JOFOC - GP26 - Redacted Copy.pdf

Testing of their balloons. The Technical Representative has low confidence in the capability of meeting the requirements in the NWS Specification.

The NWS has attempted to find alternative sources of GP26 balloons that are able to meet the specification. On June 14, 2024, an internet search was conducted for companies that manufacture meteorological equipment and a list of potential sources of GP26 Balloons were sent to the Technical Representative for review. On July 1, 2024 the client advised that none of the companies were found to be capable of meeting this requirement and provided the following information:

1. : is a re-seller of scientific instruments and components. As a re-seller of balloons purchased through Kaymont, is authorized to sell to commercial clients. Only Kaymont can sell Totex balloons to the NWS at the quantity required.

2. : is a re-seller of scientific instruments and components. As a re-seller of balloons purchased through Kaymont, is authorized to sell to commercial clients. Only Kaymont can sell Totex balloons to the NWS at the quantity required.

3. : is a re-seller of scientific instruments and components. As a re-seller of balloons purchased through Kaymont, is authorized to sell to commercial clients. Only Kaymont can sell Totex balloons to the NWS at the quantity required.

4. : is a re-seller of scientific instruments and components. They are re-selling antiquated balloons stock. Their website mentions neoprene rubber balloons, which have not been approved or purchased by the National Weather Service since the early 2000s because the manufacturer went out of business.

5. : is a re-seller of scientific instruments and components. They are re-selling Totex balloons they purchased from the only authorized U.S. distributor Kaymont.

6. : is a re-seller of scientific instruments and components. They are re-selling Totex balloons they purchased from the only authorized U.S.

distributor Kaymont.

Based on the results of market research, the government determined that a limited number of companies were available as re-sellers of Totex but none possessed the capability to meet the NWS’ need for GP26 balloons at the required quantity. There are re-sellers of Totex balloons that have existing arrangements to purchase limited Totex balloon stock from Kaymont, but Kaymont’s re-seller agreements with these companies authorize re-selling to commercial clients only. Under this arrangement, Kaymont retains distribution rights to sell directly to the NWS and other government entities such as Defense Logistics Agency. Kaymont is the only responsible source authorized to distribute the required Totex balloons,

9. Any other facts supporting the use of other than full and open competition (FAR 6.303-2(b)(9)).

This contract is necessary to avoid a break in GP26 balloons supporting radiosonde observations which are a critical mission requirement. Kaymont possesses the proven ability to supply GP26 balloons at the 6,500 per month rate and 75-day lead time required to support NWS radiosonde observations. An open competition to complete the work would cause intolerable delay to the NWS Upper Air Program and pose a risk of missing radiosonde observations to the Government. The requirement cannot be modified in any manner to increase competition due to impacting NWS radiosonde observations.

10. A listing of any sources that expressed a written interest in the acquisition (FAR 6.303-2(b)(10)).

A Sources Sought Notice was issued on SAM.gov on May 23, 2024 requesting that parties express their interest in writing to the Contracting Officer. Only Kaymont responded, and no new companies have expressed interest in the requirement. Therefore, there are no new companies available to enter a First Article Test process at this time. The Kaymont capabilities statement was reviewed and Kaymont has been determined capable of meeting the specification.

11. A statement of any actions the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition, if subsequent acquisitions are anticipated (FAR 6.303-2(b)(11)).

The Government will continue to conduct thorough market research to gauge the marketplace capabilities for future requirements and if compatible domestic radiosondes sources are identified, NWS will consider these sources and assess capabilities to determine whether any emergent manufacturers can meet mission requirements.