ACQ-26-H99 DF Fiber Interrogator_Redacted.pdf

This is a Determination & Findings (D&F) document justifying a single-source acquisition for the Air Force Test Center (AFTC-PZZF).

The acquisition is for a Bomber Data Lab Fiber Optic Interrogator and fiber optic sensing system required to validate high-density temperature and strain measurements, combining fiber optic sensing with high-speed data acquisition for real-time shape sensing measurement. The specific items include: one AGTR-NG4 (4-channel) Interrogator, one 4 x 8 FBG Array Fanout, four FBG Polyimide Sensing Fibers, and eight engineering assembly hours for multi-fiber array design. The contracting activity is AFTC-PZZF, with the Contracting Officer as approval authority. The determination is dated September 2, 2026.

The justification for sole-source procurement is based on RFO 11.204(a)(2)(ii) (Brand Name), citing that the PhotonFirst AGTR-NG4 Aerospace Interrogator system is the only known pre-certified, flight-qualified technology meeting the dynamic flight-test parameters required by the Bomber Data Lab. Market research confirmed that alternative technologies lack the necessary real-time, high-definition shape-sensing capabilities for active flight-test aerodynamics and wing-deflection tracking, and utilizing alternative systems would require expensive laboratory qualification testing with high risk of airworthiness certification failure. The document states that use of this specific brand name or equal purchase description is essential to the Government's requirements.