BAA MaRSS II - Amd 01 12.20.21.pdf

FA8650-22-S-5007

As of 24 May 2021

2-Step Broad Agency Announcement

Overview Information

NAICS Code: The NAICS Code for this acquisition is 541715 (Research and Technology in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology), and the small business size standard is 1,000 employees.

Federal Agency Name: Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RX Materials and Manufacturing Directorate

Broad Agency Announcement Title: Materials Research and Survivability Studies II (MaRSS II)

Broad Agency Announcement Type: Initial Announcement

Broad Agency Announcement Number: FA8650-22-S-5007

THIS WILL BE A TWO-STEP SOLICITATION:

First Step: WHITE PAPER DUE DATE AND TIME: 18 January 2022, 5:00PM Eastern Time (ET). Only White Papers are due at this time.

Second Step: PROPOSAL DUE DATE AND TIME: To be provided in the Requests for Proposals sent only those offerors that submit White Papers that are considered to meet the needs of the Air Force.

NOTE: White Paper/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. Be advised, if the U.S. Postal Service is used, this building only receives U.S. Postal Mail twice a week and delivery by that means may not meet the proposal due date and time established herein. Early White Paper/proposal submission is encouraged.

Submission: Due to COVID-19 health measures, White Papers must be submitted via electronic White Paper submission to the following Contracting Point of Contact (POC): Gary Victor, AFRL/RXKMA, E-mail: Gary.Victor@us.af.mil Solicitation Request: Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RX, Materials and

The 2-Step Process reduces acquisition resources for both the Government and Industry. It may be considered when a large number of proposals are anticipated or to determine if further Government interest is warranted. If further interest is not warranted, Industry saves unnecessary bid and proposal costs and the Government saves review time.

mailto:Gary.Victor@us.af.mil

As of 24 May 2021

Manufacturing Directorate, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is soliciting White Papers on the research effort described below.

Type of Contract/Instrument: It is anticipated that awards under this BAA will be Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ), Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) Completion Type or Cost Reimbursable (w/o fee) task orders if awarding to non-profit institutions or universities. Cost reimbursement contract types shall require successful offerors to have an accounting system considered adequate for tracking costs applicable to the contract.

In addition, other contract types being considered include Time-and-Materials and Firm-Fixed-Price contracts in order to deliver needed flexibility and value to the Agency, and shall be based on the unique circumstances and requirements of each individual task order.

Estimated Program Cost: $98,716,370

Anticipated Number of Awards: The Air Force anticipates awarding 2 or more awards for this Announcement.

Supplemental Information: Due to Export Control/ITAR restrictions, a supplemental data package has been established, and includes the following data that will be required by potential offerors during Step One to the Announcement:

• DD Form 254

• SOO requirements for the Basic ID/IQ Contract

• SOO requirements for TO 0001

• SOO requirements for TO 0002

This data will be provided via e-mail request only. Interested offerors must request this information from the following technical POC’s in order to request this data:

• John Eric, AFRL/RXAP, e-mail: john.eric@us.af.mil,

• Michael Anderson, AFRL/RXAP, e-mail: michael.anderson.100@us.af.mil

These individuals shall serve as the primary AFRL POC’s to adjudicate the request and ensure this information is vetted and qualified in order to furnish this information. Offerors requesting the supplemental data package must provide the following information:

• Current DD Form 2345 (Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement)

• Proof of facility clearance

• Ensure Cognizant security office information is current with Defense

Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) at www.dcsa.mil.

mailto:john.eric@us.af.mil http://www.dcsa.mil/

The supplemental data package shall be transmitted to requesting offerors via e-mail only.

Note: Only U.S. citizens and permanent legal residents - e.g. green card holders can request this supplemental information. In addition, requests for the supplemental data package will only be provided during the submission period associated with Step One of this Announcement (White Papers). Requests for the supplemental information occurring after the due date for White Papers in (Step One) for this Announcement will not be considered.

Brief Program Summary: The objective of this program is to conduct research and advance the current state-of-the-art in the area of photonic materials using unique and innovative techniques to identify, characterize, simulate structure and properties, tailor formulations and performance, and test resultant materials for improved hardness and increased survivability for aircrew members, components, sensors, structures, and systems. Separate Task Orders will contain specific requirements relative to a particular program’s technical objectives. Some of the key technical areas of interest include optical technology and materials, structured optical materials and processing, non-linear electromagnetic materials and processing, photonic materials advanced development, laser component technology such as crystalline fibers and advanced laser source materials, and effects mitigation from sources such as lasers or nuclear flash effects.

