Engineering Study on Interchangeability of Dowty R391 Propellers between C 27J and HC 130J
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 U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), under the Department of Homeland Security, has issued a Sources Sought notice for an Engineering Study on the interchangeability of Dowty R391 Propellers between the C-27J and HC-130J aircraft. This market research aims to identify industry capabilities to assess the technical, airworthiness, and sustainment feasibility of using C-27J propellers on HC-130J platforms, particularly following the C-27J fleet sundown. Responses are due May 23, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. ET.
Purpose
The USCG seeks independent, rigorous industry input to determine if a technical, airworthiness, and sustainment-acceptable path exists for overhauling and employing Dowty R391/6-132-F/10 propellers (from C-27J) on the HC-130J (R391/6-132-F/3). The primary objective is to achieve this without requiring aircraft modifications, despite known differences in usage spectra, airworthiness limitations, and platform designation/traceability flagged by the OEM.
Scope of Work
Respondents are expected to provide insights and analysis covering:
- Configuration and Compatibility Baselines: Detailed assessment of propeller variants.
- Engine Mount System Analysis: Evaluation of compatibility and structural integrity.
- Functional and Performance Assessment: Ensuring operational equivalence.
- Structural Loads and Fatigue Life Equivalency: Comparative analysis of propeller lifespan and stress.
- System Safety and Airworthiness Substantiation: Addressing regulatory and safety concerns.
- Inspection, Overhaul, and Sustainment Considerations: Long-term maintenance and support.
Deliverables include technical plans, compatibility matrices, life assessment reports, and system safety assessments. The Government intends to provide relevant technical data (GFI) to support these analyses.
Response Requirements
Interested and qualified contractors must complete Attachment 1 – Sources Sought Notice Response. This template requires:
- Company information (name, address, POC).
- Product specifications and how they meet required tasks.
- Details on necessary product modifications.
- Lead-time estimates for product development.
- Business qualifications (size, certifications like 8(a), HUBZone, Woman-Owned, SDVOSB).
- Information on existing contracts or GSA schedule usage.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought (Market Research)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: May 23, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET)
- Published: April 8, 2026
- Place of Performance: Elizabeth City, NC
Additional Notes
This is solely for informational and planning purposes and is not a solicitation. The USCG is not seeking proposals or quotes at this time and will not accept unsolicited submissions. A future solicitation may be issued based on responses. Respondents should monitor sam.gov for updates. Email responses to Jackson.S.Perry@uscg.mil, referencing 70Z03826IE0000005 in the subject line.