Attachment 3 - BNJ Eaker Center CISCO SIPR Equipment Redacted.pdf

This is a Determination & Findings (D&F) document for a sole source procurement by Maxwell Air Force Base (AFB 42 CONS/PKB).

The acquisition procures network switches and associated hardware to establish a secure, classified network environment within classrooms at the Eaker Center (Building M1404) to support Thunderbolt II initiative renovations. The requirement includes seven KVM switches, four Cisco network switches, four IPS secure containers, and various cables and patch panels. The specific equipment specified is Cisco Network Switches (Part Number C9200-24P-4G-A++), which is captured in CSRD 2026-00086 and approved/dated June 15, 2026.

The contracting officer determined that sole source procurement is justified under RFO 11.204(a)(2)(ii) (Brand Name) authority. The findings establish that Cisco brand items are essential because the Air Force network infrastructure (AFNET) is standardized on Cisco equipment, and utilizing Cisco switches is critical to ensure seamless integration, interoperability, and compatibility with existing network architecture and management systems such as GEMSS for licensing. The standardization prevents operational conflicts and ensures that the 42nd Communications Squadron technicians, trained in Cisco-based environments, can fully support and maintain the equipment. The document notes that only Cisco equipment will satisfy the Cisco Network Switch portion of this requirement. LaChandra Thompson, GS-13 USAF Contracting Officer, approved the determination on September 8, 2026.