The User requires a turbine-driven air start capability, to support the operation and maintenance of designated aircraft types. The capability will be required to support the enabling of the Strategic Base; fulfil standing commitments; development and maintenance of a contingent capability; and contingent operations commensurate with the direction provided in Defence Strategic Direction 2016, the RAF Command Plan and the requirements of Joint Force 2025.

The scope of the requirement is to replace the current RAF fleet of Houchin 165 and 230 Air Start equipment that have passed their planned out of service date (OSD). The user requires a minimum fleet of 15 new Air Starters to provide an engine start and environmental control system (ECS) maintenance capability for the designated aircraft types operated by Headquarters Air Command (HQ AIR), at UK Main Operating Bases (MOBs), and Permanent Joint Operating Bases (PJOBs) and the deployed operating environment.

The scope of the requirement will also include through life support of the 15x new Air Starters, and for the existing fleet of 21 x Rheinmetall MSU 200/6 T Air Start Units purchased in 2009 and in service with the Royal Air Force’s Typhoon Fleet.

The Contract will include the following Work Packages:

WP 1 – Project Management & Core Post Design Services (PDS)

WP 2 – Test Evaluation, Acceptance & Equipment Delivery

WP 3 – Integrated Logistic Support (ILS)

WP 4 – Provision of Spares

WP 5 – Technical Support

WP 6 – Maintenance and Repair

WP 7 - Training 

WP 8 – Technical Publications

WP 9 – Obsolescence Management

A Draft Statement of Requirement (SOR) is available for review as part of the attachments to the Dynamic Pre Qualification Questionnaire (DPQQ).