JA - Final_Redacted_6.30.26.pdf

J&A No.: J&A13.501-26-TS11

As the architect of NRL’s 5G NR Distributed Wireless Network Testbed procured under N0017323P2046, only AT&T has the necessary detailed understanding and knowledge of the existing system settings that is required to perform this integration effort while at the same time ensuring the existing 5G network capabilities will still continue to operate independently of the ASCD RAN site and RIC. Furthermore, NRL has an annual software license and maintenance agreement for its Testbed with AT&T through 14 February 2028, inclusive of options. Attempting to utilize another vendor for this integration work could jeopardize the integrity of the system and nullify this agreement. Over the three-year period, the total costs of the software license and maintenance agreement is valued at $ and would not be recovered through full and open competition.

The only other solution would be for a vendor to provide a separate standalone 5G network to integrate the RAN site and RIC with. This effort would result in excessive hardware costs for an unnecessary duplicate network capable of hosting the ASCD RAN site and RIC, as well as an unacceptable delay in the procurement and delivery of the new 5G network. It is estimated that it would cost approximately $1,500,000.00 to procure the duplicate network capable of controlling the GFE ASCD RAN site that would not be recovered through full and open competition.

6. Description of Efforts Made to Solicit Offers from as Many Offerors as Practicable

Market research was performed through contacting knowledgeable individuals in Government and conducting internet searches, but the Government was unsuccessful in locating additional vendors that could fulfil this requirement given the proprietary nature of the existing AT&T system.

Additionally, the Government posted a Notice of Intent to Sole Source this requirement to SAM.gov during the period of 05 June 2026 through 12 June 2026. In accordance with FAR 5.207(c)(16)(ii), this notice included a statement that all responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation which shall be considered by the agency. The Government did not receive any indication from industry that other capable vendors exist in the marketplace.

7. Determination of Fair and Reasonable Cost

The Contracting Officer has determined the anticipated cost to the Government of the supplies/services covered by this J&A will be fair and reasonable.

8. Actions to Remove Barriers to Future Competition

For the reasons set forth in Paragraph 5, NRL has no plans at this time to compete future contracts for the type of equipment and services covered by this document. Code 5731 routinely monitors the commercial marketplace using the internet and publications to stay informed on current state-of-the-art laboratory equipment alternatives that could be used to further work at NRL. If another potential source emerges, NRL will assess whether competition for future requirements is feasible.

J&A No.: J&A13.501-26-TS11

CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVAL

TECHNICAL/REQUIREMENTS CERTIFICATION

I certify that the facts and representations under my cognizance, which are included in this Justification and its supporting acquisition planning documents, except as noted herein, are complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge and belief.

LEGAL SUFFICIENCY REVIEW

I have determined that this Justification is legally sufficient.

CONTRACTING OFFICER CERTIFICATION

I certify that this Justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

CONTRACTING OFFICER APPROVAL

Upon the basis of the above justification, I hereby approve, as the Contracting Officer, the solicitation of the proposed procurement described herein using other than full and open competition, pursuant to the authority of 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1).