C-17 Data Recorder
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of the Air Force (AFLCMC WLMKA) has issued a Special Notice seeking input on a draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for a C-17 Data Recorder system, known as the Databus Recording System (DBRS). This effort is designated as a Total Small Business Set-Aside. The DBRS will retrofit the United States Air Force (USAF) C-17 fleet with Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) to comprehensively record all data bus traffic. Comments and questions regarding this draft RFP are due by March 12, 2026. A formal solicitation (FA852626RB007) for a requirements-type Indefinite Delivery contract is anticipated, with proposals for that expected by December 31, 2026.
Purpose & Scope
The C-17 System Program Office (SPO) requires a system capable of capturing all data present across all data buses and fuel quantity computers of the C-17 aircraft. The DBRS effort (AF 1067, AMC 19-158) aims to retrofit the USAF C-17 fleet with LRUs to record databus traffic, providing a comprehensive aircraft data collection system to record, transfer, and retain all such traffic. The procurement strategy involves purchasing LRUs and spares for all 222 USAF C-17s. Additionally, 12 testing articles (7 LRUs and 5 spares) will be procured for Boeing Avionics Integration Support Facility (AISF) and USAF flight tests. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Airlift Management Program (NAMP) will procure 3 kits and 1 spare. The total number of LRUs will be 257. The DBRS must record all installed 1553/429 bus and fuel quantity computer data, capturing clean and complete C-17 flight information, system parameters, and component data for root-cause analysis.
Contract Details (Anticipated Solicitation)
- Type: Requirements-type Indefinite Delivery Contract (IDIQ)
- Period of Performance: 5-year total ordering period
- Pricing Arrangement: Firm Fixed Price for most CLINs; some items Not Separately Priced (NSP)
- NAICS Code: 334511 (Size Standard: 1350 employees)
- Set-Aside: 100% for Small Business
Submission & Evaluation (Anticipated Solicitation)
- Evaluation: Tradeoff source selection, with Technical (including Technical Solution and Schedule) being the most important factor, followed by Past Performance, then Price.
- Submission: Proposals must be submitted electronically via PIEE or encrypted email.
- Proposal Due Date: December 31, 2026, 11:59 PM EST.
Additional Notes
This notice is specifically for a draft Request for Proposal. Interested parties are encouraged to submit written comments and questions regarding the requirements and evaluation criteria by March 12, 2026. All questions and their corresponding answers will be published. Proprietary information should be clearly marked. To receive the list of attachments for this draft RFP, email the provided contacts. The anticipated solicitation (FA852626RB007) will include numerous DFARS and FAR clauses. Specific CLINs are designated for pre-production and production, with data requirements established as NSP and FOB Destination.
Contacts: Robert Rollins (robert.rollins.2@us.af.mil) and Jasmine Jordan (jasmine.jordan.4@us.af.mil).