HH-60W Link-16 Advanced Capability Modernization
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 Department of the Air Force is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice for the HH-60W Link-16 Advanced Capability Modernization. This effort seeks to identify qualified sources capable of upgrading and replacing the existing Link-16 TacNet Tactical Radio (TTR) with the KOR-24A Small Tactical Terminal (STT) on the HH-60W helicopter fleet. This modernization is critical to meet validated Advanced Capability (AC) and Cryptographic Modernization (CM) requirements, as the current TTR cannot support these updates, risking network access denial. Responses are due March 13, 2026.
Scope of Work
The modernization effort encompasses several key areas:
- Non-Recurring Engineering (NRE): All engineering activities required for the seamless integration of the STT into the HH-60W platform.
- System Integration: Includes physical and electrical design (e.g., adapter plates, antenna placement, structural/electrical analysis, power conditioning), as well as functional and software integration to ensure Link-16 functionality, STT compatibility, and software updates for AMC/FMS.
- Technical Data: Development and delivery of a comprehensive Technical Data Package (TDP), a Modification Time Compliance Technical Order (TCTO), and necessary Technical Order (TO) updates.
- Prototyping and Production: Manufacture and delivery of two (2) trial installation/kit proof units, followed by ninety-eight (98) production kits, totaling 100 aircraft.
- Verification and Testing: Development and execution of validation/verification plans, conduct of testing, delivery of test plans/reports, and provision of a method to load the STT Operational Flight Program (OFP).
- Program Management: Comprehensive management of project schedule, budget, subcontractors, and addressing Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (DMS/MS) issues.
- Cybersecurity: Provision of information on known vulnerabilities and evidence of cyber hardening.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Set-Aside: None specified; both large and small businesses are encouraged to participate.
- Response Due: March 13, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
- Published: February 25, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties should submit documentation demonstrating their capabilities to meet the outlined requirements. The government encourages teaming arrangements or joint ventures. Responses will be used for informational purposes and market research only to determine industry capabilities; this does not constitute a solicitation. Respondents are responsible for marking any proprietary or competition-sensitive information.
Additional Notes
This is a market research effort only and does not guarantee a future solicitation. The government will not reimburse expenses incurred in preparing responses. Security clearance and foreign participation levels are yet to be determined.