Common Armament Tester for Fighter (CAT-F)
ID: FA8533-25-R-0002Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE AIR FORCEFA8533 AFLCMC WNKABROBINS AFB, GA, 31098-1670, USA

NAICS

Instrument Manufacturing for Measuring and Testing Electricity and Electrical Signals (334515)

PSC

AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SHOP SPECIALIZED EQUIPMENT (4920)
Timeline
  1. 1
    Posted Nov 26, 2024, 12:00 AM UTC
  2. 2
    Updated Apr 1, 2025, 12:00 AM UTC
  3. 3
    Due Apr 16, 2025, 8:00 PM UTC
Description

The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking industry participation for the Common Armament Tester for Fighter (CAT-F) program, aimed at developing a versatile armament test system for the F-16, F-15, and A-10 aircraft. The procurement involves the design, manufacture, and sustainment of handheld and backshop testing capabilities, with a focus on enhancing maintenance operations while addressing obsolescence and ensuring compliance with cyber-security and nuclear certification standards. This initiative is critical for modernizing military testing equipment and ensuring operational readiness, with a contract duration of one base year plus four options. Interested parties are encouraged to review the draft RFP documents and submit feedback by April 16, 2025, to the primary contact, Oya Harrison, at oya.harrison.1@us.af.mil, or the secondary contact, Alexis Davis, at alexis.davis.13@us.af.mil.

Point(s) of Contact
Files
Title
Posted
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The DD Form 2345 is a document used in the Joint Certification Program for entities or individuals seeking access to militarily critical technical data. This form requires applicants to indicate whether it is an initial submission, a revision, or a renewal of a previous certification. Key sections include the identification of the certified contractor, data custodians, and a detailed description of the applicant's relevant business activities. Applicants must certify adherence to U.S. and Canadian export control laws, confirm the legal residency of data custodians, and ensure that their organization or designated personnel are not disqualified from government contracts. The authorized entity representative must acknowledge the accuracy of the information provided and understand the legal implications of false statements. The form is approved by designated officials, and the certification is valid until its expiration unless revoked. This document plays a vital role in securing compliance with military regulations while facilitating participation in government contracts and projects involving sensitive data.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The solicitation FA8533-25-R-0002 outlines a government procurement process for the design and manufacturing of instrument systems for measuring and testing electricity and electrical signals. Issued by the United States Air Force at Robins AFB, the contract offers a mix of cost-plus-fixed-fee and firm-fixed-price options for various line items, including prototypes for multiple aircraft testing equipment. The procurement is open to all businesses, with no restrictions for small or disadvantaged entities. It specifies firm price commitments from bidders and includes requirements for quality assurance, inspection, and compliance with the Buy American Act. The document also addresses potential additional costs for travel and data management related to software and technical specifications. Essential timelines and conditions for submissions are presented, ensuring that all offers meet the government's regulatory standards. This initiative illustrates the government's commitment to enhancing military readiness through the modernized testing and evaluation of vital electronic systems.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The Common Armament Tester - Fighters (CAT-F) RFP outlines the requirements for the design, development, and production of various handheld and fault isolation testers for F-16, F-15, and A-10 fighter jets. This project includes multiple contract line item numbers (CLINs) across four option periods, each lasting 12 months. The solicitation, structured for Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contracts and Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contracts, specifies quantities and types of equipment, emphasizing the need for digital design and logistical support. Offerors are required to input financial data into highlighted fields within an Excel cost model to propose unit prices for labor, materials, and other direct costs related to each CLIN. The document stresses accurate proposal submission, linking costs appropriately, and applying specified add-on factors for overhead, G&A, and fee calculations. Proper preparation of technical data, travel plans, program management, and compliance documentation is essential throughout the project. Ultimately, the RFP emphasizes quality, compliance, and efficiency, reflecting government priorities in weapon system maintenance and modernization efforts.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The Common Armament Tester - Fighters (CAT-F) RFP outlines requirements for developing handheld and fault isolation testers for various aircraft, specifically the F-16, F-15, and A-10. The solicitation spans a basic contract period of 12 months, followed by four option periods, each also lasting 12 months, with details on Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) provided. The document specifies various contract types, including Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF), Cost Plus Incentive Fee (CPIF), and Firm Fixed Price (FFP), with extensive guidance on pricing structures and expected deliverables. Key deliverables include prototype designs, logistical support, and engineering development models (EDMs) for ground testing equipment essential for O-Level and I-Level maintenance standards. Each period includes quantities, unit costs, and management fees which contractors must fill out accurately in designated highlighted fields. The RFP encompasses compliance with cost proposal structures and emphasizes the need for linking financial projections correctly. Overall, the document serves as a critical framework for contractors to outline their capabilities in fulfilling government needs for advanced aviation testing solutions, highlighting procurement processes within federal RFP contexts.