MH-139 Cabin Reconfiguration RFI
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. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC/WIH) is conducting market research through this Request for Information (RFI) to identify sources capable of designing, integrating, and testing a modified cabin seating configuration for the MH-139A aircraft. The objective is to introduce a multi-configurable seating system that enhances mission effectiveness, crew situational awareness, and safety, while retaining the existing configuration as an option. Responses are due by June 20, 2026.
Scope of Work
The Air Force seeks solutions for a modified cabin seating system for the MH-139A. Key requirements include:
- Capacity: Accommodate eight (8) Security Forces, two (2) Special Mission Aviators (SMAs), and two (2) pilots.
- System Compatibility: Maintain full functionality of existing subsystems (ECS, Weapon System, ICS, Hoist, FLIR, FRIES).
- Multi-Configuration: Enable rapid reconfiguration (1 hour or less) between current and proposed seating arrangements.
- SMA Seating: Provide swivel seats for SMAs, capable of locking in forward, aft, and outward-facing positions, improving cabin movement and situational awareness.
- Airworthiness: Meet or exceed military and civil crashworthiness standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810, SAE AS8049).
- Integration: Relocate displaced cabin equipment and redesign the Ballistic Protection System (BPS).
- Hardware Re-use: Maximize use of existing seating system hardware (F+E Fischer Troop Seat 1410C, Brownline Seat Track).
- Support: Provide on-site technical support during initial installation/testing and subject matter expert support post-integration.
- Certification: Ability to obtain an FAA-approved Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for the modification, including detailing the process, timeline, experience, and risk mitigation strategies.
An attached PDF, "MH-139A Cabin Configuration.pdf," provides a diagram illustrating the current cabin layout, which is relevant for understanding the physical space for modifications.
Response Requirements
Respondents should provide comprehensive information addressing:
- Company Information: Name, CAGE Code, POC, Business Size Status (NAICS 336413), Ownership, and interest as Prime or Subcontractor.
- Technical Capability: Detailed description of proposed solutions, reconfiguration process, possession of MH-139A technical data, experience with vertical lift aircraft modifications, system integration approach, and potential product improvements.
- Cost and Schedule: Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost estimates for non-recurring engineering and per-aircraft production/installation, along with an estimated timeline for development, testing, and initial operational capability.
- Small Business Utilization: Compliance with FAR 52.219-14 for Small Businesses or a realistic small business utilization target for Large Businesses.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Agency: Department of the Air Force, AFLCMC/WIH
- Product Service Code: 1520 (Aircraft, Rotary Wing)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: June 20, 2026, 5:00 PM ET
- Published: May 21, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for informational and market research purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or promise to issue an RFP. The Government will not reimburse expenses for responses. All prospective contractors must be registered in SAM.gov. Responses are limited to 15 pages.