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/Directorate of Contracting (AFTC/PZZG), Edwards AFB, CA, has awarded a sole-source, Firm-Fixed-Price contract to Stirling Dynamics Limited for F-35 Hand on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) 80Hz systems. This acquisition supports the F-35 flight simulator in Building 1030, providing high-fidelity, active force feedback essential for critical Pilot and Flight Qualification (P&FQ) missions.
Scope of Work
The contract covers the provision of F-35 Hand on Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) 80Hz systems, including:
- 7 Simulated Sticks Excluding Grips
- 7 Simulated Throttles Excluding Grips
- 6 Essex F-35 JSF Side stick Grips
- 6 Essex F-35 JSF Throttle Grips
- Rig Calibration and Maintenance
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP)
- Contracting Activity: Air Force Test Center (AFTC), Directorate of Contracting, Flight Test Contracting (PZZG)
- Award Date: February 27, 2026
- Place of Performance: Edwards, CA 93524, United States
- Product Service Code: 6910 (Training Aids)
Evaluation
This was a sole-source award, justified under competition other than full and open, due to the unique technical requirement for the HOTAS system to continuously update force parameters at a rate of 80Hz. Stirling Dynamics Limited is the sole manufacturer of the 80Hz HOTAS that meets this specific and demanding requirement for the F-35 flight simulator. Market research confirmed that alternative solutions did not meet the 80Hz requirement or simulation-grade material standards.
Additional Notes
In accordance with FAR 5.207(c)(15), a Sources Considered Announcement (SOCA) will be posted on SAM.gov to allow for vendor contestation. Previous sole-source contracts have been awarded to Stirling Dynamics for similar systems.