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The document outlines the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Initial Source Selection and design of the CAT-F System, which may result in awards to up to two contractors, with a final downselect to one following a Critical Design Review. The RFP emphasizes compliance with outlined proposal formats, technical requirements, and evaluation criteria, necessitating detailed submissions in specific volumes, including completed RFP forms, technical proposals, small business participation plans, and cost/price proposals. Key evaluation factors include technical proficiency, small business involvement, and pricing, with technical criteria being the most vital. Offerors are required to present comprehensive plans covering systems engineering, data rights, modular architecture compliance, and more. Proposals must follow stringent submission instructions, particularly regarding the encryption of submission documents and formats. The government aims for effective competition and reserves the right to award contracts based on technical merit rather than just cost, underscoring the necessity for offerors to provide clear, detailed proposals that ensure compliance and demonstrate the ability to meet or exceed government requirements efficiently.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The government file outlines an RFP for the CAT-F System Design, intended for selecting contractors through an Initial Source Selection process culminating in a Final Downselect. The selection will award contracts to up to two offerors, who will progress to a Critical Design Review (CDR) before a single contractor is chosen based on evaluation criteria. Proposals must include a detailed Technical Proposal addressing system engineering, Statement of Work (SOW), Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) utilization, and data rights plans. Offerors must submit proposals in separate volumes, detailed guidelines for submission formats, and specific communication protocols regarding source selection information. The evaluation will focus on technical quality, small business participation, and cost/price reasonableness. The document stipulates strict adherence to submission timelines and compliance with RFP conditions to ensure proposal eligibility. The government aims for a best-value decision, evaluating trade-offs between technical acceptability and pricing. Overall, this RFP is a structured approach to procure system design services while ensuring quality and value through competitive evaluations.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The document outlines the procedures and criteria for an Initial Source Selection and Final Downselect for the CAT-F System Design acquisition. The government intends to award contracts to a maximum of two offerors, proceeding to a final downselect based on performance in Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) and Production phases. The evaluation process emphasizes technical proposals, requiring a clear demonstration of meeting requirements through detailed plans, risk mitigation strategies, and adherence to the Modular Open Systems Architecture (MOSA) principles. Proposals will be categorized into distinct volumes focusing on completed requests for proposals, technical submissions, small business participation, and cost/price proposals. The government aims for a best value award, balancing technical excellence against cost, with technical factors prioritized over price. Offerors must comply with specific formats and requirements, including encryption of proposals and submission deadlines. Ultimately, the process emphasizes maximizing communication between the government and contractors to foster understanding and successful competition.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The Statement of Objectives (SOO) for the Common Armament Tester – Fighter (CAT-F) outlines the government's requirement for the development, manufacture, deployment, and sustainment of a versatile armament test system for the F-16, F-15, and A-10 aircraft. The system must enhance flightline and backshop maintenance capabilities while addressing obsolescence and manufacturing source issues. The CAT-F will incorporate a cyber-secure, nuclear-certified design using Modular Open Systems Architecture, and must provide specific handheld and backshop testing capabilities. Key components include O-Level handheld testers and I-Level functional testers, each requiring specific cable and adapter kits for aircraft compatibility. The document delineates clear expectations, including proposals for prototype plans, integrated master schedules, and surge capability plans. It stipulates that the performance period will consist of one base year plus four options, aiming for prompt advancements in armament maintenance testing efficiently. Intellectual property considerations are also emphasized, ensuring the government retains rights to developed data and software. This SOO serves as a guiding framework for contractors to submit innovative proposals that address these objectives, reinforcing operational readiness and modernization of military testing equipment.