Polar Helicopter Project

Trade Agreement: NONE
Tendering Procedures: All interested suppliers may submit a bid
Competitive Procurement Strategy: N/A - P&A/LOI Only
Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement: No
Nature of Requirements: 

Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is seeking Industry feedback regarding the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) Polar Helicopter Project.

The intent of this Request for Information (RFI) process is to remain open until a formal solicitation process is released in the future.

This initial release is to publish questions for Industry to respond to. Industry is requested to review these questions and provide answers to PSPC on or before February 28,2024.

PSPC intends to release future engagement activities through amendments to this RFI process. Each subsequent amendment will clearly identify the information Canada is requesting and the requested Industry response date. 

This purpose of this RFI format is to:

a. provide a continuous single point of official project communication with industry;

b. present draft RFP documents to solicit industry comments and feedback;

c. collaborate with industry on all elements of the requirement such as technical, sustainment, in service support, initial cadre training, possible ITB/VP’s, and the resulting contracts terms and conditions;

d. answer questions from industry to ensure all interested participants receive the same information;

e. provide schedule updates; and

f. hold industry meetings and engagement activities as necessary.

The CCG is acquiring two new polar icebreaker vessels. These vessels are being built in Canada with anticipated delivery of the first vessel in 2030.

The new polar icebreakers will be Canada’s flagship vessels in the arctic fulfilling many critical roles including sovereignty, search and rescue, science, and icebreaking.

The CCG requires up to four helicopters (polar helicopters) to support the polar icebreaker missions. Each polar icebreaker will be capable of  supporting two helicopters onboard in the hangar. In order to ensure that the helicopter, aircrew, and the in-service support are ready for polar icebreaker operations, the CCG will require the polar helicopters to be delivered in 2028.
The Polar Helicopters will operate from the CCG polar icebreakers year round in the Canadian Arctic, in both the Southern and Northern Domestic Airspace. They will also conduct operations at extended flight range and/or endurance from the polar icebreakers.
The project is seeking industry availability and costing information on acquisition, sparing, sustainment, and training options.
The Polar Helicopter Project is not eligible under Canada’s international trade agreements, and is only eligible under the Canada Free Trade Agreement.

The Crown retains the right to negotiate with suppliers on any procurement.

Documents may be submitted in either official language of Canada.

Delivery Date: Above-mentioned

The Crown retains the right to negotiate with suppliers on any procurement.

Documents may be submitted in either official language of Canada.