BAA-09-01-PKS-Call49.doc

1-Step Broad Agency Announcement

Overview Information To access hyperlinks from this electronic solicitation – Hit CTRL and click on the link.

NAICS Code: 541712 Federal Agency Name: Air Force Research Laboratory, Layered Sensing Division, Phenomenology and Target Knowledge Branch, Sensors Directorate Broad Agency Announcement Title: Object Physics for Exploitation and Recognition Advancements (OPERA) Broad Agency Announcement Type: This is the Initial Announcement Broad Agency Announcement Number: BAA Call 09-01-PKS, Call 49 Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) Number(s): NA Proposal Due Date and Time: Jan 24, 2013, 2:00PM. NOTE: Proposal receipt after the due date and time shall be governed by the provisions of FAR 52.215-1(c)(3). It should be noted that this installation observes strict security procedures to enter the facility. These security procedures are NOT considered an interruption of normal Government processes, and proposals received after the above stated date and time as a result of security delays will be considered “late.” Furthermore, note that if offerors utilize commercial carriers in the delivery of proposals, they may not honor time-of-day delivery guarantees on military installations. Early proposal submission is encouraged.

Solicitation Request: Air Force Research Laboratory, Layered Sensing Division, Phenomenology and Target Knowledge Branch, Wright Research Site is soliciting technical and cost proposals on the research effort described below. Proposals should be addressed to the Contracting Point of Contact (POC) stated in Section VII of the Full Text Announcement. This is an unrestricted solicitation. Small businesses are encouraged to propose on all or any part of this solicitation. The NAICS Code for this acquisition is 541712, and the small business size standard is 500 employees. Proposals submitted shall be in accordance with this announcement. There will be no other solicitation issued in regard to this requirement. Offerors should be alert for any BAA amendments that may permit extensions to the proposal submission date.

System for Award Management (SAM) Registration (Deviation): FAR 52.204-99 is included by reference in lieu of FAR 52.204-7, Central Contractor Registration (CCR), and DFARS 252.204-7004, Alternate A, Central Contractor Registration. SAM is the primary Government repository for prospective federal awardee information and the centralized Government system for certain contracting, grants, and other assistance related processes. It replaces CCR/FedReg, On-line Representations and Certifications (ORCA) and the Excluded Parties Lists System (EPLS). Contractors shall be registered in the SAM database prior to submitting an invoice and through final payment of any contract, basic agreement, basic ordering agreement, or blanket purchasing agreement resulting from this solicitation. Contractors may obtain information on registration and annual confirmation requirements via the SAM accessed through https://www.acquisition.gov or by calling 866-606-8220.

Type of Contract/Instrument: The Air Force reserves the right to award the instrument best suited to the nature of research proposed. Accordingly, the Government may award any appropriate contract type under the FAR or Other Transaction (OT) for Prototype, grant, cooperative agreement, or OT for Research. The Air Force may also consider award of an appropriate technology transfer mechanism if applicable. It is anticipated that awards under this BAA will generally be Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) with Cost Plus Fixed Fee (completion) Task Orders. Cost reimbursement contracts require successful offerors to have an accounting system considered adequate for tracking costs applicable to the contract.)

Estimated Program Cost: $9.3M for Topic 1 and $5.9M for Topic 2 Anticipated Number of Awards: The Air Force anticipates awarding 2 awards for this announcement (1 for each topic).

Brief Program Summary:

The objectives are to develop a physics-based capability to support multi-modal sensing object recognition algorithms for development, and support of next generation multi-mode sensing concepts and systems.

More specifically, each Contract/Topic objective is as follows:

Contract/Topic 1: Extend Radar Based Saliency Methods and System Theory via emphasis on exploiting signature data in Bi-static and Distributed radar configurations for object classification and recognition. The approach should utilize previous literature and findings on physics based models with strong consideration for integration of uncertainty sources that propagate to the final determination. Understand gains in classification/recognition by fusion of LIDAR/RADAR data or features derived from physical phenomenology and characterizing the uncertainty in the system.

Contract/Topic 2: Multi-sensor Physics Based Saliency: The program will lead to and develop new technology designed to identify salient electromagnetic (EM) scattering signatures and physics-based feature attributes (i.e. such as velocity, material properties, volume, shape, etc.) that are essential for separating targets in the exploitation algorithm’s feature space. In addition, work under this program should develop companion technology that links these salient components in signature or feature space to physical attributes on the targets chosen by the offeror for ease of access and testing.

