SPE4A725R0716_Redacted.pdf

This is a Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (CUI Form S53, November 2024) submitted by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Aviation for a sole source acquisition of fuel cell aircraft components.

The acquisition seeks supplies with NSN/PN 1560-01/7081071 in an estimated annual quantity of 80 units and a 5-year quantity of 80 units. The contract type is a Firm Fixed-Price (FFP) Indefinite Quantity Contract (IQC) for a 5-year base period with no options. The total estimated dollar value is redacted but falls within the range requiring Competition Advocate approval (over $750,000 but not exceeding $15,000,000). The solicitation number is SPE4A7230716, and the document identification number is 1000206462. The justification cites 10 U.S.C. 3204(a)(1) as the statutory authority for restricting competition to limited sources. Two identified sources capable of supplying the required items are BHPE LLC (CAGE 9SWS7) and American Fuel Cell and Coated Fabrics (CAGE 05476), with Bell Textron Inc. (CAGE 97499) also listed. A sources sought notice was posted on Contract Opportunities on June 27, 2025, resulting in BHPE LLC's response and receipt of SAR package submission instructions. The justification is based on technical data unavailability and the requirement for engineering source approval to maintain part quality, citing AMSC C authority. The acquisition will be synopsized on July 18, 2025, with any firm requesting a solicitation copy to be provided one. The Contracting Officer, Competition Advocate, and Head of Contracting Activity have all approved the justification as of July 29, 2025.