Communication Between Prospective Offerors and Government Representatives: 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. All questions shall be addressed in writing to the primary POCs until 10 days before the BAA proposal due date.

Address technical questions to the Technical POC’s:

• John Eric, Program Manager, e-mail: John.Eric@us.af.mil or

• Michael Anderson, AFRL/RXAP, e-mail: michael.anderson.100@us.af.mil

Address contracting questions to the Contracting POC’s:

• Gary Victor, Contract Negotiator, e-mail: Gary.Victor@us.af.mil (phone: 937-

602-7480) or

• Mark Merrifield, Contracting Officer, e-mail: Mark.Merrifield@us.af.mil (phone:

937-214-3773) mailto:John.Eric@us.af.mil mailto:Mark.Merrifield@us.af.mil

Full Text Announcement

I. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, AFRL/RXAP, is soliciting White Papers (and later technical and cost proposals) on the following research effort:

1. Statement of Objectives/Description of Technical Area(s): Refer to

Supplemental Information referenced on page 2 of this Announcement.

2. Within Scope Modifications: Potential offerors are advised that due to the inherent uncertainty of research and development efforts, awards resulting from this announcement may be modified during performance to make within scope changes, to include but not limited to, modifications which increase overall contract ceiling amount.

3. Deliverable Items:

a. Data Items:

• Final Technical Report (Data Item A001) – Deliver 90 days after completion of the technical effort (DI-MISC-80711A/T)

• Funds and Man-Hour Expenditure Reports (Data Item A002) – Deliver on a monthly basis (DI-FNCL-80331A/T)

• Contract Funds Status Report (Data Item A003) - Deliver on a quarterly basis (DI-MGMT-81468/T)

• Status Report (Data Item A004) - Deliver on a quarterly basis

(DI-MGMT-80368A/T)

• Presentation Material (Data Item A005) – Deliver on an as-needed basis

(DI-ADMN-81373/T)

• Test Plan (Data Item A006) - Deliver on an as-needed basis throughout the duration of the technical effort (DI-NDTI-80566A/T)

• Test/Inspection Reports (Data Item A007) - Deliver on an as-needed basis following testing throughout the duration of the technical effort (DI-

NDTI-80809B/T)

• Digital Imaging (Data Item A008) – Deliver as generated throughout the duration of the technical effort (DI-MISC-81579/T)

• Technical Videotape Presentation (Data Item A009) - Deliver as generated throughout the duration of the technical effort (DI-MISC-81275/T)

• Computer Software Product (Data Item A010) - Deliver as generated throughout the duration of the technical effort (DI-IPSC-81488/T)

• Physical Inventories Report (Data Item A011) - Deliver annually throughout the duration of the technical effort (DI-MGMT-80259/T)

• Data Management Plan (Data Item A012) – Deliver as generated throughout the duration of the period of performance (DI-MISC- 80711A/T)

b. Software: As required, or as available, depending on the nature and requirements of the Task Order (anticipated for any modeling or computational efforts) (Refer to Data Item A010)

c. Hardware: Not applicable

d. Other: Test or Research Samples (as required or as available), depending on the nature or requirements of the Task Order; Residual Materials;

Special Test Equipment (STE); Drawings, as applicable in the reporting

4. Schedule:

a. Overall effort: 87 months for the total Period of Performance (PoP).

b. Ordering Period: 60 months.

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

d. Software: Deliver as generated throughout the duration of the technical effort, and shall be inclusive of software source code and shall be executable.

5. Other Requirements:

a. This announcement incorporates FAR and supplement provisions and clauses by reference. The full text of provisions and clauses can be found at Acquisition.gov.

b. Program Security Classification: Top Secret/SCI level. The DD Form

254 associated with the classification level will not be furnished as an attachment to the BAA. Interested offerors must request the DD

As of 24 May 2021

Form 254 separately as part of a supplemental data package, which is described herein in “Supplemental Information” (page 2 of this Announcement).

c. TEMPEST Requirements: Applicable. Emanations/emissions security

(TEMPEST) requirements apply to the SAPF execution location; see Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) Clause 252.239-7000, "Protection Against Compromising Emanations," dated 25 June 2004, revised 10 January 2008; Intelligence Community (IC) Tech Spec-for ICD/ICS 705, "Technical Specifications for Construction and Management of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities," version 1.4, dated 28 September 2017; Committee on National Security Systems Advisory Memorandum (CNSSAM) TEMPEST/01-13, "Red/Black Installation Guidance," dated 17 January 2014.

d. OPSEC: See attached SOO for OPSEC guidance.

e. Export Control: Information involved in this research effort is 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 may be subject to export control, then a Certified DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, will be required to be submitted with proposal.

f. Export-Controlled Items: As prescribed by DFARS 225.7901-4, DFARS

252.225-7048, “Export-Controlled Item (JUN 2013)” is contained in this solicitation. This clause shall be contained in ALL resulting contracts.

g. Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS): Not applicable. However, if 6.4 funding is utilized, CPARS would be applicable to the part of the effort that is commensurate with the 6.4 funding.

