SSJ - Redacted.pdf

This is a Determination & Findings document authorizing a sole source acquisition from Oxford Industries Asylum Research, Inc. for a micro load frame and training equipment to be integrated with a Jupiter XR Atomic Force Microscope (AFM). The contracting activity is AFRL/RMZB at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio (Contract #45433-5309), with the Contracting Officer identified as Chris Stokes, dated August 5, 2026.

The procurement is justified under RFO 12.102(a) (Commercial Products and Services), citing that only one source is available. Market research conducted by AFRL/RABE identified four companies capable of supplying a micro load frame compatible with the Jupiter XR AFM, but only the NanoRack-JUP manufactured by Oxford Industries Asylum Research fully integrates with the AFM software and control systems. The integration of the micro load frame with AFM control increases efficiency in analyzing energetic material samples and reduces data generation errors. The determination notes that pursuing a small business set-aside is not feasible, as no two responsible small businesses could provide competitive quotations in terms of price, quality, and delivery. Consequently, the acquisition will proceed as a single source purchase under FAR Part 12 (Commercial Products and Commercial Services) rather than setting it aside for small businesses.