NAVICP use of Qualification Requirements for Catapult Trough Covers

The Naval Inventory Control Point (NAVICP) intends to procure and refurbish a family of items found in the steam catapult systems of aircraft carriers using a qualification requirement per the provisions of FAR 9.2. The items are commonly called - catapult trough covers. Catapult trough covers are a critical part of the steam catapult systems. Usually 106 of the six-foot long covers are needed to equip just one catapult. The trough covers make up the top of the flight deck over the catapult and contain a - C channel under the deck that the shuttle rides during launching. The shuttle connects to a steam-powered ram that pushes the landing gear of the aircraft during the launch. The covers are made of high strength steel and weigh over a ton. There are critical dimensions on the cover that have tolerances measured in the thousands of an inch. If the cover is not in dimensi onal conformance, a failed launch may occur and there is a strong possibility that a flight crew could be lost. This is a difficult item to manufacture and refurbish. When the NAVICP purchases new catapult trough covers or contracts for the refurbishment of catapult trough covers, only sources that have been approved under the qualification requirements will be considered for award. Contractors interested in manufacturing and/or refurbishing catapult trough covers may request a copy of the specification and drawing package from the Contract Specialist at NAVICP: Naval Inventory Control Point Code 0211.7 5450 Carlisle Pike, PO Box 2020 Mechanicsburg PA 17055 Ph. +1 (555) 000-0000 Email contact@example.gov Or from the engineering activity, Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Lakehurst, Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Code 4.8.10. 1 Highway 547 Lakehurst, NJ 08733-5090 Ph. +1 (555) 000-0000 Email contact@example.gov Due to the military critical technology contained in the specifications and drawings, a completed and approved DD Form 2345, entitled Military Critical Technical Data Agreement, must accompany the contractor's request for documents. If a contractor desires to be qualified in the refurbishment of the catapult trough covers, a catapult trough cover in need of refurbishment will be provided by the Government. All further actions regarding the qualification process will be between the contractor and Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Lakehurst. Once a contractor becomes qualified, NAWCAD will notify NAVICP. At that point the newly qualified firm will be included on the mailing list for any trough cover solicitations and will be considered for possible contract award.