Address technical questions to: Ms. Patti Ryan, AFRL/RYAS, 2241 Avionics Circle, Bldg 620, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433, (937) 528-8225, Patricia.Ryan@wpafb.af.mil Address contracting questions to: Marcus Duff, Contract Negotiator, AFRL/RQKSR, Bldg 167, 2310 8th Street, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-7801, (937) 255-6351, Marcus.Duff@wpafb.af.mil, or David L. Shellabarger, Contracting Officer, AFRL/RQKSR,Bldg 167, 2310 8th Street, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-7801, (937) 255-4863, David.Shellabarger@wpafb.af.mil Full Text Announcement

I. Program Description: Air Force Research Laboratory, Sensors Directorate, AFRL/RY is soliciting technical and cost proposals on the following research effort:

1. Program Overview: The objective of OPERA is to develop a physics-based capability to support multi-modal sensing object recognition algorithms for development and support of next generation multi-mode sensing concepts and systems. OPERA is split into 2 topics.

Topic 1:

Extend Radar Based Saliency Methods and System Theory via emphasis on exploiting signature data in Bistatic and Distributed radar configurations for object classification and recognition. The approach should utilize previous literature and findings on physics based models with strong consideration for integration of uncertainty sources that propagate to the final determination.

Understand gains in classification/recognition by fusion of LIDAR/RADAR data or features derived from physical phenomenology and characterizing the uncertainty in the system. The aim of this effort is to develop a loosely coupled capability for multi-sensor measurement, processing, modeling and analysis methods to support present and near term recognition database development efforts of civilian vehicle ISR applications.

Potential to include additional sensors, such as hyperspectral, EO/IR and polarimetric sensors, which are of lower priority, depending on progress on task orders.

Civilian Vehicles: Depending on progress of research, the program could apply the technology developed towards more complex objects, specifically, toward civilian vehicle signature modeling, recognition and classification in future task orders.

Topic 2:

Multi-sensor Physics Based Saliency: The program will lead to and develop new technology designed to identify salient EM scattering signatures and physics-based feature attributes (i.e. such as velocity, material properties, volume, shape, etc.) that are essential for separating targets in the exploitation algorithm’s feature space. In addition, work under this program should develop companion technology that links these salient components in signature or feature space to physical attributes on the targets chosen by the bidder for ease of access and testing.

These technologies should also enable signature and feature extraction target model optimization for efficient signature prediction. It is expected that new signature database synthesis methodologies will be required to support physics based saliency cueing. In addition, the successful program will develop novel methods for identifying uncertainty components of the classification and recognition processes and for quantifying the uncertainty within an information theoretic framework. Such a framework should lead to better algorithm and system assessment methods and increased utility of information provided to the warfighter. The type of sensors used for the investigation will be up to the offeror but an approach that is general enough to be utilizable on a broader band of the EM spectrum is preferable. The contractor may request use of data from the Sensor Data Management System (SDMS), a 50+ terabyte archive of well-characterized sensor data from research and operational collections. The SDMS distributes holdings to programs and other users on both physical media and via internet. The link to its public web page is https://www.sdms.afrl.af.mil/main.php.

2. Basic Contract Statements of Objective/Task Order 1 Statements of Objective: The Statements of Objectives (SOO) for the Basic IDIQ contracts (Topics 1 and 2) are attached along with the SOOs for Task Order 1 (Topics 1 and 2). The offeror must propose a separate Statement of Work (SOW) for the basic contract and a SOW for the task order for the specific topic they are proposing on. If an offeror is proposing for both topics, they must submit a basic SOW for each topic and a task order SOW for each topic.

3. Deliverable Items:

a. Data Items: Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) items as found on DD Form 1423-1, attached to this call.

b. Software: Yes, TBD on individual Task Orders (TOs)

i. All computer software, license and documentation, purchased or developed under any contract resulting from this BAA Call, shall be delivered on CD-ROM at the end of the technical effort of a task order and uploaded to a repository. All source code for developed software shall be delivered along with appropriate user documentation. All commercial software licenses must first be reviewed by the Government prior to delivery.

c. Hardware: None

d. Other: None

4. Schedule:

a. Overall effort: The period of performance for the basic contract for each topic will be 84 months. Period of performance will be identified for each task order.

b. Ordering period: The ordering period for the overall program will be 60 months from the contract award of the basic IDIQ contract.

c. Period of performance for Task Order (TO) 0001 (for both topics): 15 months for the technical effort and 3 months for the final report for a total period of performance of 18 months.

d. Data Items: Specified on individual CDRL(s)

e. Software: Not specified for Basic IDIQ. TBD on individual TOs

f. Hardware: NA

5. Other Requirements:

a. Program security classification: It is anticipated that work performed under this effort will require access, generation, and facility capabilities of data and information that is classified up to and including SECRET. A DD 254, Contract Security Classification is included as an attachment to this Call; please reference the DD 254 for additional security requirement information. Offerors must verify that their Cognizant Security Office information is current with Defense Security Service (DSS) at www.dss.mil.

