies for mission effectiveness. Ultimately, this document serves as a comprehensive framework for utilizing MAFFS in wildfire response efforts, delineating procedures, safety measures, and interagency coordination to augment firefighting capabilities effectively. The plan is critical for maintaining readiness and ensuring effective deployment in emergency situations, underlining the government's commitment to managing national wildfire threats efficiently.
    The document provides a detailed description of the Airborne Fire Fighting System (AFFS) developed by Aero Union Corporation for the C-130 aircraft. It outlines the system's specifications, operational capabilities, and its integration into the aircraft without requiring permanent modifications. The AFFS is a 3000-gallon, constant flow system designed to discharge fire retardant efficiently during aerial firefighting operations, meeting stringent regulatory criteria. Key components of the system include a high-pressure air system, nozzle assembly, control mechanisms, and emergency dump capabilities, all of which enhance its functionality and safety. The control system comprises multiple interfaces for both the loadmaster and pilots, allowing them to set drop parameters and activate functions as needed. The document is structured with a table of contents, introduction, sections on system components and controls, references to other related reports, and detailed technical illustrations. This description serves as a comprehensive guide for understanding the AFFS's design and operational use, potentially relevant for federal and state agencies involved in aerial firefighting and safety compliance.
    The "Technical Exhibit 5 - ASD494C C-130 AFFS Requirements Specification" outlines the specifications and requirements for the Advanced Fire Fighting System (AFFS) in the C-130 aircraft. The purpose of this document is to support federal procurement processes by defining the performance criteria, operational features, and technical capabilities necessary for implementing an effective fire suppression system on the aircraft. Key sections include detailed descriptions of system components, performance testing methods, safety standards, and integration processes with existing C-130 systems. Additional supporting information addresses logistical concerns such as maintenance, training requirements, and compatibility with various missions. The document emphasizes the importance of reliability and efficiency to meet operational demands in diverse environments. Overall, the specifications aim to guide contractors in developing solutions that enhance the operational readiness and safety of the C-130 fleet, thus aiding government agencies in their bidding process and ensuring compliance with federal standards.
    The document appears to be a reference point related to government RFPs, particularly concerning MAFFS COMP. 2, which suggests a focus on the Modular Airborne Firefighting System. It likely involves procurement or grant processes pertinent to federal, state, or local entities. Key topics likely include logistics for fire suppression, methods for delivery or release, and operational protocols for aircraft used in firefighting efforts. The structure suggests urgency in the context of mitigating disaster through effective response mechanisms. The information indicates coordination with multiple agencies and units (implied by terms like "DELUGE" and "RELEASE"), suggesting comprehensive planning for emergency interventions. Overall, the document emphasizes preparedness and strategic investment in firefighting capabilities, aligning with the government's broader initiatives for disaster management and safety.
    The document serves as an inventory list for various components, specifically related to maintenance and operational needs for ground and onboard compressor systems within a federal framework. It details part numbers, descriptions, quantities required across different locations, and storage shelf locations. Significant components include hoses, clamps, valves, hydraulic elements, filters, and fasteners, with specifics like assembly details and drawing references provided for easy identification. The cited inventory is crucial for the operational efficiency of related equipment, ensuring a readily available supply of essential parts. This meticulous documentation aligns with government RFPs and grants, underlining the importance of exact and organized resource management in federal operations, especially for maintenance and repair tasks impacting operational readiness.
    The document is a comprehensive inventory list detailing various parts and components required for ground compressors, specifically tailored for federal procurement. It outlines a wide array of items including bellows, filters, valves, and O-rings, specifying their part numbers, descriptions, and required quantities. Notably, many components are designated for use or storage in designated trailers or box sections, emphasizing the logistical framework for proper inventory management. The purpose of this inventory is to facilitate the acquisition process through Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and grants, ensuring that all essential components are readily available for maintenance or operational purposes. By categorizing and listing parts, the document aids in both clarity and organization, which is critical for government procurement. Overall, this inventory showcases the government’s structured approach to managing procurement, highlighting the importance of precise cataloging to streamline the procurement process while ensuring compliance with federal standards.
    The document outlines a series of discrepancies and the corresponding corrective actions taken by various organizations. Each entry includes the name of the individual or organization that discovered the discrepancy, the identified issue, and the date it was corrected along with who performed the correction. The form seems to serve as a systematic approach to track maintenance and repair issues within a specific system, suggesting a structured method for accountability and rectification within federal or local projects. The presence of multiple discrepancies indicates an ongoing monitoring process to ensure compliance and operational integrity, which is essential in the context of federal RFPs and grants, where precision and adherence to standards are critical. Overall, the document emphasizes the importance of addressing issues promptly and maintaining accurate records to support effective management of government resources.
    The MAFFS Maintenance Inspection Record (FS MIR Ver. 1) is a structured document designed to track and report inspections of the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS). It specifies the types of inspections conducted, which include pre-season, post-season, and post-flight assessments. The record includes sections for recording the date of inspection, relevant notes on the condition and performance of the systems, and the counter for tracking inspections. Additionally, it requires a signature to validate the inspection process. The primary purpose of this document is to ensure proper maintenance and oversight of MAFFS, crucial for firefighting operations. By systematically documenting inspections, the resulting data supports accountability and regulatory compliance within federal and state firefighting initiatives.
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