6. Other Information:

a. Government Furnished Property (GFP) Availability: GFP is not anticipated to be made available under any resulting contract.

b. Base Support/Network Access: If required, Base Support must be requested on an individual Task Order basis. For those Task Orders requiring Base Support, on-site facilities will be provided throughout this program. Several in-house laboratories in Bldgs. 651, 652, 653, 654, 71, and 1621 will be made available (Note: Bldg. 1621 was formerly identified as Bldg. 71A, which is part of the LHMEL complex).

As of 24 May 2021

On-site office space, as well as Base computer/network access will be provided for those working full-time on-site. Base support in these buildings consists of internet access, office space and equipment (i.e.

desks, chairs, etc.) and phone services for contractor personnel. On-site contractor personnel will be provided computer accounts to the base computer network pending approval of systems access request and completion of the requisite training. Additional base support may be provided by the Government as needed for accomplishment of specific tasks.

Note: While the Government anticipates that some portion of the work could be performed on site at Wright-Patterson AFB, it is incumbent on the offeror to describe where the work is to be performed. No specific list of items is available, however, laboratory space could be made available if it matches the base support requested by the offeror.

c. Multiple awards subject to Fair Opportunity are anticipated, and will be applicable to ID/IQ contracts for similar work in which task orders will be competed.

d. Data Rights Desired:

(1) Noncommercial Technical Data: Unlimited Rights

(2) Noncommercial Computer Software (NCS): Unlimited Rights

(3) NCS Documentation: Unlimited Rights

(4) Commercial Computer Software Rights: Customary Commercial License consistent with Federal statutes and regulations

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 noncommercial technical data and NCS developed or delivered under this contract are of significant concern to the Government. The Government will therefore evaluate any restrictions on the use of noncommercial 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 accordance with DFARS 252.227-7013(b)(1) and 252.227-7014(b)(1), the Government shall receive unlimited rights in all noncommercial technical data and computer software developed exclusively with Government funds.

In accordance with DFARS 252.227-7013(b)(2) and DFARS 252.227- 7014(b)(2), the Government shall receive Government Purpose Rights in all noncommercial technical data and computer software developed with

As of 24 May 2021 mixed funding. “Developed with mixed funding” means, “development was accomplished partially with costs charged to indirect cost pools and/or costs not allocated to a government contract, and partially with costs charged directly to a government contract. Offerors that propose delivery of noncommercial technical data, NCS, or NCS documentation subject to Government Purpose Rights should fully explain how a portion of the data was developed at private expense. Specifically, offerors must explain what noncommercial 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.

Offerors that propose delivery of noncommercial technical data with Limited Rights, NCS with Restricted Rights, or NCS documentation with Limited Rights will be considered. Proposals should fully explain what noncommercial 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 and whether those portions or processes are segregable.

Offerors shall include the data rights assertions as required by DFARS 252.227-7017, Identification and Assertion of Restrictions on the Government’s Use, Release, or Disclosure of Technical Data or Computer Software. The assertions list is included in Section K and due at time of proposals. Assertions must be completed with specificity. Each assertion must identify the technical data or computer software to be delivered and the associated item, component, or process developed exclusively or partially at private expense to which it pertains. Nonconforming data rights assertion lists will not be accepted until submitted in accordance with DFARS 252.227-7017.

Terms used in this section are defined in the clauses at 252.227-7013, Rights in Technical Data-Noncommercial Items, and 252.227-7014, Rights in Noncommercial Computer Software and Noncommercial Computer Software Documentation.

THIRD PARTY SOFTWARE (COMMERCIAL AND NONCOMMERCIAL):

If any such software, noncommercial or commercial, is not reasonably identifiable at proposal submission, it must still be approved by the contracting officer prior to incorporation. This obligation to obtain pre-approval by the contracting officer, as described above, continues throughout contract administration.

