CH-53K Electrical Optical (EO) / Infrared (IR) Sensor System Competition
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 Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), H-53 Heavy Lift Helicopters Program (PMA 261), is preparing for a full and open competition for a Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for the CH-53K Electrical Optical (EO) / Infrared (IR) Sensor System. A Pre-solicitation Conference is scheduled for April 21, 2026, in Lexington Park, MD, to discuss this seven-year requirement.
Scope of Work
This full and open competition aims to procure an EO/IR Sensor System for the CH-53K. The contract will encompass non-recurring engineering, engineering support, program support, production (forward fit, retrofit, spare sensor systems, and adapter plates), testing, logistics, data, and production reach-back support. The estimated performance period is approximately seven years, with work primarily performed at the contractor's facility. This is not a commercial buy, and FAR Part 12 will not be used.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ)
- Duration: Approximately seven (7) years
- Set-Aside: None (Full and Open Competition)
- Pre-solicitation Conference: April 21, 2026, 0800-1600 EDT, Precise Systems, Lexington Park, MD.
- Attendee List Due: April 14, 2026, 1500 EDT.
- DISS Visit Requests Due: April 16, 2026, 1500 EDT.
- Read-Ahead Questions Due: April 16, 2026, 1200 EDT.
- Industry Day (Tentative): Week of April 20, 2026.
- Anticipated Draft Solicitation Release: On or about 2nd Quarter 2026.
- Published: April 9, 2026 (Latest Update).
Participation & Access
Participation in one-on-one sessions at the pre-solicitation conference is limited to companies intending to submit proposals as prime contractors, though team members/subcontractors may attend. Classified sessions are available upon request, requiring appropriate facility security clearance and DISS visit requests (SMO: 0GM03, POC: Tyler Payne, 301-863-3626). Virtual, unclassified sessions are also available.
Access to draft RFP documents and the technical library requires an approved DD Form 2345. Only one point of contact per offeror will be granted access. The Government is updating the draft RFP to align with Revolutionary FAR Overhaul, so changes are expected. Final solicitation documents will be published via the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE), requiring an account.
Points of Contact
Questions should be submitted via email to Kym Leyva (kimberly.r.leyva.civ@us.navy.mil) and Christopher J. Harritt (christopher.j.harritt.civ@us.navy.mil).