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The Common Armament Tester for Fighter (CAT-F) program is a federal initiative aimed at developing a standardized testing system for the U.S. Air Force’s fighter jets, specifically the A-10, F-15, and F-16. This system is intended to replace existing armament testers to meet the maintenance requirements at both Organizational and Intermediate Levels. The CAT-F will be robust, cyber-secure, and compliant with nuclear certification standards while adhering to a Modular Open System Architecture framework, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in design. Key components include an O-Level Handheld Tester and various aircraft-specific cable and adapter kits for effective fault isolation and maintenance tasks, along with an Integrated Master Schedule for project management. Proposals from industry are invited, emphasizing innovative approaches to meet the outlined specifications and requirements detailed in the Statement of Objectives. Furthermore, this program addresses issues related to Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) while ensuring reliable performance and compatibility with legacy systems. The contract duration is set for one year, with options for four additional years, allowing continuous development and support for the CAT-F system.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The document addresses concerns regarding the F-15 Alternate Mission Equipment (AME) list, citing its incompleteness and inconsistencies that could hinder proposal accuracy and execution. It suggests revising the M-900 evaluation criteria to prioritize the maturity of the proposed systems, which is vital for contract award viability. Additionally, there are operational challenges with a requirement for non-rechargeable batteries that conflict with military specifications, impacting system performance in cold conditions. Furthermore, the implementation of Automatic Test Markup Language (ATML) and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) for legacy aircraft like the F-15, A-10, and F-16 may result in unnecessary costs and delays. A recommendation for a cost-effective strategy focuses on applying these technologies to newer systems instead. The response includes updates to the AME lists after review by Subject Matter Experts and specifies changes to the battery requirements for the CAT-F Handheld Tester to allow for multiple power options. The evaluation criteria remains unchanged, but offerors are encouraged to justify any additional scheduling costs related to these specifications. This summary encapsulates the document's critical concerns and responses within the context of government procurement practices.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The document encompasses the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the development of advanced handheld testers for the F-15E and A-10 aircraft maintenance. It outlines the acquisition process for two contracts focusing on engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) and production phases, including various Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) for prototypes, demonstrative tests, and full-rate production. Key requirements demand technical risk mitigation, cost realism in proposals, and adherence to specified systems engineering standards and performance requirements. Critical points address the need for clarity on proposal details, evaluation methodologies, and compliance with government standards for the handheld tester's performance and capabilities. The RFP emphasizes performance criteria, technical specifications, and focuses on ensuring that all proposals demonstrate a low-risk rating and technical acceptability. Concerns regarding the evaluation of costs in relation to proposals, particularly regarding unrealistic pricing, are raised. Overall, the RFP reflects the government's commitment to fostering competitive innovation in defense procurement while ensuring technical feasibility and cost-effectiveness in the development of sophisticated military maintenance tools.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The document is a draft detailing the requirements and proposal evaluation processes for a government RFP concerning the CAT-F program. It outlines the structure of submissions across various volumes, clarification requests from potential offerors, and government responses addressing these inquiries. Key topics include the evaluation criteria for technical proposals, the integration of various plans (such as the Sustainment and Fielding Plans), and the terms and conditions for small business participation and data rights evaluation. Specific concerns about documentation processes, page limits, and technical specifications are highlighted, along with the USAF's approach to evaluating performance risks and contractual arrangements. Additionally, the document discusses expectations regarding proposal content, clarifications regarding oral presentations, and the overall contract structure, emphasizing the use of Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) arrangements. The responses illustrate the government's intent to ensure clarity and coherence within the RFP process, ultimately aiming for a successful acquisition that meets programmatic and operational objectives while facilitating small business involvement.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The document presents a series of questions aimed at industry stakeholders regarding a specific federal program. It seeks to gauge interest in proposals based on the outlined program objectives and requirements. Key inquiries include whether potential bidders intend to submit proposals, concerns that may deter participation, clarification needed on the objectives and requirements, and requests for additional information that could assist in the bidding process. This feedback mechanism is fundamental for the government to understand industry perspectives, adapt its solicitations, enhance bidder engagement, and ensure that the program objectives align with market capabilities. Ultimately, these inquiries foster a collaborative approach to improve the solicitation process, aiming to attract high-quality proposals that meet federal and local standards effectively.
