Intent to Award Sole Source - Iconics Maintenance

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Special Notice announcing its intent to award a sole source contract to Systems Group Technologies for ICONICS software maintenance and support services. The contract will support the Component Research Air Facility's operations from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, covering critical SCADA software systems used for turbine engine, advanced propulsion, and fuel technology research programs. The procurement falls under NAICS code 541519 (Other Computer Related Services) and involves a 12-month firm-fixed-price agreement valued under the $34 million size standard. Systems Group Technologies serves as the regional distributor for ICONICS products and has been the established vendor for Wright Patterson Air Force Base since 2007.

The sole source justification is based on the specialized nature of the ICONICS software systems that are integral to daily operations of ten research cells providing simulated flight conditions and process systems data oversight. AFRL determined that replacing the current software would require a complete system overhaul costing at least $100,000, plus additional expenses for infrastructure installation, employee retraining, and potential research delays. The agency is requesting capability statements from potential contractors by September 1, 2025, at 1000 Eastern Time, with responses limited to 10 pages in Microsoft Word format. Interested contractors must provide contact information, business size, socioeconomic status, CAGE/DUNS numbers, and demonstrate how their products meet the specified technical characteristics. While this is a sole source intent, the government will review all responses within six days and retains discretion to compete the requirement if viable alternatives are identified.