As of 24 May 2021

Noncommercial Computer Software:

DFARS 252.227-7014(d) describes requirements for incorporation of third party noncommercial copyrighted computer software and computer software documentation and is incorporated as follows:

The Contractor shall not, without the written approval of the Contracting Officer, incorporate any copyrighted computer software or computer software documentation in the software or documentation to be delivered under this contract unless the Contractor is the copyright owner or has obtained for the Government the license rights necessary to perfect a license or licenses in the deliverable software or documentation of the appropriate scope set forth in DFARS 252.227- 7014(b), and prior to delivery of such—

(1) Computer software, has provided a statement of the license rights obtained in a form acceptable to the Contracting Officer;

or

(2) Computer software documentation, has affixed to the transmittal document a statement of the license rights obtained.

In addition, all noncommercial computer software will receive the appropriate level rights set forth in DFARS 252-7014(b), which could include: Unlimited rights, GPR, Restricted Rights, or specifically negotiated license.

Commercial Computer Software:

For commercial computer software, the Government will neither accept nor execute a DD Form 250 for such software deliverables until the Contractor obtains from all third party software suppliers and/or vendors (Licensor) licenses for any commercial computer software to be delivered that are consistent with Federal Statutes, Federal Case Law, and Federal Regulations.

II. AWARD INFORMATION

1. Anticipated Award Date: July 2022.

2. Anticipated funding: Refer to the following funding profiles:

Basic Contract - Overarching Program

FY 22 FY 23 FY 24 FY 25 FY 26 FY 27 FY 28 TOTAL

4,182,200 17,590,030 16,641,850 17,912,670 17,012,670 17,012,670 8,364,280 $98,716,370

Task Order 0001

FY 22 FY 23 FY 24 FY 25 FY 26 Total $1M $5M $5M $5M $4M $20M

Task Order 0002

FY 22 FY 23 FY 24 FY 25 FY 26 Total $1M $5M $5M $5M $4M $20M

Note: 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. Note: The maximum dollar amount for any task order awarded under the Basic ID/IQ is $20M.

III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

1. Eligible Offeror: This is an unrestricted solicitation. Small businesses are encouraged to propose.

2. Cost Sharing or Matching: Cost Sharing is not required.

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. 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, 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 Manager 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: Foreign participation at the prime contractor level is prohibited for the subject procurement.

b. This acquisition involves data subject to export control laws and regulations. Only contractors who are registered and certified with the Defense Logistics Agency and have a legitimate business purpose may participate in this solicitation. Contact the U.S./Canada Joint Certification Program Office, Defense Logistics Agency, Logistics Information Services J34, HDI Federal Center, 74 Washington Avenue N., Battle Creek, Michigan 49037-3084, (1-800-352-3572) or the Joint Certification Program Office (JCO) at JCP-Helpdesk@dla.mil for further information on the certification process. Offerors must submit an approved DD Form 2345, Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement, with the proposal.

c. There are no limits on the number of White Papers/proposals an offeror may submit. In the event multiple White Papers are submitted by one offeror, the government shall treat each White Paper on an individual basis.

d. You may be ineligible for award if all requirements of this Solicitation are not met on the White Paper (and later proposal) due dates as identified above.

IV. WHITE PAPER / PROPOSAL AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION

1. Overview: This Announcement consists of a Two-Step Process described in detail below. White Papers/Proposals submitted shall be in accordance with this Announcement. There will be no other solicitation issued in regard to this requirement.

ONLY WHITE PAPERS ARE BEING SOLICITED AT THIS TIME.

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

For additional information, a copy of the Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Guide for Industry is located at:

https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/HQ/BAA%20Ind%2 0Guide%202020.pdf?ver=7AivkWvoUoptKgypgCuIvw%3d%3d https://www.dla.mil/HQ/LogisticsOperations/Services/JCP/SpecificDD2345Instructions.aspx mailto:JCP-Helpdesk@dla.mil https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/HQ/BAA%20Ind%20Guide%202020.pdf?ver=7AivkWvoUoptKgypgCuIvw%3d%3d https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/HQ/BAA%20Ind%20Guide%202020.pdf?ver=7AivkWvoUoptKgypgCuIvw%3d%3d

2. FIRST STEP (WHITE PAPER) INSTRUCTIONS:

a. General: The FIRST STEP requests a White Paper and a Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) cost. The White Paper shall include a discussion of the nature and scope of the research and the offeror’s proposed technical approach. The Government will review the White Papers in accordance with the FIRST STEP Peer or Scientific Review criteria, set forth in Section V below. Based on this review, the Government will determine which of them have the potential to best meet the Air Force’s needs.

