Netherlands – Support equipment – Replacement of the Line Of Communication Bridge (LOCB)

Within the Netherlands Ministry of Defence (NL MOD) there is a need for a LOCB system, that replaces the current ‘Bailey’ system that is technical and operational obsolete. The project Replacement of the LOCB shall foresee in this replacement. The LOCB system is a military bridge system and will be used to overcome a barrier/gap. To support a 150m LOCB over water, the WWGC system will be used. Military Engineers have to build the LOCB both in hostile and safe environments. From an operational deployement point of view the LOCB has to cover that all military transport is able to pass the barrier in order to link up with own troops. The LOCB can be used in a wide area of operations and in addition can be used in case of a natural disaster. The goal is that the NL MOD will have their own bridge capacity, including a stockpile, to fulfil the different tasks in a short notice to move. The requirements for the LOCB are connected to the NATO requirements AEP-3.12.1.5 and specified national regulations of the Netherlands. Interoperability will be guarantueed due to the fact that the system is a Military of the Shelf (MOTS) product and already in use at NATO partners. The scope of delivery consists of the delivery of 7 LOCB systems and 1 WWGC system, whereby the Contracting Authority has the right to invoke optional additional delivery of a maximum of 7 LOCB systems and/or 1 WWGC system within 60 months after acceptance of the last goods delivered under the agreement. For the logistic transport and storage of the 7 LOCB systems the scope shall include the load carriers 20ft, 40ft containers and 20ft NATO flatracks. Furthermore, an Initial Spare Parts Package (ISPP) for three years, Special Tools and Test Equipment (ST&TE), documentation and the provision of training are also included in the scope of delivery. The Contracting Authority will mainly have NL MOD carry out the maintenance of these systems itself. To support these maintenance activities to the systems the contract shall include the delivery of spare parts, components, ST&TE and rendering of repeting training and logistical support during the Life Of Type (LOT) of 30 years, at request.