Apr 1, 2025, 1:05 PM UTC
The Draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Common Armament Tester - Fighter (CAT-F) seeks industry input on various aspects of the project, primarily focusing on the development and delivery timelines for operational (O-level) and intermediate (I-level) testers for aircraft such as F-16, F-15, and A-10. Key inquiries include recommended quantities for developmental and operational testing, assessment of technical risks, and the feasibility of providing a contractor Statement of Work (SOW) and Program Schedule. The RFP also covers logistical concerns, including post-warranty support metrics and potential warranty costs. Companies are asked to share their modeling tools and engineering processes for digital engineering, particularly regarding the integration of commercial components. The document addresses contracting issues like subcontractor usage, data rights for operational level testers, and feedback on the proposed contract structure. Overall, the RFP aims to facilitate comprehensive insight from industry stakeholders to enhance the planning and execution of the CAT-F acquisition process, ensuring risk management and cost-effectiveness in the program's implementation.
Lifecycle
Title
Type
Special Notice
Similar Opportunities
Common Armament Tester for Fighter (CAT-F)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is preparing to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Common Armament Tester for Fighters (CAT-F) project, aimed at designing, developing, manufacturing, and sustaining testing equipment for the F-16, F-15, and A-10 aircraft platforms. This procurement is critical for ensuring effective maintenance capabilities, as the CAT-F will be used to test Preload, Clean Wing, and Fault Isolation Requirements at both Organizational (O-Level) and Intermediate (I-Level) Maintenance levels. The acquisition will follow a Full and Open Competitive Acquisition process, with an anticipated RFP issue date in the third quarter of FY25 and a response deadline of 45 days thereafter. Interested parties can direct inquiries to Oya Harrison at oya.harrison.1@us.af.mil or Alexis Davis at alexis.davis.13@us.af.mil, with the project expected to include a mix of pricing arrangements and a delivery schedule for prototypes beginning 12 months after order placement.
FMS F-15 ARR Cart
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking information from potential suppliers for the FMS F-15 ARR Cart under a Sources Sought notice. This procurement aims to identify responsible suppliers capable of providing engineering, manufacturing, inspection, and testing services related to aerial refueling receptacles, with a focus on small businesses, including those with 8(a) and Women-Owned designations. The opportunity is critical for ensuring the availability of cartridge and propellant actuated devices and components, which play a vital role in military operations. Interested parties must submit their responses, including company profiles and relevant experience, by April 7, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Stephanie Martin at stephanie.martin.24@us.af.mil or Lauren Johnston at lauren.johnston.4@us.af.mil.
Universal Fuel Accessories Test Stand (UFATS)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking proposals for the acquisition of a Universal Fuel Accessories Test Stand (UFATS) to be installed at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. The UFATS must be a new and unused system designed using advanced technology to validate various aerospace components, adhering to stringent specifications and safety protocols outlined in the Statement of Work (SOW). This procurement is critical for ensuring the operational readiness and maintenance of aircraft systems, emphasizing compliance with government and industry standards. Interested contractors, particularly small businesses, must submit their proposals by April 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM CST, and are required to acknowledge receipt of solicitation amendments and comply with export control requirements, including signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) for access to controlled documents. For further inquiries, contractors can contact Tran Tran, the Procurement Contracting Officer, at Tran.Tran.1@us.af.mil.
Multi-MDS Fire and Overheat Detection System (FODS) Tester
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Army, is issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to identify sources for a Fire and Overheat Detection System (FODS) Tester intended for Multi-MDS aircraft. This RFI aims to gather technical information and capabilities related to a tester that meets stringent operational and environmental requirements, including features such as accurate fault diagnosis, real-time feedback, user-friendly operation, rugged durability compliant with military standards, and self-calibration capabilities. The initiative is crucial for enhancing aircraft safety and operational readiness through effective maintenance solutions. Interested vendors should submit detailed technical descriptions, with submissions not exceeding ten pages, to Dormey Blankmann at dormey.blankmann@us.af.mil by the specified deadline, noting that costs incurred in responding will not be reimbursed.
Common Regulator Test Stands (CRTS)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is soliciting proposals for the procurement of three Common Regulator Test Stands (CRTS) to be delivered to Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma. This procurement is a sole source acquisition directed to Mission Systems Davenport, and it includes specific requirements for delivery, training, and compliance with various federal regulations. The solicitation emphasizes the importance of these test stands for aircraft maintenance and repair operations, ensuring that the Air Force can maintain operational readiness. Interested contractors must submit their quotes by April 18, 2025, and can direct inquiries to Madelyn Thompson at madelyn.thompson@us.af.mil or Jason Shirazi at Jason.Shirazi@us.af.mil.
