Attch 5 - Justification - Approval - Core Node Switches Brand Name.pdf

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JB, MDL AFIN Core Node Switches
Solicitation number
FA448425Q0045
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This Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification document details a $1,764,425.71 procurement of CISCO Core Node Switch equipment for the 87th Communications Squadron at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. The acquisition is a 100% Small Business Set-Aside, with three qualified small businesses identified: Cluster Technology Group (Veteran-Owned), E-Logic, Inc. (Small Business), and Sterling Computers Corporation (Woman-Owned Small Business). The requirement is brand-name specific due to the existing network infrastructure's strict compatibility requirements, with CISCO being the only approved manufacturer that meets the Air Force Information Network (AFIN) and Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC) standards.

The procurement involves 14 CISCO Core Node Switches, including multiple switch models and associated equipment like power supplies and transceivers. Market research was conducted through GSA eBuy and SAM.gov, with a Sources Sought notice issued on July 17, 2025. The justification emphasizes that switching to non-CISCO equipment would require a complete network redesign, potentially costing approximately $6 million and causing significant operational disruptions. The contracting activity is the 87th Contracting Squadron, with funding from procurement funds provided by the 87th Communications Squadron, and a projected delivery of 60 days after contract award.

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Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION

July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 1 of 6July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 1 of 6

NOTE: If a Justification was approved for the preceding acquisition, a copy of the approved Justification for the predecessor action must be included in the staff package for approval of the instant Justification. This applies to Justification staff packages that are submitted for review and approval at a level above the contracting officer. The predecessor Justification will be used as a reference document by the approving official.

Is this a new or amended J&A Document? New Amended ( Prior to Award Only! )

Is this a Bridge Action as defined in the AF Bridge Action Reduction Plan? Yes No

Funding level for this acquisition: >SAT and < $750K > $750K and < $15M

Contracting Activity: 87th Contracting Squadron/PKB, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ 08641

Purchase Request / Local ID Number: F3A3L35142AC01

Program / Project (and PE, if applicable): Core Node Switches

Program Type (PEO or Other Contracting): Other Contracting

Authority: DAFFARS 5313.501 - 10 U.S.C. 3572, Implementation of Simplified Acquisition Procedures (41 U.S.C. 1901)

DAFFARS 5313.501 - 10 U.S.C. 3403, Special Emergency Procurement Authority (41 U.S.C. 1903)

Estimated Contract Cost (including options): $1,764,425.71 Justification Type: Class Individual

COORDINATION ( DAFFARS 5306.304(a) ) Sign and Save Procedure

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Date

05 Sep 2025

Project Lead / Program Mgr / Requiring Activity Kaitlin Diaz

87 CS/SCXP, (609) 754-4333

Signature

X

Date

05 Sep 2025

Contracting Officer Lizbette Zalybniuk

87 CONS/PKB, (609) 754-4996

Signature

X

Date

02 Sep 2025

Local Legal Reviewer Kyle J. Paladino

87 ABW/JA, (609) 754-8205

Signature

X

Date

05 Sep 2025

Chief of the Contracting Office (COCO) James E. Kelly

87 CONS/CD, (609) 754-2976

Signature

X

APPROVAL (DAFFARS 5306.304(a) )

Date

08 Sep 2025

Competition Advocate Susan R. Madison, NH-IV, DAFC Deputy Director of Contracting, OL-AMC Air Force Installation Contracting Center (AFICC) Command Competition Advocate (AMC)

Signature

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 2 of 6July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 2 of 6

I. Contracting Activity.

Department of the Air Force, Air Mobility Command (AMC), 87th Contracting Squadron/PKB, 2402 Vandenberg Avenue (Bldg. 2402), Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL), NJ 08641. The Contracting Officer for this requirement is Ms.

Lizbette Zalybniuk, (609)754-4996.

II. Nature and/or description of the action being processed.

The Government has initiated a new requirement warranting a Brand Name Justification and Approval (J&A) implementing FAR 13.501(a) Sole source(including brand name) acquisitions. This J&A supports the United States Air Force (USAF) requirement for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) CISCO, the sole approved provider of Core Node Switch Equipment for the JBMDL system, deployed under the Air Force Information Network (AFIN) program. Due to the unique structural characteristics of the existing Core Node Switch infrastructure its designation as a mandated product on the Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC) approved product list, only OEM CISCO devices are capable of meeting operational requirement as any other device would compromise network integrity as they are not compatible nor proven to have interoperability with current infrastructure. CISCO's OEM solution delivers a secure, high availibility infrastructure with multi-tiered network connectivity across multiple facilities, including: Hangar 1, 120, 2217, 1730, 2401, 1901, 1738, 2906, 1907A, 3369, 5656, 5321, 5418 and 5940. Acquiring CISCO Core Node Switches will enable critical updates to both current hardware and software components of end point network equipment, thereby enhancing the reliability, security, and long-term sustainability of the JBMDL AFIN network. This procurement will be executed under a new Firm Fixed Price contract utilizing FAR Part 13.5 Procedures.

