USAF issues RFP for combat rescue helicopter programme

The US Air Force (USAF) has floated a request for proposal (RFP) for the combat rescue helicopter (CRH) programme, which is designed to replace its ageing Sikorsky-built HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter fleet.

Posted by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition (SAF/AQ), the RFP details an integrated, capability-based, best-value approach, and also features specific factors for assessment of capabilities and inherent risks in each offer.

The RFP also highlights four programme requirements, which include hover performance, combat radius, payload and cabin space.

A scaled-back version of the air force's previously cancelled CSAR-X programme, the CRH programme seeks the production and delivery of 112 search and rescue aircraft at a not-to-exceed cost of $6.848bn.

The aircraft will primarily be deployed for personnel recovery operations in hostile locations, humanitarian missions, civil search and rescue, disaster relief, casualty and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), as well as non-combatant evacuation operations.

The CRH project is expected to replace the Pave Hawks with a wide range of new air vehicles, training systems and product support elements, which are required by the air force for personnel-recovery missions.

Covering supply of 141 helicopters, the $15bn CSAR-X contest was called off by USAF following persistent protests, amended proposals and prolonged delays in April 2009.

The new contract is expected to be awarded in late 2013, and will include a performance period of approximately 13 years for development, production and initial sustainment activities.

Boeing CH-47 Chinook, which won the original CSAR-X contest in 2006, Northrop Grumman/AgustaWestland AW101, Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey and Sikorsky/Lockheed Martin UH-60M helicopters represent likely contenders for the programme.

The Sikorsky HH-60G Pave Hawk is a twin turboshaft engine helicopter used for personnel recovery missions during day or night, peace-time operations, including civil search and rescue, international assistance and counter-drug activities.