SpaceX Starshield Aero Terminal Installation

Background
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is conducting market research to determine the potential sources and technical capabilities of industry to provide the installation of a SpaceX Starshield Aero Terminal on its C-37A aircraft.

The goal is to integrate the Starshield system into existing communications systems, enhancing the capabilities of the USCG's Long Range Command and Control Aircraft (LRCCA) fleet, which currently consists of military variants of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation’s G-V and G550 aircraft.

Work Details
The contractor will be responsible for:

1. Installing the SpaceX Starshield Aero Terminal using Nextant Aerospace’s Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) on the USCG’s C-37A by June 1, 2025.

2. Integrating Starshield into existing communications systems, ensuring compatibility with current aircraft topology.

3. Acquiring requisite hardware and performing installation in compliance with FAA regulations.

4. Utilizing updated aviation-approved hardware including a Block 3 Power Supply Unit, harness, and associated connector kits (Starlink Wireless Access Point kit is not required).

5. Removing and relocating existing antennas as necessary, including the #2 VHF blade antenna and UHF SATCOM antenna, while also removing an existing ARC-513 antenna without relocation and providing suitable patch/repair documentation via FAA Form 8110-3.

6. Collaborating with network engineers from SpaceX and USCG to adapt the Starshield system for operation with existing Satcom Direct Routers, which may involve installing additional ethernet routers/switches and modifying configuration settings.

7. Providing comprehensive documentation including wiring diagrams, electrical loads analysis, wire routing reports, structural substantiation reports, instructions for continued airworthiness, EMI test plans, ground test plans, and FAA Form 8110-3 for integration validation.

8. Conducting a test phase of 10 days post-installation to ensure functionality meets communication equipment requirements.

9. Updating aircraft weight and balance data prior to delivery and coordinating with FAA Military Certification Branch for necessary airworthiness reviews.

Place of Performance
The installation will take place on-site at locations designated by the USCG.