A02 Brand Name or Equal Memo sleep systems Redacted.pdf

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CUDEPARTMENTT OFF THEE AIRR FORCEE

HEADQUARTERSS 133RDD AIRLIFTT WINGG (AMC))

SAINTT PAULL MINNESOTA

27 July 2026

MEMORANDUM FOR 133 SFS

FROM: MSG/MSC

133rd Mission Support Group 610 Militia Drive Saint Paul, MN 55111-4116

SUBJECT: Justification for "Brand Name or Equal" Specification for Personal Sleep Systems.

The following justification supports the use of a "Brand Name or Equal" description for the procurement of 74 Personal Sleep Systems, specifically the **Regular VARICOM Complete Sleep System Item #SJ050080** or an equivalent product. This approach is necessary to ensure the sleep systems meet the Government's operational requirements and provide optimal performance in the intended environment.

Requiring Activity: 133rd Security Forces Squadron

Anticipated cost:

Description: see item 1 below and attached SOW

Posting requirements: Brand Name or Equal justification to be posted with the solicitation

Market research conducted: multiple internet searches and reaching out to vendors directly identifying potential sources.

Actions that may be taken to remove or overcome barriers to competition in subsequent acquisitions: The use of “Or Equal” does not restrict competition but allows the government a way to describe the agency’s need efficiently and effectively.

1. Description and Rationale for Specific Detailed Requirements: The technical specifications outlined in the solicitation are essential to meet mission-critical operational needs. The key description for the requirements are as follows:

a. Sleep System (Delta bag, Gamma bag and Bivy) Performance and Portability

1. Temperature Rating from 30 degrees F to -50 degrees F

2. Oversized rectangular footbox for use with boots on

3. Double layer, differential cut

4. Water Resistant

5. Breathable

b. Stuff Sack Performance and Portability

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1. Compresses to smaller pack size than standard military system

2. Waterproof

c. Color:

1. Urban Gray and Foliage Green or similar neutral color, to be approved by the government

- A neutral color ensures the sleep system remains consistent with military uniform in various environments and is aligned with operational requirements.

2. Why "Brand Name or Equal" Is Necessary: While the ** Regular VARICOM Complete Sleep System Item #SJ050080** is identified as the "brand name" product, the solicitation allows for "equal" products to promote competition while ensuring the following:

1. Performance and Compatibility

- The detailed specifications are tied to mission-specific needs. Allowing

"equal" products ensures other manufacturers can compete, provided their products meet or exceed the technical and functional requirements.

2. Operational Efficiency

- The specified features and technical requirements reflect the minimum acceptable standards necessary for safe, reliable, and efficient operation in the intended environments.

3. Fair Competition

- A "brand name or equal" approach ensures that the Government does not restrict competition unnecessarily, in compliance with FAR 11.102(a). which allows for brand name or equal descriptions when essential characteristics are clearly described.

3. Statutory Authority: The use of "brand name or equal" is consistent with the Revolutionary FAR Overall-Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (RFO-DFARS) requirements:

- RFO DFARS 211.204 Items peculiar to one manufacturer.

To partially implement section 888 of fiscal year (FY) 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) (Pub. L. 114–328), a justification and approval is required to use brand name or equal purchase descriptions—

(2) When using simplified procedures for certain commercial products and commercial services at FAR 12.201-1 (see part 212).

- RFO DFARS 212.102-70 Restricting competition.

See PGI 212.102-70 for guidance on promoting competition.

b) In accordance with section 888(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Pub. L. 114-328), the documentation addressed in FAR

12.102 is required to use brand name or equal descriptions or proprietary specifications and standards.

4. Conclusion: The "brand name or equal" specification is justified to ensure the procurement of Personal Sleep Systems that meet the Government's operational, safety, and performance requirements. Solicitation allows for equivalent products to encourage competition while ensuring the required features are met. The detailed specifications are essential to meet mission-critical needs and align with FAR requirements.

Requiring Activity: I certify that the supporting data under my cognizance, which are included in the justification, are accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Contracting Officer: I hereby determine that the anticipated cost to the government for this contract action will be Fair and Reasonable. I certify that this Justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

JASON M MOSHER, SMSgt, USAF 133rd Contracting Officer

MOSHER.JASON.M

ICHAEL.129318430

Digitally signed by

MOSHER.JASON.MICHAEL.129

3184301 Date: 2026.08.19 10:21:06 -05'00'