III. Description of supplies/services required to meet agency needs.

The 87th Communications Squadron has a Bona Fide Need for 14 AFIN Core Node Switches for this Fiscal year (FY25).

However, the current market lead time for this product is 60 days after award and may result in delivery in the subsequent fiscal year (FY26). IAW US Code, Title 31, Section 1502, we are permitted to " consider normal production lead-time in determining bona fide need for a purchase". Based on the fact this is a FY25 need, the product required has a lead time of 60 days and that no other vendor can manufacture this product prior to the ensuing fiscal year (FY25) the lead time exception applies. As such, it is my determination that this requirement is a Bona Fide Need for the current 2025 FY.

The 87th Communications Squadron is requesting the acquisition of Core Node Switch network equipment. The pre-existing CISCO Switch equipment complies with the Joint Interoperability Test Center (JITC) Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) Trade Agreements Act (TAA) utilizing CISCO hardware, the only system that utilizes an Interim Certificate to Operate (ICTO), supporting Net Ready-Key Performance Parameter certifications and products, specifically listed on the Air Force Approved Products List (APL). The current Core Node Switch network operating on JBMDL is the approved CISCO system installed through the Base Information Transport Infrastructure program. Benefits of purchasing CISCO Switch equipment include: Replacement of fourteen aging, end of lifecycle network switches.

Acquisition is also critical for maintaining life cycle support for the Air Force Information Network program, ensuring the most current hardware and software versions for the end point network equipment, thus ensuring reliability, sustainability and preventing network system failure/ outages across JBMDL.

This requirement is funded utilizing 3400 procurement funds, provided by the 87th Communications Squadron

This requirement is for the purchase and delivery of new Core Node Switch network equipment and materials documented below.

Total breakout/estimated costs for the JBMDL, Core Node Switch equipment.

Description Qty Unit Price Extended Price

C9606R-48Y24C-BN-A TAA 4 Each $113,627.93 $454,511.72

CAB-CONSOLE-RJ45 4 Each $117.99 $471.96

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C9600-SUP-1/2 4 Each $46,013.17 $184,052.68

C9600-DNA-A-3Y

(Included in C9600-SUP-1/2) 4 Each $0.00 $0.00

C9500-48Y4C-A TAA 20 Each $28,563.56 $571,271.20

C9K-PWR-650WAC-R/2 20 Each $2,656.36 $53,127,20

C9500-DNA-A-3Y

(Included in C9500-48V4C-A-TAA) 20 Each $0.00 $0.00

QSFP-100G-ZR4-S 4 Each $35,084.00 $140,336.00

QSFP-100G-CU1M 24 Each $383.45 $9,202.80

QSFP-100G-LR4-S 28 Each $4,883.00 $136,724.00

SFP-10G-LR-S 80 Each $2,359.65 $188,772.00

C9600-LC-48YL++TAA 1 Each $25,956.15 $25,956.15

Total estimated value for the JBMDL Core Node Switch equipment: $1,764,425.71

Type of Appropriation/Funding: 3400

Projected Delivery: 60 Days after Award of Contract

IV. Statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition.

DAFFARS 5313.501 10 U.S.C. 3572, Implementation of Simplified Acquisition Procedures (41 U.S.C. 1901)

V. Demonstration that the contractor's unique qualifications or nature of the acquisition requires the use of the authority cited above (applicability of authority).

Pursuant to FAR 13.501(a), the items in question are determined to be unique to sole source(including brand name)— CISCO. This regulation permits solicitation from only one vendor when the contracting officer concludes that the circumstances surrounding the procurement justify limiting competition. Such circumstances may include urgency, exclusive licensing arrangements, brand-name requirements, or industrial mobilization considerations.

CISCO, as the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), is the developer of the proprietary hardware currently deployed across Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) facilities. The existing infrastructure relies on CISCO-certified Core Node Switch equipment to maintain secure, reliable, and interoperable communications across the entire installation.