b. Operations Security (OPSEC): General OPSEC procedures, policies and awareness are required in an effort to reduce program vulnerability from successful adversary collection and exploitation of critical information. OPSEC will be applied throughout the lifecycle of the contract. The Critical Information List will be provided upon request by the RYY Security Office.

c. Export Control: Information involved in this research effort will be subject to Export Control (International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) 22 CFR 120-131, or Export Administration Regulations (EAR) 15 CFR 710-774). If effort is subject to export control then a Certified DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, will be required to be submitted with proposal.

e. Export-Controlled Items: As prescribed by DFARS 204.7303, DFARS 252.204-7008, “Export-Controlled Item (APR 2010)” is contained in this solicitation (as shown below). This clause shall be contained in ALL solicitations and resulting contracts.

EXPORT-CONTROLLED ITEMS (APR 2010)

(a) Definition. “Export-controlled items,” as used in this clause, means items subject to the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) (15 CFR Parts 730-774) or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (22 CFR Parts 120-130). The term includes:

(1) “Defense items,” defined in the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778(j)(4)(A), as defense articles, defense services, and related technical data, and further defined in the ITAR, 22 CFR Part 120.

(2) “Items,” defined in the EAR as “commodities”, “software”, and “technology,” terms that are also defined in the EAR, 15 CFR 772.1.

(b) The Contractor shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding export-controlled items, including, but not limited to, the requirement for contractors to register with the Department of State in accordance with the ITAR. The Contractor shall consult with the Department of State regarding any questions relating to compliance with the ITAR and shall consult with the Department of Commerce regarding any questions relating to compliance with the EAR.

(c) The Contractor's responsibility to comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding export-controlled items exists independent of, and is not established or limited by, the information provided by this clause.

(d) Nothing in the terms of this contract adds, changes, supersedes, or waives any of the requirements of applicable Federal laws, Executive orders, and regulations, including but not limited to—

(1) The Export Administration Act of 1979, as amended (50 U.S.C. App.2401, et seq.);

(2) The Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751, et seq.);

(3) The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701, et seq.);

(4) The Export Administration Regulations (15 CFR Parts 730-774);

(5) The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (22 CFR Parts 120-130); and

(6) Executive Order 13222, as extended;

(e) The Contractor shall include the substance of this clause, including this paragraph (e), in all subcontracts.

(End of clause)

6. Other Information:

a. Government Furnished Property (GFP) availability: GFP is not anticipated to be made available under any resulting task order.

b. Base Support/ Network Access: NA

c. Multiple awards subject to Fair Opportunity are not anticipated.

d. Data Rights Desired:

(1) Technical Data: Unlimited Rights

(2) Non-Commercial Software (NCS): Unlimited Rights

(3) NCS Documentation: Unlimited Rights

(4) Commercial Computer Software Rights: Customary License

The Air Force Research Laboratory is engaged in the discovery, development, and integration of warfighting technologies for our air, space, and cyberspace forces. As such, rights in technical data and NCS developed or delivered under this contract are of significant concern to the government. The Government will therefore carefully consider any restrictions on the use of technical data, NCS, and NCS documentation which could result in transition difficulty or less-than full and open competition for subsequent development of this technology.

In exchange for paying for development of the data, the Government expects technical data, NCS, and NCS documentation developed entirely at Government expense to be delivered with Unlimited Rights.

Technical data, NCS, and NCS documentation developed with mixed funding are expected to be delivered with at least Government Purpose Rights. Offers that propose delivery of technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation subject to Government Purpose Rights should fully explain what technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation developed with costs charged to indirect cost pools and/or costs not allocated to a Government contract will be incorporated, how the incorporation will benefit the program, and address whether those portions or processes are segregable. The Government expects that delivery of technical data, NCS, and NCS documentation subject to Government Purpose Rights will fully meet program needs.

Offers that propose delivery of technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation subject to Limited Rights, Restricted Rights, or Specifically Negotiated License Rights will be considered. Proposals should fully explain what technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation developed with costs charged to indirect cost pools and/or costs not allocated to a government contract will be incorporated and how the incorporation will benefit the program.

Offerors are reminded that the Identification and Assertion of Restrictions on the Government’s Use, Release, or Disclosure of Technical Data or Computer Software (the assertions list), required under DFARS 252.227-7013 and DFARS 252.227-7014, is included in Section K and due at time of proposals. Assertions must be completed with specificity with regard to each item, component, or process listed. Nonconforming assertions lists will be rejected.

