F-35 Hand on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS)
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 United States Air Force Test Center (AFTC/PZZG), Edwards AFB, CA, intends to issue a sole source contract to Stirling Dynamics Limited for F-35 Hand on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) 80Hz systems. This action is for informational purposes only, as Stirling Dynamics is identified as the only vendor capable of meeting the unique 80Hz active force feedback requirement for F-35 flight simulators. Feedback and comments regarding this synopsis are due by February 6, 2026.
Scope of Work
The requirement includes the provision of F-35 Hand on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) 80Hz components, specifically:
- Simulated Sticks Excluding Grips (Qty 7)
- Simulated Throttles Excluding Grips (Qty 7)
- Essex F-35 JSF Side stick Grip (Qty 6)
- Essex F-35 JSF Throttle Grip (Qty 6)
- Rig Calibration and Maintenance (Qty 1)
These systems are essential for F-35 flight simulators to accurately replicate flight conditions for critical Pilot and Flight Qualification (P&FQ) missions.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sole Source Synopsis / Intent to Award (Competition other than full and open)
- Intended Awardee: Stirling Dynamics Limited
- Justification: FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) – Sole source due to Stirling Dynamics Limited being the only vendor capable of providing the required 80Hz active force feedback. Their products are custom-made, form, fit, and function replicas of actual flight-worthy controllers, and changing vendors would result in substantial cost duplication and failure to meet training needs.
- Set-Aside: None
- Feedback Due: February 6, 2026, 6:00 PM ET
- Published: January 28, 2026
Additional Notes
This is a courtesy synopsis and not a request for proposals. The Government will not reimburse for any costs incurred in furnishing information. Contractors must be registered in SAM.gov. Questions, comments, and feedback should be submitted via email to Mrs. Carmen Barahona (carmen.barahona@us.af.mil) or Ms. Jenna Jacobson (jenna.jacobson@us.af.mil). No telephone responses will be accepted. An Ombudsman is available for concerns, but issues should first be addressed with the Contracting Officer.