Jimsphere Balloons - SSJ - Redacted_Redacted.pdf

This is a Single Source Justification (Simplified Acquisition) document dated April 2021 for a federal contract action by the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) Air Force Space Command (AFSC).

The acquisition is for the 309th Software Engineering Group (SWEG) 520AD program and requires a Jimsphere High Resolution Wind Profiler with a 2-meter diameter and clear 1/2 mil polyester film (Part Number JC20-12-05) manufactured exclusively by Meteorological Products Incorporated. Delivery must not exceed 120 days after receipt of order. The justification establishes that only Meteorological Products Incorporated is a viable single source because the Jimsphere balloon is the only approved weather balloon for the Western and Eastern Ranges and possesses unique technologies unavailable from competitors, including exterior nodules with radar reflective technology, advanced radiosonde capabilities, and seamless integration with existing 520AD program devices. The Atmospheric Meteorological Profiling System (AMPS) at Vandenberg Space Force Base requires this specific balloon to provide mandatory upper air wind speed, direction, and thermodynamic data for launch planning.

Market research efforts included searches of AbilityOne, GSA 2 GIT, GSA Advantage, NASA SEWP, and SAM.gov, as well as an RFI posted March 6, 2025, which yielded no viable alternatives. The contracting officer determined on May 13, 2026, that circumstances warrant single-source procurement under FAR 6.103-1, with an OEM letter of contract action filed as notice to the Original Equipment Manufacturer.