Note that DFARS 252.227-7014(d) describes requirements for incorporation of third party computer software (commercial and nonconmmercial). Any commercial software to be incorporated into a deliverable must be clearly identified in the proposal. Because many commercial software licenses are not transferrable or may not be acceptable to the Government, commercial software licenses proposed for delivery to the Government must be approved by the contracting officer prior to award.

As used in this subparagraph, the terms Unlimited Rights, Government Purpose Rights, Specifically Negotiated License Rights, and Limited Rights in technical data are as defined in DFARS 252.227-7013. The terms Unlimited Rights, Government Purpose Rights, Specifically Negotiated License Rights, and Restricted Rights in noncommercial computer software and noncommercial software documentation are as defined in DFARS 252.227-7014. The term Commercial Computer Software is as defined in DFARS 252.227-7014.

II. Award Information

1. Anticipated Award Date: 27 Mar 2013

2. Anticipated funding by Topic Area

FY

TOPIC 1

FY13

$1450

FY14

$1572

FY15

$2527

FY16

$1775

FY17

$1950 Total $9274

This funding profile is an estimate only and not a contractual obligation for funding. All funding is subject to change due to Government discretion and availability. Potential offerors should be aware that due to unanticipated budget fluctuations funding in any or all areas may change with little or no notice.

3. Anticipated funding for Task Order 0001 (Topic 1): FY13/$800,000.

4. Anticipated funding for Task Order 0001 (Topic 2): FY13/$900,000.

5. Number of awards anticipated: 2 (1 for each topic area) III. Eligibility Information

1. Eligible Offeror: This is an unrestricted solicitation. Small businesses are encouraged to propose on all or any part of this solicitation.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Cost Sharing is not required. Ratio: 0 / 0

3. Federally Funded Research and Development Centers: The following guidance is provided for Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs) contemplating submitting a proposal, as either a prime or subcontractor, against this BAA. FAR 35.017-1(c)(4) prohibits an FFRDC from competing with any non-FFRDC concern in response to a Federal agency request for proposal for other than the operation of an FFRDC (with exceptions stated in DFARS 235.017-1(c)(4)). There is no regulation prohibiting an FFRDC from responding to a solicitation. However, the FFRDC’s sponsoring agency must first make a determination that the effort being proposed falls within the purpose, mission, general scope of effort, or special competency of the FFRDC, and that determination must be included in the FFRDC’s proposal. In addition, the non-sponsoring agency (in this case AFRL) must make a determination that the work proposed would not place the FFRDC in direct competition with domestic private industry. Only after these determinations are made would a determination be made concerning the FFRDC’s eligibility to receive an award.

4. Government Agencies: If a Government agency is interested in performing work, contact the Program Office identified in the BAA. If those discussions result in a mutual interest to pursue your agency's participation, the effort will be pursued independent of this announcement.

5. Other

a. Foreign participation: No

b. This acquisition involves data that are subject to export control laws and regulations. Only contractors who are registered and certified with the Defense Logistics Services Center (DLSC) and have a legitimate business purpose may participate in this solicitation. Contact the Defense Logistics Services Center, 74 Washington Avenue N., Battle Creek, Michigan 40917-3084 (1-800-352-3572) for further information on the certification process. You must submit a copy of your approved DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, with your proposal.

c. There are no limits to the number of proposals an offeror may submit. If an offeror is interested in proposing to both topics, they must submit proposals for each topic.

d. You may be ineligible for award if all requirements of this solicitation are not met on the proposal due date as identified above.

IV. Proposal and Submission Information

1. Overview: Proposals submitted shall be in accordance with this announcement. There will be no other solicitation issued in regard to this requirement. The Government intends to evaluate proposals and award some, all, or none of the proposals received without negotiation/discussion; however, the Government reserves to right to negotiate with those offeror(s) whose proposal is selected for funding.

Offerors should be alert for any BAA amendments that may permit extensions to the proposal submission date.

For additional information, a copy of the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Guide for Industry is available at http://www.wpafb.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-120614-075.pdf.

