DF Redacted_Redacted.pdf

This is a Determination & Findings document justifying a single-source procurement for Amphenol circular connectors to support the 416th FLTS F-16 Fighter Instrumentation Network System (FINS).

The Air Force Technical Center (AFTC/PZZF) is procuring three specific Amphenol connector parts: 42ea Amphenol 88-569742-35S (10 shell, 22 awg, socket connector), 42ea Amphenol 88-569743-98P (12 shell, 20 awg, pin connector), and 42ea Amphenol 88-569745-35S (16 shell, 22 awg, socket connector). The acquisition will be conducted as a Competitive Small Business/HUBZone Set-Aside on SAM.gov. The justification for brand-name-only restriction cites RFO 11.204(a)(2)(ii), asserting that the particular Amphenol brand is essential because these connectors possess proprietary physical configurations with custom PCB tail lengths and standoffs that are flight-certified and non-substitutable. The Government's minimum requirements are strictly bound by the certified Technical Data Package (TDP) for the FINS system. The connectors have operated under a proven, flight-certified baseline for over 10 years, and introducing alternative form factors would constitute an unauthorized deviation from the certified baseline. The Contracting Officer's market research findings indicate a competitive environment exists for these brand-name items among authorized distributors, with historical precedent (FA930226Q0094) demonstrating over 20 competitive offers. The procurement strategy aims to maximize competition among authorized distributors while ensuring the critical mission schedule is met and avoiding schedule breach risk. The document was signed by Christina Day, Contracting Officer, on August 31, 2026.