Innovative Proposal Processes for High Frequency Radio Group Contract

Innovative Proposal Processes for High Frequency Radio Group Contract

Organization: SPAWAR

Team Name: High Frequency Radio Group Team

Related Acquisition Topic(s): Alpha Contracting, Commercial and Non Developmental Items (CANDI), Integrated Product and Process Development (IPPD)

Description:

High Frequency Radio Group (HFRG)is a communication system that interfaces with other shipboard equipment to support uninterrupted continuous wave, voice and digital communications services as well as tactical and long-haul ship-to-ship, ship-to-submarine, ship-to-aircraft and ship-to-shore communication.

SPAWAR used an innovative approach when buying the new High Frequency Radio Group (HFRG) for the Fleet that saved both time and money. First, SPAWAR gave industry a chance to comment on the draft RFP — so the Navy got the benefit of industry's suggestions and industry got a heads up. Then, to ensure that an NDI approach would receive first consideration, SPAWAR asked the bidders to demonstrate their system as part of their proposal package. SPAWAR also gave the offerors the flexibility to deviate from the specification as long as the impact of proposed change was advantageous to the government. The result is three ships (CVN 74, CG 47 and LHA 2) are already on their way to having a brand new, state-of-the-art communication system — and more will follow. Further, on the ships being backfitted with HFRG (as are the LHA 2 and CG 47), the new system will fit into the spaces vacated by the system it replaces.

SPAWAR

High Frequency Radio Group Team