Determination & Findings for Single Source Procurement

This document is a Determination & Findings (D&F) for a sole source procurement action issued by the Air Force Technical Applications Center (AFTC/PZZF) dated July 21, 2026.

The procurement is for twelve (12) unique Amphenol 187-pin connectors (10 each) totaling $84,840.50. These specialized aerospace connectors are required to replace non-serviceable units and maintain the functionality of flight instrumentation equipment installed on the 420th Combined Test Force (CTF) Stingray aircraft. The connectors are direct, form-fit-function replacements; alternative brands are incompatible with existing aircraft wiring and telemetry networks. Market research conducted via a GSA Request for Information (RFI 1807532) identified only open market sources, and NASA SEWP research confirmed these connectors are unavailable on established government schedule contracts. A Government Purchase Card is not a viable procurement method.

The contracting officer justified the sole source requirement under RFO 11.204(a)(2)(ii) (Brand Name), determining that the particular brand name is essential to the Government's requirements and that alternative products cannot meet the agency's minimum needs. The procurement will be conducted on the open market using an AF Form 9, targeting small business vendors capable of sourcing the items from the manufacturer. Signatory authority for this determination rests with the Contracting Officer in accordance with DAF Approval Authorities Matrix PM 26-C-11.