Shipboard Helicopter Handler Extra Low Profile (SHH-ELP) and the Multi-Aircraft Nose/Tail Integrated System (MANTIS)

The Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) is requesting information regarding the replacement of the existing Shipboard Helicopter Handler Extra Low Profile (SHH-ELP) and the Multi-Aircraft Nose/Tail Integrated System (MANTIS) with a new aircraft handler, the Shipboard Helicopter Handler II (SHH-II). The SHH-II should be capable of moving MH-60R and MH-60S helicopters between the flight deck and the hangar bay on both Freedom Class and Independence Class Litoral Combat Ships. The requirements for the SHH-II include dead man type tethered operator controls, zero turning radius, and the ability to lift a weight of up to 8,000 lbs. The purpose of this request for information is to identify potential contractors and gain insight into current commercial or military products and/or design concepts that meet the above requirements. Some key points to consider include: • The SHH-II should be approximately the same size as the MANTIS and/or SHH-ELP. • The SHH-II should have a maximum unloaded speed of 3.0 mph and a maximum loaded speed of 1.5 mph. • The SHH-II should be electric powered via rechargeable batteries. • The SHH-II should have a built-in battery charger that can be connected to a NEMA 5–15P (possibly NEMA 5-20P) receptacle. • The SHH-II should be capable of meeting shipboard vibration, environmental, EMI, shock, and mobility criteria.