Request for Information (RFI) for Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) Updates for APX-119 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Transponder Retrofit on the E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Fleet
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 (AFLCMC C3NK) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify potential contractors capable of updating Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) for the APX-119 Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) Transponder Retrofit on the E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) Fleet. This RFI is for planning purposes only and is not a request for proposals. Responses are due by April 21, 2026, 1600 EST.
Scope of Work
The primary objective is to amend existing STCs (ST00187MC and ST00170MC) for Bombardier Global 6000 and Global XRS aircraft. This involves facilitating the removal of older APX-119 IFF transponders and Digital Control Panels (DCPs) and installing upgraded units. The effort includes STC upgrades for one Global XRS (9355) and five Global 6000 aircraft (9506, 60045, 60056, 60087, 60156), with Global 6000 aircraft 60115 excluded. Potential installation locations include Robins AFB, GA; Bombardier facilities (Wichita/Hartford, CT); and deployed CENTCOM locations.
Key Requirements & Clarifications
- Experience: Contractors must demonstrate experience in updating STCs for Bombardier Global 6000/XRS aircraft, along with planning, integration, and testing to meet FAA and USAF airworthiness requirements.
- STC Data: While the government has access to STC data, Bombardier holds the Existing IFF MIL GPS STC, requiring third-party vendors to coordinate with Bombardier for system data.
- Government Furnished Property (GFP): APX-119 and DCP units will be provided by the Government as GFP.
- Approval Process: The USAF requires STC updates and does not permit the use of the FAA 337 Major Alteration approval process for this effort.
- Past Performance: USAF past performance related to CDA aircraft airworthiness certification and modifications is preferred, but other non-USAF examples will be accepted.
Submission & Evaluation
- Submission Type: Whitepaper, limited to 10 pages (excluding company brochures).
- Security Level: Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
- Submission Method: Via DoD SAFE.
- Subject Line: "IFF STC Amendment Response."
- Response Due: April 21, 2026, 1600 EST.
- Evaluation: Responses will inform market research and planning; this is not a request for quotations or proposals.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: April 21, 2026, 1600 EST
- Published: April 20, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for informational purposes only. The exact Period of Performance (PoP) and award type will be determined after RFI responses are received and updated STCs are obtained. Telephone inquiries are not accepted. Primary Point of Contact: Rhett Reed (rhett.reed@us.af.mil). Secondary Point of Contact: Madeline Emery (madeline.emery@us.af.mil).