1.04a Sole Source Memorandum_Redacted.pdf

This is a Memorandum to the File documenting a sole source decision for a federal acquisition.

The contracting officer is procuring a Kilobaser One XT DNA/RNA Synthesizer and related Sustainment/Operational Components for the Naval Medical Research Unit Europe Africa Central Command (NAMRU-EAC). The synthesizer must provide on-demand DNA and RNA synthesis capability with a fully integrated workflow encompassing sample preparation, sequencing, and primary data analysis for research purposes only. The equipment must feature a compact bench-top design suitable for deployment in austere environments with limited infrastructure and the capability to operate both with and without internet connectivity. The contracting officer has determined that only Kilobaser Corporation can satisfy the agency's requirements and concludes that only one responsible source exists for this procurement. The rationale for the sole source determination centers on NAMRU-EAC's mission to conduct forward-deployed bio surveillance across Europe, Africa, and Central Command. The Kilobaser One-XT's independent offline DNA/RNA synthesis capacity and portability eliminate reliance on external vendors for oligonucleotide synthesis during urgent outbreak scenarios, while simultaneously maintaining data security by enabling sensitive research to remain in-house without internet connectivity requirements. Market research confirmed that competing brands exist but do not meet NAMRU-EAC's specific requirements, as alternative systems are heavier, more complex, lab-based equipment requiring vacuum cabinets and fixed infrastructure unsuitable for field deployment. The procurement is conducted under FAR 12.102 and 6.103-1 authority for sole source acquisitions at or below the simplified acquisition threshold.