Helicopter Tug

Solicitation / Sole Source Justification

This document is a Brand Name Justification for other than Full and Open Competition to procure one Model 8.0 Heavy Duty Tiger Tug. The equipment is needed to move and reposition the unit's UH-72A/B aircraft fleet within the Army Aviation Support Facility. The current aircraft tow bars are no longer supported for maintenance or replacement, and the reserve stock of associated ground handling wheels is depleted and unreliable. This procurement is necessary to ensure the continued safe ground handling of UH-72 A/B aircraft and mitigate risks to personnel and equipment.

• Model 8.0 Heavy Duty Tiger Tug for LUH-72A/B / EC145.

• Features a center notch for helicopter MEPS (Mission Equipment Packages) system clearance.

• Heavy Duty version includes a 36V system with a more powerful electric motor and transaxle for high-frequency use and longer travel distances.

• Walk-behind, battery-powered unit operated by a single person.

• Designed to safely maneuver aircraft while minimizing stress on the airframe.

• Total Estimated Cost: $36,065.00

• The current method of using manually operated tow bars is unsustainable as the contractor no longer supports these items, and the unit has no serviceable replacements, creating an unacceptable risk to operational readiness.

• The Tiger Tug 8.0 is uniquely suited due to its specific design and configuration for the Army's UH-72A/B aircraft, including a custom notch for the MEPS system, which generic tugs do not offer.

• TigerTugs is identified as the sole manufacturer capable of producing this specific configuration, which can reduce lead times for fielding.

• Market research was conducted to identify solutions for moving the UH-72A/B aircraft.

• While other aircraft tugs exist, none are designed for the specific requirements of the UH-72A/B with the MEPS system.

• The action will be publicized in accordance with Federal regulations (FAR 6.305, FAR 5.102(a)(6), FAR 13.106-1(b)).

• Confirmed the failure of the current solution (unsupported tow bars).

• Focused on finding a replacement that ensures safety and sustainability.

• A formal quote was obtained from the manufacturer, TigerTugs, detailing the specific configuration required and confirming its unique suitability.

• Vendor: TigerTugs

• Point of Contact: Scott Mills

• Email: info@tigertugs.com

• Safety: Eliminates risks associated with failing manual tow bars, preventing potential injury and aircraft damage.

• Operational Readiness: Ensures aircraft can be moved for missions and maintenance.

• Efficiency: Allows a single operator to move an aircraft, freeing up personnel for other tasks.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document describes the specifications for a "Model 8.0 Heavy Duty Tiger Tug for LUH-72A / EC145". It details design modifications compared to a standard Model 8.0 tug, intended for high-frequency usage, longer travel distances, and operation on slopes between hangars and tarmac.

• MEPS System Clearance: All tugs for Army Aviation Support Facilities will have a notch in the center top frame to accommodate the helicopter's MEPS system.
• Heavy Duty Enhancements:
  • Utilizes a 36V system voltage (vs. standard 24V) to reduce resistive heating in wiring.
  • Incorporates a more powerful electric motor, transaxle, and dedicated motor controller.

This attachment provides critical technical specifications for the tug required. Bidders should review these details to ensure their proposed solution meets the enhanced requirements for heavy-duty operation, including the specific MEPS system clearance.