58 -- BATTLEFIELD AIRBORNE COMMUNICATIONS NODE (BACN) EXTENSION

ESC/HNAK plans to issue a sole source contract modification to Northrop Grumman to extend operation and logistics support for the Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) system payloads. This contract covers continued operation and maintenance of three E-11A aircraft, one EQ-4B UAV, and two additional EQ-4B UAVs equipped with BACN payloads. The support for the additional system payloads will commence in June 2012 and extend through September 2015 with option periods of no longer than 12 months. The modification focuses on maintaining BACN payloads, modifications to platform "A" and "B" kits, and operating ground stations, while maintenance for the aircraft and UAV platforms themselves will be handled under a separate contract by both Air Force and contractor personnel. The scope also includes the provision of repair parts for the payloads, control stations, and ancillary equipment necessary for system operation. Work will be conducted at three undeveloped U.S. military facilities located overseas, involving the handling of cryptographic equipment as part of the mission. The effort aims to ensure continuous and reliable airborne communications support critical to battlefield operations using BACN technology.