Shipboard Helicopter Handler Extra Low Profile (SHH-ELP) and the Multi-Aircraft Nose/Tail Integrated System (MANTIS)
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 Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Lakehurst has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for potential replacements of the existing Shipboard Helicopter Handler Extra Low Profile (SHH-ELP) and the Multi-Aircraft Nose/Tail Integrated System (MANTIS). The goal is to identify a new Shipboard Helicopter Handler II (SHH-II) capable of operating on both Freedom and Independence Class Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) to move MH-60R and MH-60S helicopters. This is for market research and planning purposes only; no contract will be awarded from this RFI. Responses are due by June 29, 2026.
Scope of Work
NAWCAD Lakehurst seeks information on commercial or military products and design concepts for the SHH-II. The new handler must replace the current SHH-ELP (used on Freedom Class LCS) and MANTIS (used on Independence Class LCS). Key notional requirements for the SHH-II include:
- Dead man type tethered operator controls.
- Zero turning radius.
- Ability to lower/disengage from aircraft tail gear without contact at angles up to 90 degrees.
- Approximately the same size as current handlers.
- Tie down/lifting attachment points.
- Positive interface with Tail Landing Gear (TLG) using axle hollows.
- Maximum unloaded speed of 3.0 mph; loaded speed of 1.5 mph.
- Capable of lifting a TLG weighing up to 8,000 lbs and exerting 5,000 lbs drawbar pull.
- Electric powered via rechargeable batteries with a built-in charger (NEMA 5–15P/5-20P compatible).
- Ability to traverse MH-60R/S aircraft on both LCS classes in Sea State up to 4.
- Meet MIL-S-901 shock requirements for Grade A heavyweight equipment.
- Highly reliable, easily maintainable, and supportable, meeting shipboard vibration, environmental, EMI, and mobility criteria.
Information Requested
Respondents should address integrated logistics, operational environment of similar products, design processes, experience with aircraft handling equipment, estimated delivery times for long-lead components, estimated production unit pricing, design/build timeframes, production delivery rates, and potential design features. For existing handlers, specific details on braking force, tread material, coefficient of friction, wheel loads/patch sizes, battery types, and ability to provide a quality Technical Data Package are requested.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought
- Set-Aside: None (Market Research)
- Response Due: June 29, 2026, 7:00 PM EDT
- Published: May 28, 2026
Additional Notes
This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to award a contract. Responses are not offers and will not be compensated. The government may use the information to finalize its acquisition strategy but does not intend to award a contract based on this RFI. No formal solicitation exists at this time.