2. Content and Form of Proposal Submission: The paragraphs below identify proposal format and content. Proposals should be addressed via mail to the Contracting Point of Contact (POC) identified in Section VII.

a. General Instructions: Offerors should apply the restrictive notice prescribed in the provision of FAR 52.215-1(e) Instructions to Offerors—Competitive Acquisition. Offerors should consider proposal instructions contained in the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Guide for Industry, which can be accessed on line at http://www.wpafb.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-120614-075.pdf. This guide is specifically designed to assist the offeror in understanding the BAA proposal process. Technical/management and cost volumes should be submitted in separate volumes, and must be valid for 180 days. Proposals must reference the announcement number BAA Call 09-01-PKS, Call 49. Offerors must submit one-original and 5 hard copies of their proposals via mail to the Contracting POC, identified in Section VII. Offerors are advised that only contracting officers are legally authorized to contractually bind or otherwise commit the government. The cost of preparing proposals in response to this BAA is not considered an allowable direct charge to any resulting or any other contract; however, it may be an allowable expense to the normal bid and proposal indirect cost as specified in FAR 31.205-18.

a. Technical/Management Proposal:

i. Page Limitations: The following describes the page limitations on the proposal submittal:

(a) Proposal shall be limited to 20 pages for the Basic IDIQ proposal (for each topic) and 25 pages for the Task Order 0001 (for each topic), prepared and submitted in Microsoft Word format.

(b) Font shall be standard 10-point business font Arial.

(c) Character spacing must be “normal,” not condensed in any manner.

(d) Pages shall be double-spaced (must use standard double-space function in Microsoft Word), single sided, 8.5 by 11 inches, with at least one-inch margins on both sides, top and bottom. Lines between text lines must also be 10-point.

(e) All text, including text in tables and charts, must adhere to all font size and line spacing requirements listed herein. Font and line spacing requirements do not have to be followed for illustrations, flowcharts, drawings, and diagrams. These exceptions shall not be used to circumvent formatting requirements and page count limitations by including lengthy narratives in such items.

(f) Pages shall be numbered starting with the cover page being Page 1, and the last page being no greater than Page 20 for the Basic proposal and Page 25 for the Task Order 0001 proposal. The page limitation covers all information including indices, photographs, foldouts (counted as 1 page for each 8.5 by 11 portion) tables, charts, appendices, attachments, resumes, etc.

(g) The proposal page limit does not include the offeror’s proposed Statement of Work (SOW) for the Basic proposal and Task Order 0001; however, the same formatting rules apply to the SOW, which is limited to 5 pages for both the Basic and Task Order 0001 (for each topic).

(h) A CD with the Microsoft WORD version of your Technical/Management Proposals and the SOWs must be submitted with the hard copies of the proposal, and must match the hard copy.

(i) Please note: the Government will check the proposal and SOW for conformance to the stated requirements. Any pages in excess of the stated page limitation after the format check will not be considered.

ii. The proposal shall include a discussion of the nature and scope of the research and the technical approach. Additional information on prior work in this area, descriptions of available equipment, data and facilities and resumes of personnel who will be participating in this effort should also be included as attachments to the technical proposals (basic and Task Order 0001). These volumes shall include SOWs detailing the technical tasks proposed to be accomplished under the proposed effort and suitable for contract incorporation. Do not include any proprietary information in the SOWs. Refer to the BAA Guide for Industry referenced above to assist in SOW preparation. If Government Furnished Property is requested you are required to submit the following information with your offer—

(a) A list or description of all Government property that the offeror or its subcontractors propose to use on a rent-free basis. The list shall identify the accountable contract under which the property is held and the authorization for its use (from the contracting officer having cognizance of the property);

(b) The dates during which the property will be available for use (including the first, last, and all intervening months) and, for any property that will be used concurrently in performing two or more contracts, the amounts of the respective uses in sufficient detail to support prorating the rent;

(c) The amount of rent that would otherwise be charged in accordance with FAR 52.245-9, Use and Charges; and

(d) The voluntary consensus standard or industry leading practices and standards to be used in the management of Government property, or existing property management plans, methods, practices, or procedures for accounting for property.

iii. Any questions concerning the technical proposal or SOW preparation shall be referred to the Technical POC cited in the Overview Information.

b. Cost/Business Proposal:

i. Separate the proposal into a business section and cost section. Adequate price competition is anticipated. The business section should contain all business aspects to the proposed contract, such as type of contractual instrument, any exceptions to terms and conditions of the announcement model contract, any information not technically related, etc. Provide rationale for exceptions. Identify any technical data that will be delivered with less than unlimited rights. Cost proposals have no page limitations; however, offerors are requested to keep cost proposals to 100 pages as a goal. The proposal shall be furnished with supporting schedules and shall contain a person hour breakdown per task. Refer to the BAA Guide for Industry for detailed proposal instructions.

ii. Subcontracting plans, for efforts anticipated to exceed $650,000, shall be submitted along with the technical and cost proposals. Reference FAR 19.704, DFARS 219.704, and AFFARS 5319.704(a)(1) for subcontracting plan requirements. Small business concerns are exempt from this requirement. If an ID/IQ contract arrangement is anticipated, the basis for the subcontracting plan should reflect the entire ceiling amount.

d. Proposal Content Summary: You may be ineligible for award if all requirements of this solicitation are not met on the proposal due date. Reference Section VIII for a Checklist of the requirements.

