Commander, Naval Air Systems Command (Code 2.0), 1421 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Arlington, Va 22243-5120

B -- CH-53E INFRARED SURVIVABILITY ASSESSMENT SOL N00019-96-G-0022 POC Contact, Pamela M. Jackson, Phone (703)604-1920 This announcement is for information only. The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) intends to award a non competitive procurement in response to an unsolicited proposal from Sikorsky A/C Co. This procurement is for the acquisition of services, materials and facilities to determine the extent to which the infrared (IR) signature of the CH-53E A/C must be reduced to improve A/C survivability and to evaluate the operational effectiveness of a suppressed CH-53E when equipped with engine IR suppression devices, jammers, expendable flares and threat warning devices. This technology development effort intends to leverage the results of Sikorsky proprietary IRAD/CRAD activity to produce a preliminary design of the engine IR suppression systems including preliminary design drawing, schematics, dimensions and weights. The approach shall take maximun advantage of Sikorsky IRAD/CRAD activity which has generated a substantial data base of flow rig test results for a series of scale model configurations. The Marine assault support mission requires operating at airspeeds and altitudes which make these A/C susceptible to infrared (IR) missile threats. Passive platform signature reduction including propulsion system IR suppression has across the board benefits for A/C survivability since it enhances the effectiveness (i.e. increases the J/S ratios) of the entire compliment of active IRCM equipment. The following considerations will be addressed: (1) range, time on station, payload, (2) power available, power required and flying qualities, (3) mission performance capabilities, (4) logistics and supportability, and (5) full integration with the CH-53E airframe and engine. See note No. 22 -- NAVAIR Synopsis No. 30109-97. (0148)

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