InfraRed Search and Track (IRST) Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) Period of Performance Extension

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) plans to award a Cost Plus Incentive Fee contract to McDonnell Douglas Corporation, a subsidiary of Boeing, for the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase of the Infrared Search and Track (IRST) system integration into the F/A-18 E/F Block II aircraft. This contract encompasses the design, development, fabrication, testing, and integration of an IRST system within the F/A-18 E/F Block II weapon system, including the delivery of three Engineering Development Model units. Given MDC's unique role as the sole designer, developer, manufacturer, and supplier of the F/A-18 E/F Block II aircraft weapon system, they possess the specialized knowledge, technical data, facilities, and expertise necessary to execute this complex task efficiently without impacting the aircraft's operational capabilities or causing delays in meeting Navy requirements. The contract reflects the continuation of MDC's involvement as the contractor for the IRST Technology Development effort, emphasizing the importance of their proprietary F/A-18 engineering data and resources to fulfill the government's needs in a timely and cost-effective manner. The work will be performed in Saint Louis, Missouri, and the Naval Air Systems Command office overseeing the contract is located in Patuxent River, Maryland. Key contracting points of contact include Contracting Officer John E. Britt and Contract Specialist John R. Tomechko. This initiative is critical to advancing the capabilities of the F/A-18 E/F Block II aircraft through the integration of advanced IRST technology, enhancing its operational effectiveness.