JA - Fluid Core Assembly 2-26-2026_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition under 10 U.S.C. § 3204(a)(1) for a single-source procurement with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support, Construction and Equipment Supply Chain.

The contracting activity seeks to procure a Fluid Core Assembly (NSN 4420-01-281-2470, Part Number 534-09630-000) manufactured exclusively by Aqua-Chem, Inc. The requirement is for seven units annually over a two-year base period with three one-year option periods. The justification asserts that Aqua-Chem is the only approved source because the fluid core assembly is uniquely designed to fit a specific equipment platform in accordance with military specifications. Aqua-Chem is identified as the sole qualified vendor to manufacture the fluid cooler with specialized material compliance designed to withstand harsh, corrosive, and high-vibration maritime environments. The company is the only vendor approved by the Engineering Support Activity (ESA) to provide this cooler to the Government and is stated to be the only cooler approved to meet the Government's specific operational needs. The justification notes that alternative fluid coolers are commercially available but states that vendors submitting alternate offers would be required to submit a formal Source Approval Request (SAR) package to the ESA for evaluation. Market research was conducted from August 22, 2025, to September 10, 2025, and a Sources Sought Notice was issued on July 21, 2025, and closed August 21, 2025. Internet searches found no additional manufacturers of comparable fluid coolers. The solicitation will include DLAD Procurement Notes M06 and L04 to encourage submission of alternative offers. The justification was signed by Contracting Officer Jabari Martin on February 18, 2026, and approved by DLA Troop Support Competition Advocate Maciej Okulicz-Kozaryn.