WXS-0352 NonComp (004)._Redacted.pdf

This is a Memorandum to the File documenting justification for use of other than full and open competition for a simplified acquisition under the threshold.

The acquisition concerns the purchase of RF and microwave components from K&L Microwave LLC, located at 2250 Northwood Drive, Salisbury, Maryland 21801 (CAGE 50140). The specific items required are a P/N 6IB40-00474 MM Band Pass Filter (QTY 50) to repair EA-18G Fleet assets, along with related services including thermal shock micro-indentation testing and seal microminiatures testing. The depot is unable to meet requirements and provide RFI assets to the fleet, necessitating this procurement. The requirement is expected not to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold.

The contracting officer has determined that only one responsible source is available based on three factors: restrictive proprietary rights (K&L Microwave is the sole source manufacturer and proprietor of the drawings and specifications for the Micro-miniature Band Pass Filter, making alternative sourcing prohibitively expensive and time-consuming); the vendor's established relationship with the AEA WXS division as a reliable supplier of RF and microwave components with prompt turnaround; and mission-critical delivery constraints. Market research indicates the parts have a long lead time with a required delivery date 17 weeks ARO. Development of alternative technology by another manufacturer would take approximately 18 months and impose significant additional validation and qualification costs, while hindering mission readiness by over 18 months. The memorandum was approved by Contracting Officer TOW.JILDA.E on a digitally signed document dated March 11, 2020.