Offerors will be notified of the disposition of their White Paper. It is anticipated that Government review of the White Papers submitted will take approximately 21 calendar days. Only those offerors submitting White Papers assessed as meeting Air Force needs will be asked to submit a technical and cost proposal. Those offerors not requested to submit a technical and cost proposal based on unfavorable/unsuccessful White Papers will be excluded for further participation in this Announcement, and will be hereby notified, and will be eligible for a debriefing based on the White Paper review process.

Offerors are required to submit a White Paper in order to be eligible of an award. An offeror submitting a proposal without first submitting a White Paper will be ineligible for an award. The cost of preparing White Papers in response to this Announcement is not considered an allowable direct charge to any resulting or any other contract; however, it may be considered an allowable expense to the normal bid and proposal indirect cost as specified in FAR 31.205-18.

b. Page Limitation: The White Paper shall be limited to 5 pages for the overarching basic contract and 5 pages for each task order, and shall be prepared/submitted in Word format. The Font shall be standard 10-point business font Arial (you may use another font but only one font may be stated in the solicitation). Character spacing must be “normal,” not condensed in any manner. Pages shall be double-spaced (must use standard double-space function in Microsoft Word), double-sided (each side counts as one page), 8.5 by 11 inches, with at least one-inch margins on both sides, top and bottom. 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.

Pages shall be numbered starting with the cover page being Page 1, and the last page being no greater than Page 5 for the overarching basic contract and Page 5 for the task orders. 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. The Government will not consider pages in excess of these limitations.

c. White Paper Submission Requirements: White Papers are limited to only electronic (e-mail) submissions, and shall be transmitted to the Contracting POC that is identified in the Overview Information of this Announcement.

d. Format: The White Paper will be formatted as follows:

(1) Section A: BAA Number, Title of Program, Name of Company, Business Size, Company’s Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) number, Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number, Contracting POC and Technical POC with appropriate telephone numbers, fax numbers, and e-mail addresses for the POCs. Classified level at which company is cleared, contactor address for forwarding classified material (name, address, zip code), cognizant security office (name, address, zip code), and offeror’s security officer’s name and telephone number).

Note: The contents of Section A of the White Paper shall comprise the content in the Cover Page, and shall be housed in the area of the White Paper for the Basic Contract.

(2) Section B: Period of Performance and Task Objectives;

(3) Section C: Technical Summary and Proposed Deliverables; and

(4) Section D: Cost of Task (Rough Order of Magnitude - ROM).

e. Technical Portion (reference Section C): The technical portion of the White Paper shall include a discussion of the nature and scope of the research and the offeror’s proposed technical approach/solution. It may also include any proposed deliverables. Resumes, descriptions of facilities and equipment, a proposed Statement of Work are not required at this point.

A White Paper making a reference to the list of CDRL data deliverables shown in Section I.3 of this Announcement (with exceptions or additions specified by the offeror) is acceptable.

f. Cost Portion (reference Section D): The cost portion of the White Paper shall include a ROM cost estimate. No detailed price or cost support information should be forwarded; only a time-phased bottom line figure should be provided.

As of 24 May 2021

g. Other Information: Multiple White Papers within the purview of this Announcement may be submitted by each offeror. If the offeror wishes to restrict its White Papers, they must be marked with the restrictive language stated in FAR 52.215-1(e).

h. White Paper Content Summary: You may be ineligible for award if all requirements of Step One to this Announcement are not met on the White Paper due date.

3. SECOND STEP (PROPOSAL) INSTRUCTIONS:

a. General Instructions:

Delivery Instructions: Due to existing COVID-19 health safeguarding protocols, the AF requests that only electronic proposals be submitted using BOTH DoD SAFE (primary method) and e-mail (backup method) to the following addresses:

• Gary.Victor@us.af.mil (Primary Contracting POC e-mail address)

• Mark.Merrifield@us.af.mil (Secondary Contracting POC e-mail address)

The maximum e-mail file size the Government can receive is 20 MB.

If the offeror needs a DoD SAFE drop-off invite from the AF, please send that request to Gary.Victor@us.af.mil and/or Mark.Merrifield@us.af.mil no later than 7 days prior to the due date of proposals to ensure a drop off code is provided in a timely manner.

(1) The SECOND STEP consists of offerors submitting a technical and cost proposal consistent with the procedures documented in Step Two to this Announcement.

Only those offerors submitting White Papers in Step One to this Announcement assessed by the Government as meeting Agency needs will be asked to submit a technical and cost proposal. The government anticipates a period of 30 calendar days for the offeror to submit a proposal upon notice of request. After receipt, proposals will be reviewed in accordance with the award criteria in Section V. below. Proposals will be categorized and subsequently selected for negotiations.

