Summary

This is a Determination & Findings document for a single-source procurement justifying an award to Stratasys for an additive manufacturing 3D printer. The contracting activity is 20 CONS (U.S. Air Force), and the acquisition involves a UFR #17 Additive Mfg 450mc 3D Printer. The justification is based on RFO 11.204(a)(2)(ii) (Brand Name authority), which was selected as the applicable regulation.

The Findings section establishes that the Stratasys Fortus 450mc and F900 are the only additive manufacturing systems approved for producing polymer aircraft parts for U.S. Air Force weapons systems. This exclusivity is driven by the printers' unique compatibility with the mandatory Ultem™ 9085 high-performance polymer required for aerospace applications and compliance with Federal Aviation Administration requirements for toxicity, flammability, and smoke. The justification notes that only Stratasys and its approved vendors can supply the required equipment, materials, and support, with sourcing alternatives presenting substantial costs and delays of 5-10 years. As of June 4, 2026, the Air Force Rapid Sustainment Office confirmed that a 2019 memorandum from the Air Force Metals Technology Office remains the valid and current guidance supporting this sole-source determination. The Contracting Officer is designated as the approval authority for this determination.