ATT 4_Acid Grade Fluorspar_JA_Redacted.pdf

This document is a Justification for Other than Full and Open Competition from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract for acid grade fluorspar (acidspar). DLA Strategic Materials intends to issue a sole source IDIQ contract to ARES Strategic Mining (ARES) over a five-year period from ARES Strategic Mining, the only available domestic source of acidspar. The estimated contract value is redacted, but the procurement is critical for semiconductor manufacturing and metallurgy. The justification cites national security needs and relies on statutory authority under 10 U.S.C. § 3204(a)(3)(A), which allows non-competitive procedures when necessary to maintain a facility, producer, or manufacturer in case of a national emergency.

The document outlines that ARES is the only major non-Chinese acidspar supplier to the US, with an active and permitted mining operation. Market research was conducted through various government agencies, including the Office of the Secretary of Defense and U.S. Geological Survey. The acquisition will be executed as a Request for Proposals (RFP) under FAR Part 12 and Part 15 procedures, with a planned two-week solicitation period. The Contracting Officer anticipates the final price will be fair and reasonable, based on cost comparisons and an independent government cost estimate. DLA Strategic Materials is also seeking to develop domestic acidspar capabilities and has issued a Broad Agency Announcement to seek funding for qualified manufacturers.