Procuring CISCO-branded components is essential to ensure compatibility with the current system architecture, minimize integration risks, and uphold the operational integrity of the Joint Base-wide communication network.

This brand name justification for Core Node Switch equipment is based on the existing CISCO infrastructure that supports the Air Force Information Network (AFIN) at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL). The current network architecture is built upon CISCO Core Node Switch devices, which are listed on the mandated Approved Product List (APL) and certified for use within DoD environments. To maintain interoperability, cybersecurity compliance, and operational continuity, it is essential to procure CISCO-branded equipment that integrates seamlessly with the existing infrastructure. Substituting non-CISCO components would introduce unacceptable risks to network performance, security

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 4 of 6July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 4 of 6 posture, and mission assurance.

Due to the structural characteristics of the Core Node system currently in place at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL), the only compatible access points are CISCO-manufactured devices. The existing infrastructure is built entirely on CISCO Core Node Switch equipment, which is listed on the mandated Approved Product List (APL) and certified for use within the Air Force Information Network (AFIN). As such, the procurement of CISCO brand name equipment is essential to maintain network integrity, interoperability, and cybersecurity compliance. Introducing an alternative brand would necessitate a complete redesign and replacement of the Core Node Switch system—an action not included in the current JBMDL requirement. Such a substitution would significantly disrupt operations, require extensive reengineering, and trigger additional approval processes. The estimated timeline for full system replacement and re-certification could extend by up to one year, posing unacceptable delays to mission-critical communications. Therefore, CISCO brand name equipment is the only viable solution to meet the operational needs of JBMDL without compromising the existing network topography or introducing undue risk and delay.

Deviation from the Brand Name Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), CISCO, would necessitate significant modifications to the existing Risk Management Framework (RMF) network package. The current CISCO-based Core Node Switch infrastructure is tightly integrated with the Air Force Information Network (AFIN) and certified under existing RMF protocols. Introducing an alternative brand would invalidate these certifications and trigger a full reauthorization process. Moreover, pursuing a non-CISCO solution would compel a complete removal and replacement of the Core Node Switch network. This action falls outside the scope of the current JBMDL requirement and would incur substantial costs not accounted for in the original acquisition plan. Even after full replacement, the requirement owner would likely face the same interoperability challenges during sustainment, ultimately necessitating a return to CISCO brand name equipment.

The total estimated cost of duplicative efforts associated with full system replacement is approximately $6 million. This figure underscores the financial and operational impracticality of deviating from the CISCO brand name solution.

Based on comprehensive market research and consultation with subject matter experts, the requirement for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) CISCO products is firmly established. Procuring alternative access point (AP) equipment would not only delay the acquisition timeline and result in substantial duplication of cost, but would also compromise the integrity of the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL) network. Non-CISCO devices are incompatible with the existing infrastructure and lack proven interoperability, which would lead to significant outages and pose a serious risk to mission success. Furthermore, deviation from the CISCO brand would necessitate a complete redesign of the Core Node Switch network and require resources beyond the capabilities of local JBMDL technicians. The estimated cost of full system replacement is approximately $6 million, excluding additional labor, testing, and approval efforts. Even after replacement, the requirement owner would likely face renewed brand name constraints during sustainment to preserve interoperability. Therefore, procurement of CISCO Core Node Switch equipment and approval of this brand name justification is in the best interest of the government, ensuring continuity, cost-efficiency, and mission assurance across JBMDL’s critical communications infrastructure.

VI. Description of efforts made to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable.

In accordance with 87th Communications Squadron policy, the requirement for Core Node Switches must be met using CISCO-branded equipment. Market research indicates that multiple vendors are capable of supplying CISCO-specific Core Node Switches, ensuring a competitive procurement environment. As such, the solicitation will be published on SAM.gov to promote maximum competition. Although this is a brand-name-specific requirement, CISCO products align with Department of Defense cybersecurity standards and allow for participation from a broad range of qualified suppliers.

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

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VII. Determination by the Contracting Officer that the anticipated cost to the Government will be fair and reasonable.

Based on market research conducted by the 87th Contracting Squadron (87 CONS), it is anticipated that a minimum of three quotes will be submitted in response to the Request for Quote (RFQ). All submissions will be evaluated for technical acceptability in accordance with the salient characteristics outlined in the Statement of Work. Should adequate competition not be achieved, an alternative price analysis method will be applied in accordance with FAR 13.106-3 to ensure pricing remains fair and reasonable. Additionally, all received quotes will be given equitable consideration, and the award will be made in accordance with the selection criteria specified in the RFQ.

