Sole Source Justification and Approval_Cubic Boron Nitride Waterjet_Redacted.pdf

This Justification and Approval (J&A) document is for the Department of the Air Force, seeking to purchase ultra high water jet stripping systems for Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) Water Jet applications. The procurement involves a single-source acquisition from Progressive Surface Inc. for three (3) water jet systems with an estimated total contract value of $10 million, spanning fiscal years 2026-2028. The systems are highly specialized, consisting of an enclosure, 6-axis robotic arm, water jet nozzle, and other components designed to strip Dymax maskings off integrated blade rotors for jet engine parts.

The J&A highlights that Progressive Surface Inc. is the only firm capable of providing these custom water jet systems, with no other vendors meeting the government's requirements. A Sources Sought Synopsis was posted on 8 Aug 2025, which closed with three vendors expressing interest, but none were deemed capable of meeting the precise technical specifications. The procurement is justified by the unique capabilities of Progressive Surface Inc., including their ability to duplicate existing water jet systems, minimize requalification costs, and provide specialized maintenance. The contract will be awarded in June 2025, with each water jet system priced at approximately $1.4 million and an estimated 12-month delivery timeline for each purchase order.