Redacted_Other Than Full Open Competition _Bruker D8 XRD.pdf

J&A Number: N00167-26-SIMACQ-CD-61-0006 metadata within each data file, ensuring the data can be reproduced, validated, and compared over time. These features are unique to the Bruker ecosystem and cannot be replicated or supported through third-party or competing vendor platforms.

The proprietary nature of the software and integration with existing Bruker systems in our facility limits compatibility with other vendors' platforms. Market research confirms that similar products from competitors (e.g., Rigaku or Malvern Panalytical) use different software platforms and detector architectures, which are not interoperable and would disrupt data continuity and user workflows.

Awarding this contract to a source other than Bruker AXS LLC would significantly hinder our ability to maintain seamless integration with our current Bruker infrastructure, resulting in operational inefficiencies, additional training requirements, and loss of continuity in long-term data sets critical to our ongoing materials characterization research.

Other vendor systems are not interchangeable due to proprietary formats, resulting in significant risk to workflow efficiency, data reliability, and mission timelines. For these reasons, Bruker AXS LLC is the only responsible source that can fulfill this requirement without unacceptable delays or compromise to research continuity.

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

Efforts were made to assess other potential sources during the market research phase. This included a review of available X-ray diffractometer systems from Rigaku and Malvern Panalytical. However, these systems use incompatible software platforms, detector configurations, and data formats that are not interoperable with existing Bruker hardware and DIFFRAC.SUITETM software currently in use at our facility.

Due to the proprietary nature of the Bruker system architecture and software, and the requirement for continuity across ongoing projects, it was determined that procuring from alternative sources would introduce unacceptable risk to data integrity, workflow efficiency, and system maintenance. No other vendor offers a system that meets the technical requirements while maintaining compatibility with our current infrastructure.

Accordingly, no further solicitations were issued, as Bruker AXS LLC is the sole source capable of providing the required equipment, software, and support services for the D8 Advance XRD system. This conclusion is supported by market research and vendor documentation provided by Bruker.

Pursuant to FAR 13.501(a)(1)(iii), the Government will make this justification available on the Government point of entry (SAM.gov).

The Government will ensure that the contract file will be documented as to any responses received from making the justification available.

7. Determination of Fair and Reasonable Costs

In accordance with FAR 13.106-3(a), the Procuring Contracting Officer (PCO) shall ensure that all services provided under the anticipated contract are procured at a fair and reasonable price. The Government will require the contractor to submit a formal price proposal and sufficient information to support the accuracy and reliability of the estimate. The PCO shall determine that the proposed order represents the best value (as defined in FAR 2.101) to meet the Government’s needs. The PCO will also rely on Code 615’s experienced technical experts and information from prior procurements conducted by the Navy where the same (or comparable) XRD systems were procured, when conducting the price analysis. This information will form the basis for a fair and reasonable price.

8. Actions to Remove Barriers to Competition

The government will continue to monitor the X-ray Diffractometer market for emerging technologies and alternative vendors by engaging in industry outreach through symposiums, technical conferences, vendor demonstrations, academic publications, and product literature.

Future procurements will consider systems that offer compatibility with or seamless integration into the current Bruker-based infrastructure, including DIFFRAC.SUITETM software and proprietary detector formats.

Should other vendors develop equipment that meets technical requirements while ensuring interoperability with our existing data and workflows, they will be evaluated for future acquisitions. The Government will also assess open architecture platforms, industry trends towards modularity, vendor willingness to meet integration standards to increase competitive opportunities.

Accordingly, the Government will reexamine future procurement strategies with a goal of fostering competition and reducing reliance on a single-source provider, where feasible, while maintaining mission continuity.

CERTIFICATIONS AND APPROVAL

TECHNICAL/REQUIREMENTS CERTIFICATION (FAR 6.303-2(c))

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

TECHNICAL AND REQUIREMENTS COGNIZANCE:

Kimberly Garvin (Code 615) 301-227-4165 Date

LEGAL SUFFICIENCY REVIEW (NMCARS 5206.303(90))

I have determined this justification is legally sufficient.

Legal Counsel (Code) Phone No. Date

CONTRACTING OFFICER CERTIFICATION (FAR 13.501(a)(2)(i))

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

Kristen Duhaime (Code) Phone No. Date

APPROVAL BLOCK (FAR 13.501(a)(2)(ii) for a proposed contract exceeding $900,000, the Advocate for Competition approval)

DUHAIME.KRISTEN.M Digitally signed by

DUHAIME.KRISTEN.M.

Date: 2026.01.14 06:27:26 -05'00'

Upon the basis of the above justification, I hereby approve, as the solicitation of the proposed procurement(s) described herein using other than full and open competition, pursuant to the authority of 10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(1).

(TITLE OF APPROVING OFFICIAL)

Signature Name (Print) Date