Shipboard Helicopter Handler Extra Low Profile (SHH-ELP) and the Multi-Aircraft Nose/Tail Integrated System (MANTIS)

The Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division at Lakehurst, on behalf of the Department of the Navy, is seeking information for a potential replacement for the SHH-ELP and MANTIS aircraft handlers used to move MH-60R and MH-60S helicopters aboard Freedom and Independence class Littoral Combat Ships. The work centers on a proposed Shipboard Helicopter Handler II that can handle both ship classes and perform shipboard movement between the flight deck and hangar bay. Key performance interests include tethered dead-man controls, zero turning radius, electric battery power, built-in charging capability, sea state 4 operation, and shock, vibration, environmental, EMI, and mobility compatibility for shipboard use. The government is also asking industry to share design approach, logistics support considerations, delivery and production estimates, and technical data package capability for sustainment. This is a sources sought/request for information only, with responses due by email before the posting closes, no formal solicitation currently available, and no contract to be awarded from the notice.