4. Proposal Due Date and Time: 24 Jan 2013, 2:00 P.M. local time. NOTE: Proposal receipt after the due date and time shall be governed by the provisions of FAR 52.215-1(c)(3).

NOTE: Intent to Propose: Offerors that anticipate submitting a proposal are requested to submit an e-mail to Marcus Duff, at Marcus.Duff @wpafb.af.mil containing the name of the contractor, the POC, and the contractor’s intent to submit a proposal. This “Intent to Propose” is requested by 9 Jan 2013, 3:00 p.m. local time.

5. Intergovernmental Review: None

6. Funding Restrictions: None

7. Other Submission Requirements: Proposals must be submitted to: David L. Shellabarger, AFRL/RQKSR, Bldg 167, 2310 8th St., Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-7801.

V. Proposal Review Information

1. Evaluation Criteria: The selection of one or more sources for award will be based on an evaluation of each offeror’s proposal (both technical and cost/price aspects) to determine the overall merit of the proposal in response to the announcement, as well as on Agency need and funding availability. Evaluation of the Technical (Basic IDIQ Contract) proposal will have greater weight than the evaluation of the Technical (Task Order 0001) proposal. The technical aspect, which is ranked as the first order of priority, shall be evaluated based on the following criteria that are of descending order of importance:

a. Technical (Basic IDIQ Contract):

i. Unique and innovative approach proposed to accomplish the technical objectives. New and creative solutions and/or advances in knowledge, understanding, technology, and the state of the art.

ii. The offeror’s understanding of the scope of the technical effort.

iii. Soundness of the offeror’s technical approach.

iv. Availability of qualified technical personnel and their experience with the applicable technologies.

v. Availability, from any source, of necessary research, test, laboratory, or shop facilities.

b. Technical (Task Order 0001):

i. Unique and innovative approach proposed to accomplish the technical objectives. New and creative solutions and/or advances in knowledge, understanding, technology, and the state of the art.

ii. The offeror’s understanding of the scope of the technical effort.

iii. Soundness of the offeror’s technical approach.

iv. The potential for AFRL to transition the research and development deliverables to future Government needs. Any proposed restrictions on technical data or computer software will be considered.

v. Availability of qualified technical personnel and their experience with the applicable technologies.

vi. Availability, from any source, of necessary research, test, laboratory, or shop facilities.

c. Cost/Price: Cost/Price includes the reasonableness and realism of the proposed cost and fee and consideration of proposed budgets and funding profiles. Cost/Price is a substantial factor, but ranked as the second order of priority. (If an offeror proposes the use of GFP other than any GFP identified in this BAA, and that proposed GFP provides the offeror an unfair competitive advantage, then FAR 45.202 requires rental equivalent be applied to the Cost Factor for evaluation purposes only).

d. Proposal Risk Assessment: Proposal risk for technical, cost, and schedule will be assessed as part of the evaluation of the above evaluation criteria. Proposal risk relates to the identification and assessment of the risks associated with an offeror's proposed approach as it relates to accomplishing the proposed effort. Tradeoffs of the assessed risk will be weighed against the potential payoff.

2. Review and Selection Process

a. Categories: The technical and cost proposals will be evaluated at the same time and categorized as follows:

i. Category I: Demonstrates technical merit. Is important to agency programs. The offeror presents relevant experience and access to adequate resources. Risk is acceptable. The cost/price is reasonable and realistic. Proposals in Category I are recommended for acceptance (subject to availability of funds) and normally are displaced only by other Category I proposals.

ii. Category II: Demonstrates technical merit; is important to agency programs; and presents relevant experience and access to adequate resources; but requires further development. Risk is acceptable. The cost/price is reasonable and realistic. Category II proposals are recommended for acceptance, but at a lower priority than Category I.

iii. Category III: Does not demonstrate technical merit; does not meet agency needs; does not present adequate experience or resources; the risk level is unacceptable; or the cost/price is not reasonable or realistic .

b. No other evaluation criteria will be used. The Air Force reserves the right to select for award any, all, part or none of each proposal received.

VI. Award Administration Information

1. Award Notices: Offerors will be notified whether their proposal is recommended for award, by letter or e-mail, on or about 20 Feb 2013. The notification is not to be construed to mean the award of a contract is assured, as availability of funds and successful negotiations are prerequisites to any award.

2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: See Section I.