VIII. Description of the market research conducted and the results, or a statement of the reasons market research was not conducted.

On 12 June 2025, the government issued a Seeking Sources notice for CISCO Core Node Switches via the GSA eBuy website, open for a period of eight (8) calendar days. This notice served to inform potential industry vendors of the forthcoming acquisition and to solicit capability statements from those able to meet the government’s requirements. A total of five responses were received. Upon detailed review, it was determined that many of the proposed Core Node Switch items were classified as “Open Market” and therefore could not be procured through Small Business vendor GSA schedules. As a result, a Sources Sought notice was subsequently posted to the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) on 17 July 2025 under NAICS code 334210. Three small business respondents demonstrated the capability to provide CISCO-branded Core Node Switch equipment. Based on the availability of qualified small business CISCO retailers, it is recommended that the government pursue this requirement as a 100% Small Business Set-Aside on SAM.gov. In accordance with FAR 5.102(a)(6), the Brand Name Justification will be published alongside the Request for Quote (RFQ) in the Government-wide Point of Entry (GPE).

IX. Any other facts supporting the use of Other Than Full and Open Competition.

Due to CISCO Systems, Inc.’s ownership of the proprietary software and patented technologies integral to the Core Node Switch equipment and components utilized by the 87th Communications Squadron across Joint Base McGuire-Dix- Lakehurst (JB MDL), it is not feasible to develop a Statement of Work that would support full and open competition. The brand-specific nature of the requirement inherently limits compatibility and interoperability with non-CISCO products, thereby necessitating a brand-name acquisition strategy.

X. List of any sources that expressed, in writing, an interest in the acquisition.

In response to the Sources Sought Notice, the following small businesses demonstrated the capability to provide CISCO Core Node Switch equipment:

1. Cluster Technology Group 1505 Grand Concourse, Apt 6H Bronx, NY 10452 (Veteran-Owned Business)

2. E-Logic, Inc. 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 7000 Washington, D.C. 20006 (Small Business)

3. Sterling Computers Corporation 303 Centennial Drive North Sioux City, SD 57049 (Woman-Owned Small Business)

These responses support the feasibility of setting aside the requirement for CISCO Core Node Switches as a 100% Small Business Set-Aside under the applicable NAICS code.

XI. A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition before making subsequent acquisitions for the supplies or services required.

The 87th Contracting Squadron remains committed to promoting robust competition and will continue conducting market

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items

July 2025 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION Page 6 of 6 research to identify additional sources capable of supplying CISCO Core Node Switch equipment. This includes the periodic posting of Seeking Sources notices on GSA eBuy and SAM.gov to engage potential vendors and assess market capabilities. All Core Node Switch equipment purchases are coordinated with the 87th Communications Squadron to ensure operational compatibility and mission alignment. While the requirement is brand-name specific, it is not anticipated to restrict competition within the commercial marketplace. Market research has confirmed the existence of multiple small businesses that are fully qualified CISCO distributors, thereby supporting competitive acquisition strategies within the small business community. CISCO Core Node Switch equipment, along with its associated certifications, products, and tools, is listed on the Air Force Approved Products List (APL), affirming its authorization for use across Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JBMDL). The government intends to continue utilizing CISCO-branded systems, with no immediate plans to replace the currently installed Core Node Switch network infrastructure. Although brand-name requirements inherently limit competition, future evaluation of Joint Interoperability Test Command (JITC)-approved hardware may present opportunities to broaden competition. However, at present, no approved alternatives exist that meet the operational and cybersecurity standards required by the Department of Defense.

XII. Certification by the Contracting Officer.

As evidenced by my signature above, I have determined this document to be both accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

XIII. Certification by the technical/requirements personnel.

As evidenced by our signatures above, we certify that any supporting data contained herein, which is our responsibility, is both accurate and complete.

Remove the Guidance pages below.

Sole Source (Including Brand Name) Justification - Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items July 2025 Page of International Agreement Competitive Restrictions (IACR) March 2023 Page of NOTE: If a Justification was approved for the preceding acquisition, a copy of the approved Justification for the predecessor action must be included in the staff package for approval of the instant Justification. This applies to Justification staff packages that are submitted for review and approval at a level above the contracting officer. The predecessor Justification will be used as a reference document by the approving official.