(2) Offerors should apply the restrictive notice prescribed in 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 the following WebLink:

As of 24 May 2021 https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/HQ/BAA%20Ind%2 0Guide%202020.pdf?ver=7AivkWvoUoptKgypgCuIvw%3d%3d.

This guide is specifically designed to assist the offeror in understanding the BAA proposal process.

(3) Technical/management and cost/business volumes should be submitted in separate volumes and must be valid for 180 days.

(4) Proposals must reference the announcement # FA8650-22-S-5007, and reference the relevant research area(s).

a. The cost file(s) spreadsheets must be in formatted in MS Excel, and include the formulas for calculating cost element bases (i.e., G&A, O/H, etc.)

(5) Offerors are advised that only Contracting Officers are legally authorized to contractually bind or otherwise commit the Government.

(6) 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.

(7) No classified technical proposals or cost volumes are expected. Offerors are encouraged to keep all elements of the proposal package unclassified. In the rare case where an offeror has a need to submit a classified appendix, please contact the technical POC for delivery instructions.

b. Offerors must propose each of the following to be considered for an ID/IQ award:

(1) Overarching Basic Contract ID/IQ

a) Basic ID/IQ proposal-Technical and Management

b) Basic ID/IQ Statement of Work (SOW) in response to applicable

Statement of Objectives (SOO)

c) Basic ID/IQ Business Proposal (including Subcontracting Plan, if applicable, in accordance with FAR 19.7)

(2) Task Order (TO) 0001

a) TO 0001 Proposal -Technical and Management

b) TO 0001 SOW in response to applicable SOO https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/HQ/BAA%20Ind%20Guide%202020.pdf?ver=7AivkWvoUoptKgypgCuIvw%3d%3d https://www.afrl.af.mil/Portals/90/Documents/HQ/BAA%20Ind%20Guide%202020.pdf?ver=7AivkWvoUoptKgypgCuIvw%3d%3d

c) TO 0001 Cost (T.O. only) and Business Proposal

(3) Task Order (TO) 0002

a) TO 0002 Proposal-Technical and Management

b) TO 0002 SOW in response to applicable SOO

c) TO 0002 Cost (TOs only) and Business Proposal

Note: In order to be considered for an ID/IQ award, an offeror must submit a proposal for the overarching Basic ID/IQ and for both task orders in this Announcement.

c. Technical/Management Proposal:

(1) Page Limitations: The following describes proposal page limitations:

a) The Technical/Management Proposal shall be limited to 50 pages for the Overarching Basic ID/IQ Contract, and the Technical/Management Proposal shall be limited to 20 pages each for TOs 0001 and TO 0002 with the pages, 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), double sided (each side counts as one page), 8.5 by 11 inches, with at least one-inch margins on both sides, top and bottom.

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 for the Overarching Basic ID/IQ Contract Proposal shall be numbered starting with the cover page being Page 1, and the last page being no greater than Page 50. Similarly, pages for the TOs 0001 and TO 0002 Proposals shall be numbered starting with the cover page being Page 1, and the last page being no greater than Page 20. The page limitation covers all information including indices, photographs, foldouts (counted as 1

As of 24 May 2021 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); however, the same formatting rules apply to the SOW. The SOW page limits are the following:

• 15 pages for the Overarching Basic ID/IQ Contract

• 5 pages each for the SOW’s for TO’s 0001 and TO 0002.

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 for review purposes.

(2) The Technical/Management proposal(s) shall include a discussion of the nature and scope of the research and the technical approach.

The Technical/Management proposal(s) for the Basic ID/IQ, T.O.

0001 and T.O. 0002 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, use of base support (if desired), data and facilities and resumes of personnel who will be participating in this effort should also be included as attachments to the technical proposal. These volumes shall include SOWs detailing the technical tasks proposed to be accomplished under the proposed effort and suitable for contract incorporation. Offerors shall not include any proprietary information in the SOW. Refer to the BAA Guide for Industry referenced above to assist in SOW preparation. In addition to the contractor proposed SOW, a Government generated SOW attachment containing additional contracting requirements will be included in any resulting contracts. The SOO for the overarching program (Basic Contract) is referenced in the Supplemental Information to this Announcement (page 2). SOO’s for Task Orders 0001 and 0002 are also referenced in the Supplemental Information to this Announcement (page 2).

(3) Questions concerning the technical proposal or SOW preparation shall be referred to the Technical POC’s in this Announcement.

d. Cost/Business Proposal:

(1) Separate the proposal into a business section and cost section.

