U.S. Navy RFP issued for presidential helicopters

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WASHINGTON, May 6 (UPI) -- A Request for Proposal was issued Monday by the U.S. Navy for the Presidential Helicopter Replacement Program, with submissions due in 90 days.

A fixed-price incentive engineering and manufacturing development contract -- with production options -- is expected to be awarded next year.

"Our acquisition approach includes a full and open competition to select a prime contractor that can best integrate mature subsystems into an air vehicle currently in production for an affordable solution that meets mission requirements," said Capt. Dean Peters, the program manager charged with development of the replacement aircraft.

"We're seeking a technically viable, cost-effective vertical lift aircraft to replace the current fleet as these reach the end of their useful service life."

Sikorsky, working with Lockheed Martin, is bidding on the award. AgustaWestland and Northrop Grumman, and Boeing are also expected to do so.

"The men and women of Sikorsky and Lockheed Martin are ready to offer Sikorsky's proven S-92 helicopter in response to the U.S. Navy's formal Request for Proposals to build the next Marine One helicopter fleet," Sikorsky said.

"Sikorsky brings unmatched experience having flown every commander in chief since President Eisenhower. When combined with Lockheed Martin's systems integration expertise, our team provides unparalleled knowledge of presidential helicopter transport. "

The EMD phase of the program calls for the award winner to produce six test aircraft, four of which will become operational aircraft. A total of 17 operational aircraft would be built in the production phase.