Is this a new or amended J&A Document?

Is this a Bridge Action as defined in the AF Bridge Action Reduction Plan?

Funding level for this acquisition:

Authority:

Justification Type:

COORDINATION ( DAFFARS 5306.304(a) ) ** The text in the signature blocks below is editable, including the title.

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APPROVAL (DAFFARS 5306.304(a)) NOTE: A signature block will appear here based on the funding level selected above.

(See "Specific Guidance for Completing this Template" below.)

I. Contracting Activity.

II. Nature and/or description of the action being processed.

III. Description of supplies/services required to meet agency needs.

IV. Statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition.

V. Demonstration that the contractor's unique qualifications or nature of the acquisition requires the use of the authority cited above (applicability of authority).

VI. Description of efforts made to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable.

VII. Determination by the Contracting Officer that the anticipated cost to the Government will be fair and reasonable.

VIII. Description of the market research conducted and the results, or a statement of the reasons market research was not conducted.

IX. Any other facts supporting the use of Other Than Full and Open Competition.

X. List of any sources that expressed, in writing, an interest in the acquisition.

XI. A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition before making subsequent acquisitions for the supplies or services required.

XII. Certification by the Contracting Officer.

XIII. Certification by the technical/requirements personnel.

Specific Guidance for Completing this Template

I. Contracting Activity. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(1))

Fully identify the contracting agency and organizational activity responsible for the proposed contracting action.

II. Nature and/or description of the action being processed. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(2))

State whether the action will be awarded as a new contract or by modification to an existing contract (identify contract number) and identify the type contract planned (FAR 12.207 and DFARS 212.207).

An individual Justification cannot be used to support more than one contract irrespective of the quantities or the dollar value stated therein. If a proposed contract will contain unpriced options (including NTE prices), those options must be supported by a separate Justification prior to option exercise or the Justification supporting the basic contract must be a Class Justification. For Class Justification situations (covers more than one contract) where the number of contracts in the class can be identified: (1) Provide a brief general description of actions; (2) identify the supplies and services that are being acquired; and (3) for each contract in the class identify the contractor, estimated value, type of contract and rationale for contract length, and estimated award date. Where the same information applies to more than one contract within the class, it need only be stated one time.

III. Description of the supplies/services required to meet agency needs. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(3))

Specifically describe the supplies and/or services to be acquired, the total estimated value of the acquisition - including options (provide cost estimate by year and, for class Justifications, by contract action), and the estimated delivery dates/periods of performance If commodities are being procured, provide quantities. All contract line items (CLIN) -- e.g., technical data, support equipment, support services, etc. -- should be listed. If all of the ancillary requirements associated with a particular item are not specifically described in the Justifications, those ancillary requirements cannot be included in the resulting contract and would require a second Justification. Also, state the type of appropriation (e.g., 3010, 3400) that will be used to fund each requirement listed.

If approval for more than one fiscal year requirement is needed, give the rationale for this request. Generally, the scope of these actions is limited to current requirements only, so that actions may be taken to facilitate competition for out-year requirements.

In some cases, there are no feasible actions that could develop future competition, and it is reasonable to seek approval for more than one fiscal year's requirements.

For ID/IQ or requirements contracts, use the maximum dollar value of the total estimated orders as the estimated Justification dollar value.

IV. Statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(4)) V. Demonstration that the contractor's unique qualifications or nature of the acquisition requires the use of the authority cited above (applicability of authority). (FAR 6.303-2(b)(5)) Provide, in narrative form, a detailed explanation supporting and clearly relating to the conditions described by the FAR for using the particular authority cited. This section is normally the most detailed part of the justification as the essence of the justification is presented here. For acquisitions that include both supplies and services, separately justify the use of the authority for the services and supplies.

Contracting without providing for full and open competition shall not be justified on the basis of lack of advance planning by the requiring activity or concerns related to the amount of funds available (e.g., funds will expire) (10 U.S.C. 3204) VI. Description of efforts made to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable.

(FAR 6.303-2(b)(6))

Describe all efforts taken (or to be to be taken) to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as practicable under the circumstances. Although Market Research is covered in Section VIII, the information in Section VI should correlate with the Market Research described in Section VI. The following issues should be addressed in this paragraph:

Sources Sought Synopsis (used as part of market research). If a sources sought synopsis was issued, state the date the synopsis was issued and a brief description of its content. If any responses were received, describe in detail the results of the screening process and the rationale for determining the unacceptability of any synopsis respondents. Reference FAR 13.105, Synopsis and Posting Requirements.

