Redacted JA 2025-08 50M Steel Buffer C3 v2_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (J&A) document for a bilateral agreement to modify contract SP8000-22-C-0008 with Latrobe Specialty Metals Company (acquired by Carpenter Technology Corporation). The modification aims to increase the strategic buffer quantities of bearing grade specialty steel materials for the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Industrial Capability Program, specifically for three steel grades (440C, 52100, and M50) used in bearings and bearing-related components.

The document justifies sole-source procurement from Carpenter Technology as the only current source capable of supplying these specialized steel materials with high heat resistance and durability. The contract modification will increase the total contract buffer quantity by 6,885,108 pounds across the three steel grades. The current contract is in its third year, with the base year and Option Year 1 completed, and is currently in Option Year 2 (September 2024 to September 2025). The intended bilateral agreement will allow DLA time to develop industrial base capabilities and potentially compete future solicitations, with the contract potentially expiring on September 22, 2027, if all options are exercised.