Core_Systems_Servers_JA_Signatures_Rev1_Redacted.pdf

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4. Identification of Exception to Fair Opportunity Process

41 U.S.C. § 1901 as implemented by the streamlined FAR 12.102 model deviation text, Restricting competition.

5. Rationale Justifying Use of Cited Statutory Authority

The server’s internal components are

It is the only configuration validated, certified, and approved for procurement by the program’s sponsor. The Rugged Systems chassis is engineered for rugged, mission-critical deployments designed for embedded field use; it is Military Standard 461 (MIL-STD-461) compliant, conformal coated, and housed in a drip-resistant chassis. The ruggedized chassis design, memory capacity, Central Processing Unit (CPU), and Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) configuration function at the system’s required processing level and will maintain operability in harsh fleet environments. This reliable computing power, customizable configuration, and rugged design are non-negotiable for meeting the server’s technical capability. Additionally, the equipment is Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliant, and a Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) assessment was completed by the vendor to support this procurement. Maintaining the

Because these systems are already deployed and integrated into the program's mission framework, the custom configuration and ruggedized chassis have already proven their ability to withstand the environmental and processing demands of the fleet. This makes it the only sponsor-approved, viable solution for continued operational success, building upon historical contract

, which was awarded to Rugged Systems, Inc., doing business as Core Systems, on 3 September 2025. Failure to procure the requested hardware will result in the

It is estimated that procuring an alternative would compromise the integrity of the entire network, leading to unacceptable data loss and system-wide failures. This would force a complete redesign of the network hardware architecture and a re-qualification of all network components. It is estimated that this hardware redesign, integration, and subsequent requalification testing (including rigorous network load, data integrity, and full system-level performance validations) would cost the government an additional and result in a program deployment delay of at least 24 months. This additional time and additional cost could 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 internet searches, contacting the original equipment manufacturer and obtaining a market research quote. This market research has confirmed that Core Systems is the proprietor of the equipment with Core Systems confirming there are no authorized resellers available for this specific proprietary equipment. Only Core Systems can meet the requirements without significantly reducing the requested capabilities. No other

J&A Number:

manufacturer’s product will meet the Government’s minimum requirements. The proposed requirement will be posted on System for Award Management (SAM) website (SAM.gov).

7. Determination of Fair and Reasonable Costs

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 Competition

For the reasons set forth in Paragraph 5, NSWCDD has no plans at this time to compete future contracts for the types of supplies/services covered by this document. If another potential source emerges, NSWCDD will assess whether competition for future requirements is feasible.

9. Contracting Point of Contact

The point of contact for this requirement is Jessica Gallagher 540-742-4098, Jessica.b.gallagher2.civ@us.navy.mil