Other Actions. In this paragraph, discuss any other actions taken or planned to facilitate competition for this acquisition. The discussion should include actions tried or considered even if the actions were unsuccessful. If the efforts were unsuccessful, so state and describe why.

Qualifying Country Sources. If qualifying country sources have expressed interest, but are to be excluded, provide supporting rationale.

VII. Determination by the Contracting Officer that the anticipated cost to the government will be fair and reasonable. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(7))

Include a statement by the contracting officer that the anticipated cost will be considered fair and reasonable and provide the basis for this determination. The steps that will be taken to ensure the final contract price will be fair and reasonable are also described here. Describe the extent of cost or price analysis anticipated including the requirements for certified cost or pricing data, technical evaluations, and audits.

VIII. Description of the market research conducted and the results, or explain why market research was not conducted. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(8))

Generally, some form of market research should be conducted. Discuss any market research conducted pursuant to FAR Part 10 and describe results of that research. Market research is any effort undertaken to determine if sources capable of satisfying the agency's requirements exist and to determine if commercial items or non-developmental items are either available or can be modified so that they will satisfy the agency's needs. Market research should be focused not only on identifying alternate sources, but also on alternate equipment or substitutes that might fulfill the Government needs with only minor modification. Regardless of the approach used, the results should provide a high level of confidence that no other qualified sources exist.

When other exceptions from the requirement to obtain full and open competition are relied upon, the market research might be limited to an examination of the acquisition history and experience with the marketplace under previous acquisitions for the same or similar items.

If no market research was conducted, so state and provide the rationale.

IX. Any other facts supporting the use of Other Than Full and Open Competition. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(9)(i))

Provide any other facts supporting the use of other than full and open competition, including an explanation of why technical data packages, specifications, engineering descriptions, statements of work, statements of objectives, or purchase descriptions suitable for full and open competition have not been developed, are not being developed, are not being used, or are not available.

X. List of sources, if any, that expressed interest in the acquisition. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(10))

If a sources sought synopsis was done and all interested sources are included in Section VI, it is acceptable to state, “See Section VI above.”

XI. A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition before making subsequent acquisitions for the supplies or services required. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(11))

Describe any actions taken or to be taken to foster competition for future acquisitions of the supplies or services being acquired. Describe potential actions that could be taken to remove the barriers to competition that have been identified in the justification and include a milestone schedule, where available, for accomplishing these actions. For example, if a follow-on competitive acquisition is planned, so state and provide the planned award date, or state that the Government will attempt to acquire rights in technical data and computer software sufficient to compete follow-on acquisitions as a priced option in the contract action that is the subject of this Justification, or (if applicable) state how the Government intends to challenge nonconforming markings on technical data and computer software delivered to it under previous contracts so those markings can be removed in order that the technical data and computer software may be used in support of a follow-on competitive acquisition, or describe plans to qualify additional sources.

Address efforts to ensure competition for future spare parts and maintenance in support of systems or equipment covered by the justification, even when these acquisitions will be accomplished by other organizations. Include a discussion on available breakout data.

If no actions are planned, so state and provide reasons. If approval is sought for more than one year, explain why a sole source effort is required for the planned time duration.

For a non-competitive follow-on acquisition to a previous award for the same supply or service supported by a Justification citing the same authority, include a discussion of the actions planned to overcome barriers to competition established in the previous justification, the status of those actions, and the results of those actions. The approval authority shall determine whether the planned actions were completed. If the planned actions were not completed, the justification for the follow-on acquisition shall be approved by the approval authority one-level above the approval authority for the previous justification (see FAR 13.501(a)(2)). If the previous justification was approved by the Senior Procurement Executive (SPE), the approval remains at the SPE level.

[DFARS 213.501(a) and DFARS PGI 206.304(a)(S-70)(ii)] XII. Certification by the Contracting Officer. (FAR 6.303-2(b)(12))

As evidenced by his/her signature, the contracting officer has determined this document to be both accurate and complete to the best of his/her knowledge and belief.

XIII. Certification by the technical/requirements personnel. (FAR 6.303-2(c))

As evidenced by their signatures, the technical and/or requirements personnel have certified that any supporting data contained herein, which is their responsibility, is both accurate and complete.

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Contracting-Activity: 87th Contracting Squadron/PKB, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ 08641
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Date: 05 Sep 2025
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