Adequate price competition is anticipated.

a) See Attachment 1 for the Model Contract (SF 33). Note that the document awarded may include contract line items (CLINs)/clauses http://www.afrl.af.mil/contract/default.htm http://www.afrl.af.mil/contract/default.htm

As of 24 May 2021 in addition to those in the model contract, and/or some of the CLIN/clauses in the model may be deleted, depending on the specific circumstances of the individual award. Any additions or deletions will be negotiated with the offeror prior to award.

b) The business section should contain all business aspects to the proposed contract, such as type of contract, any exceptions to terms and conditions of the announcement including the model contract, any information not technically related, etc. Provide rationale for exceptions.

c) Associate Contractor Agreements: Associate Contractor Agreements (ACAs) are agreements between contractors working on Government contracts that require them to share information, data, technical knowledge, expertise, or resources. The contracting officer may require ACAs when contractors working on separate Government contracts must cooperate, share resources or otherwise jointly participate in working on contracts or projects. Prime contractor to subcontractor relationships do not constitute ACAs.

For each award, the contracting officer will identify associate contractors with whom agreements are required.

d) Identify any technical data that will be delivered with less than unlimited rights.

e) Subcontracting Plans: For efforts to exceed $750,000, Subcontracting Plans shall be submitted in the cost/business proposal. Reference FAR 19.704 and DFARS 219.704 for subcontracting plan requirements. Small business concerns are exempt from this requirement. The basis for the subcontracting plan should reflect the entire ceiling amount of the proposed Basic Contract ID/IQ.

f) Limitations on Pass-Through Charges: As prescribed in FAR 15.408(n)(1) & 15.408(n)(2), provisions 52.215-22, “Limitations on Pass Through Charges- Identification of Subcontract Effort (Oct 2009),” apply.

g) Completed Certifications and Representations (Section K) are due with the proposal. Certifications and Representations are enclosed in the body of the Model Contract (Attachment 1) – Section K. Offerors may also be required to submit updated or supplemental Certifications and Representations based on the specifics of their proposal.

As of 24 May 2021

h) If an offeror proposes the use of Government Furnished Property (GFP), other than GFP identified in the BAA, the offer must specifically identify each piece of GFP in the Cost/Business Proposal and propose and substantiate a rental cost for evaluation purposes in accordance with FAR 45.202. Include the following information in the proposal:

(i) A list describing 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);

(ii) The dates during which the property will be used 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;

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

(iv) 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.

(2) Cost Element Breakdown: Clear, concise, and accurate cost proposals reflect the offeror's financial plan for accomplishing the effort contained in the technical proposal. As a part of its cost proposal, the offeror shall submit the information outlined below, together with supporting breakdowns. All direct costs (labor, material, travel, computer, etc.) as well as labor and overhead rates shall be stated by calendar year. Detailed cost element breakdowns by Government Fiscal Year or calendar year are not required. The supporting schedules may include summary level estimating rationale used to generate the proposed costs. The cost element breakdown(s) should include the following if applicable.

a) Direct Labor: Direct labor should be detailed by number of labor hours by category of labor.

b) Labor and Overhead Rates: Direct labor hours, with their applicable rates, must be broken out and the bases used clearly identified. The source of labor and overhead rates and all pricing factors should be identified. For instance, if a Forward Pricing Rate Agreement (FPRA) is in existence, that should be noted, along with the Administrative Contracting Officer’s (ACO's) name and telephone number. If the rates are based on current experience in your organization, provide the historical base used and clearly identify all escalation, by year, applied to derive the proposed

As of 24 May 2021 rates. If computer usage is determined by a rate, identify the basis used and rationale used to derive the rate.

c) Material/Equipment: List all material/equipment items by type and kind with associated costs and advise if the costs are based on vendor quotes, data and/or engineering estimates; provide copies of vendor quotes and/or catalog pricing data.

d) Subcontractor Costs: Submit all subcontractor proposals and analyses with your cost proposal (See FAR 15.404-3(b)). If the subcontractor will not submit cost and pricing information to the offeror, this information must be submitted directly to the Government for analysis. On all subcontracts and interdivisional transfers, provide the method of selection used to determine the subcontractor and the proposed contract type of each subcontract.

An explanation shall be provided if the offeror proposes a different amount than that quoted by the subcontractor. The offeror’s proposal must:

(i) Identify principal items/services to be subcontracted.

(ii) Identify prospective subcontractors and the basis on which they were selected. If non-competitive, provide selected source justification.

(iii) Identify the type of contractual business arrangement contemplated for the subcontract and provide rationale

(iv) Identify the basis for the subcontract costs (e.g., firm quote or engineering estimate, etc.).

