Now here's a thought.
It will be summer 2018 before implementation is complete (AW189 operational at Inverness). The original programme, way back at the start of this, had a transition-out for Lot 2 (AW189 bases) starting at Inverness on 31 March 2023.
So the public part of original bid process for the current contract started in November 2011, award was March 2013, and commencement of service April 2015.
NRP10045 UK SAR Schedule 2.5 - Transition and Acceptance shows the following timetable for lot 2 bases.
Inverness - March 2023
Lydd - June 2023
StAthans - Sept 2023
Prestwick - Dec 2024 - oops!?
Lee - March 2024
Is that a misprint for Prestwick? A bit more job security for the lads!
If the contract process goes as before it should go public in November 2019. The DfT hardly has time to draw breath after the AW189 is fully in service before it is time to think about a new contract.
There is provision for an extension of up to two years.
NRP10045 UK SARH General Conditions of Contract, at section 2.2, reads as follows.
"The Department may extend the duration of this Contract for any period and for any combination
of Bases for up to a further twenty four (24) Months from any Expiry Date. The Department shall
exercise this option, for each Base, no later than six (6) Months prior to each Expiry Date."
My guess is that they will extend. If they extended Lot 2 by two years and Lot 1 by one year then they would have a continuous transition programme from 1st April 2025 to 1st April 2027.
Thoughts?
Rumours?
Do you think it might be a good idea to mention search dogs in the contract this time?