Single Source Justification-redacted.pdf

Single Source Justification (Simplified Acquisition)

CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION (CUI)

November 2018 CONTROLLED UNCLASSIFIED INFORMATION (CUI) Page 2 of 3

Testing will be accomplished at a predetermined location on Scott AFB and be accomplished utilizing a retro-fitted commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) tractor supplied by the contractor.

The testing to be performed must include the following:

1. Be conducted on an area to replicate a section of the airfield.

2. Be done under all conditions/times that the autonomous mower is expected to operate.

3. Include reviewing the frequencies required, the range of signal and its power output and confirming with that these frequencies/power output will not adversely affect autonomous mower operations nor Radar airfield weather system, (RAWS) or aircraft systems.

4. Include the testing of the mock short notice emergency recall button.

5. Include two way communication to ensure that someone can stop the mower by speaking.

6. Include the contractor creating a report listing all data regarding incidents, of stoppage, out of boundary, or any other interference, as well as how to mitigate these issues.

7. Status updates of testing and results to be reported to the Government weekly.

A firm-fixed-price (FFP) purchase order will be utilized for this acquisition using FAR Part 12 and 13 procedures.

Section C: Justification for Soliciting from a Single Source or Brand Name

Autonomous transportation was identified in the commercial marketplace, to include mowing capabilities. Market research found several companies that provide autonomous mowers; however, the units are small in size and will not fit the need of the Government's large grass/mowing areas.

Therefore, the Government is looking for the capability to retro-fit commercial off-the self (COTS) software technology onto tractors tractors since large machines are needed to mow the approximate 580 acres around the flight line and surrounding fields. Additionally, by utilizing Government-owned COTS tractors, the cost is anticipated to be less for the initial procurement, maintenance, and repair.

A Request for Information (RFI) was posted to SAM.gov on 29 July 2021 with a closing date of 10 August 2021 seeking vendors interested in and capable of providing the required testing. The RFI requested vendors reply with a Capability Statement and identify, in addition to any pertinent company information, related past performance information and the percentage they are capable of providing the following in accordance with (IAW) the Draft Statement of Objectives

(SOO):

Phase I - Off Airport Test Phase II - Isolated On-Airport Test Phase III - Critical Areas Test Phase IV - Limited Autonomous Operations Phase V - Full Operations

Two vendors responded to the RFI: Sabanto, Inc. (small business, CAGE 956S4) and

The two Capability Statements were sent to 375 AMW/DIO and CES/CEOER for review. Based on a review of the capability statements, stated, "Sabanto's product has the demonstrated capability to mow a field, does not have that capability and their product is geared towards combat operations more than commercial agriculture and not towards performing tasks like mowing and moving along a set path for the purpose of having an area clear of grass or debris". Additionally, stated, "the intent of the government is to see the capability of modifying (retrofitting) COTS products for the use of autonomous mowing. This is a cost effective way to use the products the Air Force already possesses to accomplish a currently manned task. Sabanto's product matches this capability as they currently have a modified COTS product. Although, has autonomous vehicles, it does not have