(v) Identify the cost or pricing data submitted by the subcontractor.

(vi) Provide an analysis of the proposed subcontract in accordance with FAR 15.404-3(b). Provide an analysis concerning the reasonableness, realism and completeness of each subcontractor’s proposal. If the analysis is based on comparison with prior prices, identify the basis on which the prior prices were determined to be reasonable. The analysis should include, but not be limited to, an analysis of: materials, labor, travel, other direct costs and proposed profit or fee rates.

e) Special Tooling or Test Equipment: When special tooling, and/or test equipment is proposed, attach a brief description of items and indicate if they are solely for the performance of this particular contract or project and if they are or are not already available in the offeror's existing facilities. Indicate quantities, unit prices, whether items are to be purchased or fabricated, whether items are of a severable nature and the basis of the price. These items may be included under Direct Material in the summary format.

f) Consultants: When consultants are proposed to be used in the performance of the contract, indicate the specific project or area in which such services are to be used. Identify each consultant, number of hours or days to be used and the consultant's rate per hour or day. State the basis of said rate and give your analysis of the acceptability of the consultant's rate.

g) Travel: Travel costs must be justified and related to the needs of the project. Identify the number of trips, the destination and purpose. Travel costs should be broken out by trip with number of travelers, airfare, per diem, lodging, etc.

h) Computer Use: Detail the amount and kind of computer usage, the cost, and how the costs were derived.

i) Facilities Capital Cost of Money: If Facilities Capital Cost of

Money is proposed, a properly executed DD Form 1861 is required.

j) Project Funding Profile: Offerors should include a project funding profile by Government Fiscal Year (GFY) (1 Oct through 30 Sept) for budgetary purposes. This will enable the Government to easily identify program funding needs by GFY.

k) If an offeror takes exceptions to the requirements called out in the announcement (e.g., base support, Government-furnished property (GFP), CDRLs), the exceptions should be clearly stated in the cost proposal.

l) 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.

m) Cost/Business proposals have no page limitations.

e. Proposal Content Summary: You may be ineligible for award if all requirements of Step Two of this Announcement are not met on the proposal due date.

3. Funding Restrictions: None.

V. White Paper / Proposal Review Information

As of 24 May 2021

1. FIRST STEP – White Paper Peer or Scientific Review Criteria: The Government will review White Papers to determine which of them have the potential to best meet the Air Force’s needs based on the following criteria:

The offeror’s understanding of the full scope of the technical effort as evidenced by a unique, innovative, and sound approach proposed to provide a reasonable expectation of the ability to accomplish the technical objectives of the basic contract and each of the Task Orders.

2. SECOND STEP – Proposal Peer or Scientific Review Criteria: The Basic

ID/IQ Peer or Scientific Review (at overarching level) is of greater importance than TOs 0001 and 0002 Peer or Scientific Reviews. TOs 0001 and 0002 Peer or Scientific Reviews are of equal importance to each other. Offerors must be selected for a Task Order in order to be eligible for a Basic ID/IQ award.

Proposals will be reviewed against the criteria listed below. The technical aspect, which is ranked as the first order of priority, shall be reviewed based on the following criteria that are in descending order of importance.

a. Technical Criteria – Overarching Basic ID/IQ Contract (evaluated in descending order of importance):

(1) The offeror’s understanding of the scope of the technical effort.

(2) Soundness of the offeror’s technical approach including whether the proposal identifies major technical risks, clearly defines feasible mitigation efforts, and demonstrates related experience and qualifications of technical personnel.

(3) 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.

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

b. Technical Criteria - Task Orders 0001 and 0002 (evaluated in descending order of importance): The Peer or Scientific Reviews for Task Orders 0001 and 0002 are of equal importance and are weighted equally.

(1) The offeror’s understanding of the scope of the technical effort.

(2) Soundness of the offeror’s technical approach including whether the proposal identifies major technical risks, clearly defines feasible mitigation efforts, and demonstrates related experience and qualifications of technical personnel.

(3) 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.

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

c. Cost/Price: The cost/price criterion includes the realism of the proposed cost. 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).

3. SECOND STEP / PROPOSAL - Review and Selection Process

a. Categories: Based on the Peer or Scientific Review, proposals will be categorized as Selectable or Not Selectable (see definitions below). The selection of one or more sources for award will be based on the Peer or Scientific Review, as well as importance to agency programs and funding availability.

(1) Selectable: Proposals are recommended for acceptance if sufficient funding is available

(2) Not Selectable: Even if sufficient funding existed, the proposal should not be funded.

b. No other criteria will be used.

c. Prior to award of a potentially…