3. Reporting: See paragraph I.2.a., CDRLs.

VII. Agency Contacts

1. Address technical questions to: Ms. Patti Ryan, AFRL/RYAS, 2241 Avionics Circle, Bldg 620, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433, (937) 528-8225, Patricia.ryan@wpafb.af.mil

2. Address contracting questions to: Mr. Marcus Duff, AFRL/RQKSR, 2310 8th Street, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-7801, (937) 255-6351, Marcus.Duff@wpafb.af.mil, or Mr. David L. Shellabarger, AFRL/RQKSR, 2310 8th Street, Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433-7801, (937) 255-4863, David.Shellabarger@wpafb.af.mil.

VI. Other Information

1. Acquisition of Commercial Items: Based upon market research, the Government is not using the policies contained in Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Items, in its solicitation for the described supplies or services. However, interested persons may identify to the contracting officer their interest and capability to satisfy the Government’s requirement with a commercial item within 15 days of this notice.

2. Support contractors: Only Government employees will evaluate proposals for selection. Offerors are advised that employees of commercial firms under contract to the Government may be used to administratively process proposals, monitor contract performance, or perform other administrative duties requiring access to other contractors' proprietary information. These support contracts include nondisclosure agreements prohibiting their contractor employees from disclosing any information submitted by other contractors or using such information for any purpose other than that for which it was furnished.

3. Communications: Dialogue between prospective offerors and Government representatives is encouraged until submission of proposals. Discussions with any of the points of contact shall not constitute a commitment by the Government to subsequently fund or award any proposed effort. Only Contracting Officers are legally authorized to commit the Government.

4. Debriefings: When requested, a debriefing will be provided. The debriefing process will follow the time guidelines set out in FAR 15.505 and 15.506, but the debriefing content may vary to be consistent with the procedures that govern BAAs (FAR 35.016).

5. Wide Area Work Flow: NOTICE: Any contract award resulting from this solicitation will contain the clause at DFARS 252.232-7003, Electronic Submission of Payment Requests and Receiving Reports (Jun 2012) which requires electronic submission of all payment requests. Any contract resulting from this solicitation will establish a requirement to use WAWF-RA for invoicing and receipt/acceptance, and provide coding instructions applicable to this contract via the clause at DFARS 252.232-7006, Wide Area Workflow Payment Instructions (Jun 2012). Contractors are encouraged to take advantage of available training (both web-based and through your local DCMA office), and to register in the WAWF-RA system. Information regarding WAWF-RA, including the web-based training and registration, can be found at https://wawf.eb.mil. Note: This WAWF-RA requirement does not apply to Universities that are audited by an agency other than DCAA.

6. Item Identification and Valuation. Any contract award resulting from this solicitation may contain the clause at DFARS 252.211-7003, Item Identification and Valuation, (Jun 2011) which requires unique item identification and valuation of any deliverable item for which the Government’s unit acquisition cost is $5,000 or more; subassemblies, components, and parts embedded within an item valued at $5,000 or more; or items for which the Government’s unit acquisition cost is less than $5,000 when determined necessary by the requiring activity for serially managed, mission essential, or controlled inventory. Also included are any DoD serially managed subassembly, component, or part embedded within a delivered item and the parent item that contains the embedded subassembly, component, or part. Per DFARS 211.274-3 Policy for Valuation, it is DoD policy that contractors shall be required to identify the Government’s unit acquisition cost for all items delivered, even if none of the criteria for placing a unique item identification mark applies. Therefore, your proposal must clearly break out the unit acquisition cost for any deliverable items. Per DFARS 211.274-3 Policy for Valuation, “The Government’s unit acquisition cost is the Contractor’s estimated fully burdened unit cost at time of delivery to the Government for cost type or undefinitized line, subline, or exhibit line items” (Per DoD, “fully burdened unit costs” to the Government would include all direct, indirect, G&A costs, and an appropriate portion of fee). If you have questions regarding the Unique Item Identification requirements, please contact the Contracting Point of Contact listed above. For more information, see the following website: http://www.acq.osd.mil/dpap/pdi/uid/index.html. The contract will also include DFARS 252.211-7007, Reporting of Government-Furnished Equipment in the DoD Item Unique Identification (IUID) Registry (Nov 2008).

7. Forward Pricing Rate Agreements: Offerors who have forward pricing rate agreements (FPRA’s) and forward pricing rate recommendations (FPRR’s) should submit them with their proposal.

8. Pre-Award Clearance: Pursuant to Far 22.805, a preaward clearance must be obtained from the U.S. Department Of Labor, Employment Standards Administration, Office Of Federal Contract Compliance Program’s (OFCCP) prior to award of a contract (or subcontract) of $10,000,000 or more unless the contractor is listed in OFCCP’s National Preaward Registry http://www.dol-esa.gov/preaward. This registry indicates that the contractor has been found to be “in compliance” within the past two years with The Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) regulations that the OFCCP is mandated to enforce. The registry is updated nightly and facilities reviewed more than 2 years ago are removed and new ones are added. Award may be delayed if you are not currently listed in the registry and the contracting officer must request a preaward clearance from the OFCCP.