F-16 HRPDG Qualification Testing and Integration
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Air Force's F-16 System Program Office at Wright Patterson AFB, is seeking information regarding the sustainment and qualification testing of a High Resolution Programmable Display Generator (HRPDG), focusing on two additional Advanced Processor Circuit cards. This procurement is critical for maintaining the operational capabilities of the F-16 aircraft, ensuring that the display systems meet the necessary performance standards. Interested vendors must submit a controlled document access request through SAM to obtain the associated RFI documents, contingent upon verification of a current Joint Certification (JCP) certification. Responses to the RFI are due by Friday, April 11, 2025, at 3:00 PM (MST), and inquiries should be directed to Contracting Officer Laurie Auernig at laurie.auernig@us.af.mil or Program Manager Lt John Lyons at john.lyons.16@us.af.mil.
Market Survey - Medium Cannon Caliber Airbursting Fuze Common Tactical Setter (AFCTS)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army Contracting Command - New Jersey, is conducting a market survey to identify potential sources for the manufacturing of the Medium Cannon Caliber Airbursting Fuze Common Tactical Setter (AFCTS) system. This electromechanical system is crucial for converting and transferring mission data between fire-control systems and programmable ammunition, with a total requirement of approximately 550 units for the AFCTS Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) and varying quantities for associated Ammunition Setter Contacts (ASC) for specific weapon systems. Interested companies must respond by April 18, 2025, providing detailed information about their manufacturing capabilities and experience, and must comply with strict data handling and export control regulations. For further inquiries, contact Mr. Erick Martins at erick.d.martins.civ@army.mil.
OTPS PHASE 2 - NEXT GENERATION JAMMER (NGJ)
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, through the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD), is seeking industry input for the Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band (NGJ-MB) System Operational Test Program Set (OTPS) Phase Two Development. This procurement aims to acquire three OTPS units for depot-level testing and repair, focusing on management, logistics, cybersecurity, integration, and testing for Automated Test Equipment (ATE) and Test Program Sets (TPS) that support Units Under Test (UUTs). The initiative is critical for enhancing operational capabilities and maintaining equipment readiness for the NGJ-MB program, building on the foundational work completed in Phase One with Raytheon Company. Interested parties must submit their responses, not exceeding ten pages, by January 17, 2025, to the designated contacts, Desiree Pendleton and Melissa Bucci, via email.
Teradyne Spectrum and TS-128 Maintenance and Repair MOD
Buyer not available
The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Air Force, is seeking potential contractors to provide maintenance and repair services for Teradyne Spectrum and TS-128 test systems at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia. The procurement involves on-site preventive maintenance, unscheduled maintenance, calibration, and parts replacement for critical Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) systems, ensuring operational readiness and capability enhancement. Contractors must possess a SECRET Security clearance and are encouraged to submit their capabilities, including relevant experience and repair procedures, by April 9, 2025. Interested parties can contact Angela Dang at angela.dang@us.af.mil or Teresa Duval at teresa.duval@us.af.mil for further information.
Air Force Test and Analysis Tool (AFTAT) Information Technology (IT) Program Update to STARLIMS Technology Platform 12.7 and Conversion to a Full HTML 5 Interface
Buyer not available
The Department of the Air Force is soliciting proposals for the Air Force Test and Analysis Tool (AFTAT) Information Technology (IT) Program, which involves updating the STARLIMS technology platform to version 12.7 and converting its interface to a full HTML5 format. The project aims to enhance data accessibility and operational efficiency by providing real-time access to quality data generated from various aviation support tests, replacing the outdated XFD interface currently in use. Vendors must demonstrate experience with STARLIMS programming and provide comprehensive support, including program management, system analysis, technical support, and training, while adhering to USAF cybersecurity standards. Proposals are due by 3:00 PM EST on April 8, 2025, and should be submitted via email to Meredith Setterfield and Richard Saltsman. The anticipated award date for the contract is April 22, 2025, with a total small business set-aside under FAR 19.5.