JA HELMET PROGRAM_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition document for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Troop Support, Clothing and Textiles Supply Chain to procure helmet program component items for the U.S. Marine Corps.

The procurement involves two Thales Avionics helmet components: a Hinge Block Section (NSN 8475-14-584-4800, part number F1515863, quantity 139) and a Visor, Flyer's Helmet (NSN 8415-14-572-2226, part number F1517779, quantity 69), for a total quantity of 208 units. The contract will be a Firm Fixed-Price (FFP), fixed-quantity arrangement. The items are non-clothing, non-textile components and therefore not subject to Berry Amendment domestic sourcing restrictions. The statutory authority cited is 10 U.S.C. § 3204(a)(1), implemented through FAR Part 6.302-1 (Only One Responsible Source). The justification establishes that Thales Avionics SAS in France is the sole known manufacturer with the proprietary technical data rights, specialized equipment, and expertise to produce items meeting USMC operational and safety requirements. Government-owned specifications are unavailable, and the head tracking system algorithms, operating frequencies, and system logic are French Government-protected technologies not available for competitive solicitation. A Request for Information (RFI) was issued in July 2025 via Contract Opportunities at SAM.gov, with market research conducted directly with Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI) in April and June 2025. The document is dated October 2, 2025, and is signed by Contracting Officer Maria Aguayo and supporting agency officials.