(Redacted) Sole Source Justification.pdf

Single Source Justification (Simplified Acquisition)

Section A: General Contract Information

Contracting Activity: AFLCMC/PZIBB Purchase Request/ F4F0AY5045A001 Identification Number:

Project/Program Name: ABW MPU-5 Radio and Antennas Estimated Contract Cost (including Options):

Section B: Description of the Supplies/Services Required

This procurement is for the acquisition of MPU5s radios, antennas and additional materials to support the Base Oversight of Autonomous Response mission. 88 ABW, specifically the Strategic Initiatives office, has a requirement to establish autonomous drone operations with video. This procurement is an enhancement to the mission and will be purchased from a GSA Contract

Section C: Justification for Soliciting from a Single Source

We conducted extensive research and determined that this vendor is the leading and sole distributor of the MPU5 Wave Relay radio and its associated hardware. The unit requires a Smart Handheld radio that integrates seamlessly with the Team Awareness Kit (TAK) family of systems. It provides a large-scale, self-healing mesh network for voice and data communication. This equipment has been field-tested locally during multiple AF Marathon BOAR missions and named one of two Air Force pilot bases utilized for research and development purposes related to this capability. The equipment and technology was tested, vetted and cleared through the RD&T phases of BOAR development. The MPU5 is reliable, delivers real-time situational awareness, and is compatible with various systems that support not only the BOAR mission but others as well. The 88 CS and other end-users have experience using Persistent Systems equipment. Other vendors offering similar radio specifications did not meet government requirements due to compatibility issues or experience with the devices.

Section D: Efforts to Obtain Competition

Every effort was made to identify equivalent products from as many sources as possible. Market research indicated that attempts to acquire these unique offerings from alternative suppliers would likely be unsuccessful and, therefore, would not meet the government's requirements. Additionally this technology has been vetted and tested through the RD&T phases of the BOAR missions. Market research included reviewing L3Harris and Doodlelabs and their equipment is point to point versus beyond line of sight which will allow the unit to send live video feeds through multiple panel connections. Persistent Systems, as a SBC COTS OEM, is the sole distributor within the US for the MPU-5 Radio system. The MPU5 Wave Relay® radio and associated hardware and accessories are proprietary products developed by Persistent Systems. No other vendor is qualified to provide a set of integrated kits we need for their MPU5 Wave Relay radio, nor is any other vendor capable of providing a warranty on these radio systems. Vendor currently has a GSA contract or which some of the items can be purchased through GSA advantage or directly with the Vendor.

Section E: Steps to Preclude Future Single Source Awards

We will continue investigating and research to identify other systems that could meet the government's requirements. This research will include exploring future testing and development opportunities, as well as conducting a market survey to determine potential sources and their compatibility with mission requirements, and conducting a market survey to determine potential future sources and their compatibility to meet mission requirements.

Section F: Contracting Officer's Determination

I have determined, in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1), that the circumstances of this contract action deem only a single source is reasonably available.

Date Typed Name and Rank/Grade of Contracting Officer Signature of Contracting Officer