F1S0AZ6209A001 Radios DF._Redacted.pdf

This is a Determination & Findings (D&F) document justifying a sole source procurement action for UHF/VHF radio systems from Collins Aerospace.

Procurement Overview and Justification

The Air Force Test Center (AFTC) at Edwards AFB is procuring Collins Aerospace 721S UHF/VHF radio systems and associated mounting components to support the 412 RANS test environment. The specific items include five RT-4150 (50W) VHF/UHF radios, four RCU-72 units, four RCU mount units, and three MMT-1000 radio trays. The procurement is justified under RFO 11.204(a)(2)(ii) (Brand Name authority), citing that the particular brand is essential to Government requirements and market research indicates other companies' similar products do not meet the agency's needs or cannot be modified to meet minimum requirements. The action is dated August 11, 2026, and signed by Contracting Officer Susanna Dryer, NH-III.

Technical Requirements and Justification Rationale

The Collins 721S radio is the only system capable of meeting strict operational and compatibility requirements for the 412 RANS test environment without requiring extensive software updates or system patches. Critical minimum requirements include full integration with current range communication networks as the primary protocol, native execution and integration with HAVE QUICK I/II and SATURN anti-jam frequency-hopping waveforms, cipher text mode capabilities supporting KY58/KY100 encryption devices, turnkey integration with legacy Range infrastructure including the Compunetix KY system, and a minimal footprint accommodating three to five transceivers in standard four to six Rack Unit space. As the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of the 721S systems and only manufacturer meeting this specific hardware configuration, Collins Aerospace possesses the exact native integration capabilities required. The document notes that introducing alternative vendor equipment would break interoperability and standardization, necessitating costly system redesigns, re-testing, security re-accreditations, and retraining of personnel. The established precedent of successful integration and procurement of these systems demonstrates ongoing requirement for standardized, reliable, and anti-jam communication capabilities at Edwards AFB.