9. Limitations on Pass-Through Charges. As prescribed in FAR 52.408(n)(1) & 52.408(n)(2), provisions 52.215-22, “Limitations on Pass Through Charges – Identification of Subcontract Effort (Oct 2009),” and 52.215-23, “Limitations on Pass-Through Charges (Oct 2009),” are contained in this solicitation by reference. Any contract valued greater than the threshold for cost or pricing data threshold, except fixed price contracts awarded on the basis of adequate price competition, resulting from this solicitation, shall contain the Clause at FAR 52.215-23 (or Alt I).

10. Associate Contractor Agreements: NA

11. Post-Award Small Business Program Rerepresentation: As prescribed in FAR 19.308, FAR Clause 52.219-28, “Post-Award Small Business Program Rerepresentation (Apr 2009),” is incorporated by reference in this solicitation. This clause will be contained in any contracts resulting from this solicitation. This clause requires a contractor to rerepresent its size status when certain conditions apply. The clause provides detail on when the rerepresentation must be complete and what the contractor must do when a rerepresentation is required.

12. Employment Eligibility Verification: As prescribed by FAR 22.1803, FAR Clause 52.222-54, “Employment Eligibility Verification (Jan 2009),” is hereby incorporated by reference in this solicitation. Any contract awarded as a result of this BAA that is above the Simplified Acquisition Threshold, and contains a period of performance greater than 120 days, shall include this clause in its contract. This clause provides the requirement of contractors to enroll as a Federal Contractor in the E-Verify program within 30 days after contract award.

13. Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Sub-contract/Sub-recipient Awards: As prescribed by FAR 4.1403(a), FAR 52.204-10, “Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards,” is hereby incorporated by reference in this solicitation. Any contract valued at $25,000 or more, excluding classified contracts or contractors with individuals, must contain this clause. Any grant or agreement award resulting from this announcement may contain the award term set forth in 2 CFR, Appendix A to Part 25 http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=c55a4687d6faa13b137a26d0eb436edb&rgn=div5&view=text&node=2:1.1.1.4.1&idno=2#2:1.1.1.4.1.2.1.1.

14. Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters: Any contract or assistance award that exceeds $500,000.00; and when an offeror checked “has” in paragraph (b) of the provision 52.209-7, shall contain the clause/article, 52.209-9, “Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Jan 2011).”

15. Contractor Business Systems: DFARS 252.242-7005, Contractor Business Systems, is hereby incorporated by reference.

16. Ombudsman: The Ombudsman clause, AFFARS 5352.201-9101 Ombudsman (May 2011) will be contained in any contracts or agreements resulting from this Solicitation. The AFRL Ombudsman is Barbara G. Gehrs, Director of Contracting, AFRL/PK, (937) 904-4407, email: Barbara.Gehrs@wpafb.af.mil.

17. Proposal Content Checklist: You may be ineligible for award if all requirements of this solicitation are not met on the proposal due date.

a. Proposals are due to the Contracting POC.

b. Proposals are due no later than the due date and time specified in this announcement.

c. Proposal page limits are strictly enforced. See Section IV.3.b.of the solicitation for page limits.

d. Completed Certifications and Representations (Section K) are due with the proposal. Certifications and Representations (Section K) can be found at http://www.wpafb.af.mil/library/factsheets/factsheet.asp?id=6790 under Sample Contract Documents title of the Business Resources Header. In the interests of transformation and streamlining and in order to be in position to award within days of completion of the technical evaluation, it is imperative that you review the model contract appropriate for your business type and provide with your proposal any exception to terms and conditions.

e. The Cost/Business Proposal must contain all information described in the Content and Form of Proposal Section.

f. For any subcontracts proposed, the Cost/Business Proposal must contain a subcontractor analysis IAW FAR 15.404-3(b).

g. Offerors other than small businesses are to include a subcontracting plan in Microsoft Word Readable Format on a CD ROM as well as a hard copy.

h. Proposals must be submitted in the format specified in Section IV.

i. Offerors who have Forward Pricing Rate Agreements (FPRA’s) and Forward Pricing Rate Recommendations (FPRR’s) should submit them with their proposal.

j. If a DD254 is applicable, offerors must verify their Cognizant Security Office information is current with Defense Security Service (DSS) at www.dss.mil.

k. If effort is subject to export control, offerors must submit a Certified DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, with proposal.

As of Sep 2012